A balance with a weighing range between 9 and 24 kg has been tested. The use of radiation resistant sensing devices makes it acceptable for use in hot cell applications. With an unrefined read‐out method the system sensitivity, including resolution of chart reading by eye, at 65% confidence limits is ±10 g in 2.5‐kg intervals. Over the entire 9 to 24 kg range the linearity of the system is such that the sensitivity is reduced to ±17 g. It is predicted that digital indication of weight and use of a low inertia, low friction indicating system will double the system sensitivity.