Abstract: A load cell including a unitary measuring body having circular end portions and an intermediate portion which defines a central axis corresponding to the direction of an applied load, the intermediate portion having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape to provide a pair of oppositely disposed side faces, each of the side faces having a recess with a central web therebetween and a plurality of bores extending transversely through the central web together with a plurality of strain gauges on opposite sides of the central web within the recesses responsive to the shear strain induced in the measuring body by an applied load.