I use a RCBS "Tru-Weight Sports Scale" trigger pull scale that is essentially the scale sold to the military. Marked in Kg and pounds; goes to about 11 Kg (25 pounds).
About $40.
A cheap way is to use a plastic gallon milk jug with water. 16oz water equals one pound, so you can go up a bit over eight pounds. Use dental floss wrapped around the trigger through the jug handle, point the gun upwards and lift. Add water until the trigger cycles.
What kind of "way out?" I use a Lyman electronic scale now, but have had good luck with my old RCBS, also. You have to be careful with either type, to avoid any binding points between scale and gun, drag on the cylinder, etc.
Well it's probably from me not taking the time to secure the gun well. I'll set it up useing the vise and see what I get. I all ways found that when I got the S/A/ to what I wanted the D/A was alot better also and I didn't bother to measure it. Thanks!
Tom
Measuring a heavy DA trigger is pretty problematic. Where you put the the gauge on the trigger (high, low) and whether you pull straight back makes a big difference. You also need to pull down a little and not just horizontally to get the lightest most realistic reading. Having something to hold the gun steady does help.
I am cheap!! (thrifty??) I use a fish weighing spring scale. I get consistant readings. They are probably not as accurate as other systems, but it is close enough for me.