Abstract: A shear beam load cell comprising a cantilevered beam member having a free end weigh section for receiving a load force to be measured, a mounting section for securing the beam member, and recesses formed in opposing sides of the cantilevered beam free end weigh section for defining an unsymmetrical I-shaped cross-section. The recesses have dimensions such that one of the recesses has its bottom wall surface insensitive to torsion. In one embodiment, the recess with the bottom surface insensitive to torsion has a depth longer than the other recess. In another embodiment, the recess with the bottom surface insensitive to torsion has a height shorter than the other recess. A strain gage sensing device is positioned in that one recess on that bottom wall surface insensitive to torsion for measuring the shear strain corresponding to the load force applied to the free end weigh section of the beam member.