Getting the weight just right is the secret to a fast pinewood derby car. The best weights help you reach the maximum allowed weight, usually 5 ounces, to turn more potential energy into speed. This roundup reviews the top weights that are easy to use, durable, and perfect for fine-tuning your car’s balance.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Weight For A Pinewood Derby Car Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Flexible Stick-On Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3OZ Cuttable Incremental Cylinders, 4-Piece Set
- 2.2 2. Cylindrical Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3.25 Ounce in 4 Sizes with Storage Case
- 2.3 3. Pinewood Derby Car Kit with 3.25OZ Tungsten Weights in 4 Sizes and 0.5OZ Graphite Powder Lubricant
- 2.4 4. Flexible Stick-On Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3OZ Cuttable Incremental Cylinders, 2-Piece Set
- 2.5 5. 30-Piece Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 5.25 Oz in 4 Cylindrical Sizes for Counterweight
- 2.6 6. Flexible Stick-On Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3OZ Cuttable Incremental Cylinders, 3-Piece Set
- 2.7 7. 3.25 OZ Cylindrical Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 14 Pieces in Multiple Incremental Sizes
- 2.8 8. Pinewood Pro Flexible Stick-On Weights for Derby Cars, 3 oz Total Weight, Cuttable with Scissors
- 2.9 9. Pinedash Pro Pinewood Weights Kit with 4OZ Weights in 2 Sizes and 0.5OZ Graphite Lubricant
- 2.10 10. Zhanmai 3.5 Ounce Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars with Incremental Canopy Design
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Weight For A Pinewood Derby Car
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Weight For A Pinewood Derby Car Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Flexible Stick-On Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3OZ Cuttable Incremental Cylinders, 4-Piece Set
This flexible stick-on weight set is a parent’s best friend for pinewood derby. It includes four 3-ounce weights you can cut with scissors, making weight fine-tuning a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Four 3-ounce flexible weights for plenty of adjustment
- ✓ Made from durable composite with steel-like density
- ✓ Easy to cut with scissors for custom shapes
- ✓ Stick-on adhesive for tool-free application
Why We Recommend It
We love how it takes the guesswork out of weighting. The adhesive sticks well, and you can trim bits to hit that exact 5-ounce mark. It’s perfect for last-minute tweaks.
Best For
Best for families who want a simple, no-drill solution that kids can help with. Great for first-time builders.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredibly easy to cut and apply
- Adhesive holds securely on wood
- Flexible material conforms to car curves
- Safe and non-toxic for kids
Cons:
- Adhesive might not withstand very rough handling
- Only comes in 3-ounce strips, so cutting is needed for small adjustments
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Super easy to use, very happy with this purchase. Simply cut and stick. Increased the speed of our car tremendously. Will more then likely buy again this year for our next car.”
Customer Review: “Used these for our Cub Scout derby cars. Stuck on great and was easy to cut down or add when needed to get us as close to the allowed weight as possible. Can’t wait for the next derby races! Go Pack 264!!”
2. Cylindrical Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3.25 Ounce in 4 Sizes with Storage Case
This set gives you precision with cylindrical tungsten weights in four sizes. The included storage case keeps everything organized, which is a big plus for busy race days.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3.25 ounces total weight in four incremental sizes
- ✓ High-density tungsten for compact placement
- ✓ Comes with a handy storage case
- ✓ Smooth, cylindrical design for easy drilling
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its versatility and quality. The weights are precise, and the case means you won’t lose tiny pieces. It’s a solid choice for serious builders.
Best For
Best for scouts and parents who want durable, drill-in weights and appreciate organization. Ideal for multiple car projects.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Accurate weights for fine balance tuning
- Storage case prevents loss and mess
- Durable tungsten material lasts for years
- Multiple sizes offer great flexibility
Cons:
- Requires drilling holes for installation, which needs tools
- Case is small, but weights can roll around if not careful
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently used the 3.25 Ounce Cylindrical Tungsten Weights for my daughter’s Pinewood Derby car, and I couldn’t be happier with the results! These weights are fantastic for achieving that perfect balance and speed. First off, the precision of these weights is unmatched.”
Customer Review: “Nice assortment of metal weights. These were used to build derby cars and worked well. They also came with a handy case for safe-keeping.”
3. Pinewood Derby Car Kit with 3.25OZ Tungsten Weights in 4 Sizes and 0.5OZ Graphite Powder Lubricant
This kit is a fantastic value, bundling weights with graphite lubricant. You get everything needed to weight and lubricate your car for a smooth, fast ride.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14 pieces of tungsten weights in four sizes (3.25 oz total)
- ✓ Includes 0.5 oz graphite powder for wheel lubrication
- ✓ High-quality tungsten for maximum density
- ✓ Perfect for reducing friction and adding weight
Why We Recommend It
It’s a complete package at a great price. The graphite powder is a bonus that can shave seconds off your time. We think it’s a smart buy for any derby family.
Best For
Best for budget-conscious builders who want a full kit without extra trips to the store. Great for first-time racers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with weights and lubricant
- Multiple weight sizes for precise tuning
- Graphite powder improves speed significantly
- Durable materials that last
Cons:
- Graphite can be messy if not applied carefully
- Weights might not be enough for very heavy cars, so check your needs
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Be sure to get a set for each derby car. If you need enough weights, there may not be enough to go around. This set really helped my kid’s derby cars zoom down the rails. One car made it into the finals this year.”
Customer Review: “Love this product for pinewood derby car. They are easy to put into a car and easy to get your car to the right weight. Love these and will buy again for next time.”
4. Flexible Stick-On Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3OZ Cuttable Incremental Cylinders, 2-Piece Set
This two-piece set offers the same flexible stick-on design in a smaller package. It’s ideal if you only need a bit of weight adjustment or are working on a single car.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Two 3-ounce flexible weights for basic tuning
- ✓ Made from steel-density composite material
- ✓ Cuttable with scissors for custom sizes
- ✓ Simple stick-on application
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its simplicity and affordability. If you’re just dipping your toes into pinewood derby, this set gives you the essentials without overcomplicating things.
Best For
Best for solo car projects or as a backup weight set. Great for quick fixes and minor adjustments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to use
- Flexible and cuttable for precise placement
- Adhesive works well on wood surfaces
- Compact set, no waste
Cons:
- Only two pieces, so limited for multiple cars
- May not provide enough weight for some cars, depending on design
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Super easy to use, very happy with this purchase. Simply cut and stick. Increased the speed of our car tremendously. Will more then likely buy again this year for our next car.”
Customer Review: “Used these for our Cub Scout derby cars. Stuck on great and was easy to cut down or add when needed to get us as close to the allowed weight as possible. Can’t wait for the next derby races! Go Pack 264!!”
5. 30-Piece Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 5.25 Oz in 4 Cylindrical Sizes for Counterweight
With 30 pieces and 5.25 ounces total, this set is a powerhouse for weighting multiple cars. It offers plenty of options for fine-tuning balance and speed.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 30 pieces of tungsten weights in four sizes (5.25 oz total)
- ✓ High-density tungsten for reliable performance
- ✓ Cylindrical shapes easy to drill and place
- ✓ Sufficient weight for several cars or heavy adjustments
Why We Recommend It
We love the volume it provides. If you’re building cars for a whole pack or want extra weights for experimentation, this set has you covered. It’s a workhorse.
Best For
Best for scout leaders, families with multiple kids, or anyone who wants a bulk set for future projects. Ideal for serious tuning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large quantity for multiple cars
- Accurate weights in incremental sizes
- Durable tungsten material
- Great value for the amount
Cons:
- No storage case included, so organization is up to you
- Requires drilling, which might be challenging for beginners
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Worked great for childs Boy Scouts derby car race. This set of weights was the best deal I found for the weight considering that 3-3.5 oz tungsten weights are going for similar prices. The total weight ended up being 5.27, so when trying to stay under the 5oz requirement for Derby car racing this is perfect.”
Customer Review: “Product is as described. Perfect 3/8″ sized and easy to use in a derby car. Matched up perfectly with a 3/8″ forstner bit to make the holes.”
6. Flexible Stick-On Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 3OZ Cuttable Incremental Cylinders, 3-Piece Set
This three-piece set strikes a balance between quantity and flexibility. It’s perfect for families who need a bit more weight but still want the ease of stick-on application.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Three 3-ounce flexible weights for ample adjustment
- ✓ Durable, child-safe composite material
- ✓ Cuttable with scissors for custom shapes
- ✓ Designed for kids aged 5-10 to use with supervision
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it because it offers more versatility than the two-piece set. With three weights, you have extra for mistakes or for weighting multiple spots on the car.
Best For
Best for families building one or two cars who want a reliable, easy-to-use weight system. Great for involving kids in the process.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good quantity for the price
- Very easy to cut and apply
- Safe for kids, non-toxic material
- Flexible design fits various car shapes
Cons:
- Adhesive may need reinforcement for very fast tracks
- Weights are not as permanent as drilled-in options
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Super easy to use, very happy with this purchase. Simply cut and stick. Increased the speed of our car tremendously. Will more then likely buy again this year for our next car.”
Customer Review: “Used these for our Cub Scout derby cars. Stuck on great and was easy to cut down or add when needed to get us as close to the allowed weight as possible. Can’t wait for the next derby races! Go Pack 264!!”
7. 3.25 OZ Cylindrical Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars, 14 Pieces in Multiple Incremental Sizes
This set focuses on safety and precision with 14 pieces of high-density tungsten. The cylindrical shapes are smooth and child-safe, making them great for family projects.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14 pieces totaling 3.25 ounces in four sizes
- ✓ Made from 99.95% pure tungsten for high density
- ✓ Smooth, cylindrical edges for safe handling
- ✓ Non-toxic and child-safe
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its purity and safety. The high density means you can add more weight in less space, which is key for speed. It’s a reliable choice for any builder.
Best For
Best for parents who prioritize safety and want premium materials. Ideal for precise weight distribution in the car’s rear.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very high-density material for maximum weight
- Safe for kids with no sharp edges
- Accurate incremental sizing
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Requires drilling for installation, which can be tricky
- No storage case, so pieces need careful handling
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “As a young lad in cub scouts, I like everyone else in my pack, participated in pinewood derby. Also as a young lad, being charged with making a pinewood derby car required some external help aka Dad or other parental figure. So to make a long story short, I stood by and watched as Dad did all the work. Now as a dad, I appreciate these weights for their quality.”
Customer Review: “Works perfect for derby car- my son won 1st place!”
8. Pinewood Pro Flexible Stick-On Weights for Derby Cars, 3 oz Total Weight, Cuttable with Scissors
This Pinewood Pro set is a veteran in the derby world, known for its flexibility and ease of use. The weights are cuttable and can be painted to match your car’s design.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3 ounces total weight in a flexible strip
- ✓ Cuttable with scissors, box cutters, or exacto knives
- ✓ Non-toxic and safe for children
- ✓ Can be painted or camouflaged with stickers
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its proven track record. Many derby veterans swear by it for its versatility. You can even drill into it if needed, making it very adaptable.
Best For
Best for experienced builders who want creative control over weight placement. Great for custom designs and detailed cars.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly customizable with cutting and painting
- Adhesive allows for repositioning during tuning
- Safe and non-toxic material
- Durable enough for multiple uses
Cons:
- Adhesive may weaken over time on rough tracks
- Single strip might require careful cutting for precise weights
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These weights came as described. I attached them to the bottom of our derby car. They can be removed and attached several times on the car until you find your center of gravity sweet spot. They can be cut with scissors, box cutter, or xacto blade. I raced on a rough track and the bump stop at the end was fine.”
Customer Review: “This is a great product. I needed to add some weight to my kid’s pinewood derby car. At first, I was a little skeptical to use anything other than metal weights but I decided to try it out. The weighted strip comes in one piece so you can cut it and size it any way you like. It was very easy to cut and apply.”
9. Pinedash Pro Pinewood Weights Kit with 4OZ Weights in 2 Sizes and 0.5OZ Graphite Lubricant
This Pinedash Pro kit offers a generous 4 ounces of weight plus graphite lubricant. It’s designed for serious speed seekers who want to optimize both weight and friction.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 12 pieces of tungsten weights in two sizes (4 oz total)
- ✓ Includes 0.5 oz graphite powder lubricant
- ✓ High-quality, accurate weights
- ✓ Graphite reduces wheel and axle friction
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its comprehensive approach. The extra weight and lubricant can give your car a competitive edge. It’s a well-thought-out kit for winning races.
Best For
Best for competitive racers and families aiming for top speeds. Ideal for those who want to cover all bases with weight and lubrication.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ample weight for heavy tuning
- Includes graphite for improved performance
- Quality materials ensure durability
- Good value for a complete kit
Cons:
- Graphite application can be messy if not careful
- Weights are in only two sizes, so fine-tuning might be less precise
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I had purchased some stocking holders. Sadly they were light weight plastic and were not strong enough to hold the stockings without tipping over and falling down. Many many years ago I was a Cub Scout leader and remembered the small size of pine wood derby car weights. These worked perfect!”
Customer Review: “This Pinewood racing weight kit is excellent for boosting the speed and performance of your derby car. The 4 oz kit includes 12 weights in two different sizes, making it easy to customize the balance and center of gravity for optimal results. The 0.5 oz graphite powder is great for reducing friction.”
10. Zhanmai 3.5 Ounce Tungsten Weights for Pinewood Derby Cars with Incremental Canopy Design
This single 3.5-ounce tungsten weight features a unique canopy design. It’s perfect for concentrated weight placement, often at the rear, to maximize kinetic energy.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ One 3.5-ounce tungsten canopy weight
- ✓ High-density tungsten alloy for compact mass
- ✓ Smooth, burr-free edges for safe handling
- ✓ Non-toxic and odorless material
Why We Recommend It
We recommend it for its focused weight approach. The canopy design allows for strategic placement, which can really boost speed. It’s a favorite among competitive racers.
Best For
Best for advanced builders who understand weight distribution and want a heavy, single weight for optimal rear placement. Great for speed-focused designs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High density for concentrated weight
- Safe design with no sharp edges
- Canopy shape fits well in car bodies
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Only one piece, so no incremental adjustment
- Requires precise drilling and placement
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My son’s car (with this installed) came in #3 fastest in a pack with 80 car entries (our best result in 4 years of PWD racing). Suspect that the raised and concentrated weight really helped maximize the accumulated kinetic energy that propelled the car down the track. I also canted wheels 2.5 degrees.”
Customer Review: “Using these weights, we won the first price in the council. Thanks a ton. Worked wondered for us”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Weight For A Pinewood Derby Car
Essential Factors We Consider
When picking weights, think about material, weight amount, ease of use, and safety. Tungsten is top-notch because it’s dense, so you can add more weight in less space. Flexible stick-on weights are great for beginners, while cylindrical ones need drilling but are more permanent. Always check your derby rules for the max weight limit, usually 5 ounces.
Budget Planning
You can find good weights for under $10 to $20. Kits with graphite lubricant might cost a bit more but offer better value. Decide based on how many cars you’re building. For one car, a small set works. For a pack, bulk sets save money.
Final Thoughts
Test your car as you add weight. The goal is to hit the limit without going over. Place weight low and at the rear for best speed. With the right weights, you can turn a simple block of wood into a race winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ideal weight for a pinewood derby car?
A: Most races have a maximum of 5 ounces. You want to get as close to this as possible. It gives your car more potential energy to convert into speed.
Q: Can I use multiple types of weights on one car?
A: Yes, you can mix them. Just make sure they’re secure and the total weight is under the limit. Stick-on weights are good for fine-tuning after drilling heavier ones.
Q: How do I attach tungsten weights to my car?
A: For cylindrical weights, drill holes and use epoxy glue. For flexible stick-on weights, just cut and press them on. Always supervise kids with tools.
Q: Are tungsten weights safe for kids?
A: Yes, tungsten is non-toxic. But weights are small, so keep them away from young children to avoid choking. Smooth edges help prevent cuts.
Q: Do I need graphite lubricant with weights?
A: Graphite reduces friction on wheels and axles, which can make your car faster. It’s not required, but it helps. Many kits include it for convenience.
Choosing the best weight for a pinewood derby car can make all the difference on race day. From flexible stick-ons to precise cylindrical sets, our top picks offer something for every builder. Remember to balance your car, test it often, and have fun with the process. The right weights will give you that competitive edge and maybe even a trophy!
Ready to build a winning car? Check out our recommended weights on Amazon and get started on your champion derby car today!
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