Tungsten weights are a perfect way to put a large amount of weight into a small space. Why is this? Because tungsten is a very dense metal. In fact, it is one of the top 10 densest metals know. Due to this unique physical quality, a pinewood derby car builder can place a much larger amount of weight in a very precise place. Here are a few more interesting facts about tungsten. It's almost as dense as gold (19.3 g/cm2 vs. 19.25 g/cm2). It was discovered in 1781. It has the highest melting point of all metals in pure form - 6,192 degrees. It is also used for durable mens tungsten wedding bands. Tungsten is about 1.7 times the density of lead.