Do we need a balance instead of a scale if SHITF?

I have been thinking that a Balance an some Gram weights an what we have as Known good coins or rounds could be used as check on fake coins or short wgt. If we have a EMT event would it be better to already have this available. At the Tucson Rock an Gem show I saw some Antique balances an they varied from $25.00 to $1200.00, Or because of cheep Scales are they not used
an not even available??
