Due to its high density and weight, tungsten is commonly used as a counterweight metal. Its properties make it ideal for applications requiring compact and heavy-duty counterweights. However, depending on the specific requirements of the application, other metals such as lead, steel, and sometimes even depleted uranium can be used as counterweights. Each metal has its own advantages and considerations, and the choice of counterweight metal depends on factors such as density, cost, safety, and environmental impact.

Tungsten is used in counterweights due to its high density and heavy weight. Tungsten has a density of 19.25 g/cm3, which is significantly higher than other commonly used metals such as lead or steel. This means that a smaller volume of tungsten can provide the same weight as a larger volume of other materials.

The use of tungsten in counterweights allows for more compact, space-saving designs, especially in applications where weight distribution is critical. Additionally, tungsten is non-toxic and has a high melting point, making it a safe and durable choice for counterweight applications.

Due to its unique properties, tungsten is often considered better than steel in certain applications. Here are some reasons why tungsten may be better than steel in certain situations:

1. Density: Tungsten has a much higher density than steel, making it ideal for applications that require high quality in a small volume. This is especially useful where a compact and heavy counterweight is required.

2. Hardness: The hardness of tungsten is significantly higher than steel, which makes it more resistant to wear, scratches and deformation. This property is advantageous in applications such as cutting tools, armor-piercing ammunition and high-temperature environments.

3. High temperature resistance: The melting point of tungsten is very high, much higher than that of steel. This makes it suitable for use in applications where high temperature exposure is a consideration, such as aerospace and military applications.

4. Non-toxic: Tungsten is non-toxic, unlike some types of steel alloys that may contain elements that are harmful to health and the environment.

However, it is worth noting that steel also has its own advantages, such as its versatility, ductility, and lower cost compared to tungsten. The choice between tungsten and steel depends on the specific requirements of the application and the performance required for a given use case.