Okay, I think I have a plan worked out in my mind. I already have the supports set 26" apart with a central post that I can measure off of. I made a two pound weight with a mason jar filled with pennies and dimes, that I attached a hook to. I also have a set of vernier calipers with a digital display and tare setting that I can use to measure the deflection precisely. I'll try to post some pics this weekend when I get it all assembled.