First-rate Levers The fulcrum of a first-rate lever is placed between the load and the effort. When the fulcrum is closer to the load, it requires less effort to move the weight a shorter distance. If the fulcrum is closer to the effort, it will take more effort to move the load a larger distance. First-rate levers are used for weights up to about 10 pounds (4.5 kg). Beyond that size, second-rate levers are needed. Second-rate levers have their fulcrums farther away from the load, so they are suitable for handling weights up to about 50 pounds (22.7 kg). Third-rate levers are used for weights over 50 pounds (22.7 kg). The fulcrum of a third-rate lever is usually located somewhere on the bar itself. Fourth-rate levers have their fulcrams all the way on the end of the bar beyond the handle. They are used for handling extremely heavy loads. Fourth-rate levers are not used very often in real life because it is difficult to find a bar big enough to hold such a heavy weight! Fifth-rate levers have fulcra in between the handle and the end of the bar. They are useful when you need to lift a light load far away from your body.