The vikings used scales and weights in the trade and barter precious metals. There are a good number of different historical versions of such scales that have been found, many of which fold for compactness and several of which also still have carrying cases of different shapes. Below are some photos of a set of scales with a case found in Gotland.

Here is another set I found a couple of images of on a Russian language forum, but which don’t have any other details about. The case is very similar in shape, to the one above, but decorated more simply.

I decided to make a set inspired by these two designs. Sir Aelric Kyrri leant me a set of scales he owns which helped greatly in getting a better understanding the functioning and size of the pieces. Reading about it is fine, but having something mechanical to handle makes it easier. Below are some photos of my scales in process as well as the final scale set with case. The scales and case are made from 18 & 16 gauge red brass and 4mm brass rod.

I also added a belt loop and hook to attach to my belt and match my knife.