Record weight for Garrard 301

I would not be concerned I use a record weight and have no ill effects just better focus and more detail. The concave is rather mild on the Gerrard's and when you listening to both sides it evens out. 

I use a Project record puck (weight) on my Garrard 301, Its a little on the heavy side (1.7 lbs), but seems to work fine with out any issues yet. I was concerned about spindle bearing wear but see no degradation over time and no issues with speed control. At well under $100 its a nice simple weight that has a noticeable improvement in my system and comes in an attractive wood box. 

I'm sure there are better ones out there and I really don't think you need that much weight but it defiantly helps.   

Whatever bend you get will flex right back, unless you heat the record in the oven first. So don't do that.

I've tried several versions of clamps. I prefer clamps by far over weights. But you are right to worry about the platter being dished out. They do that because the label area is thicker. But then if clamped hard enough into the dish it will actually raise up the edge of the record, when what you want is the opposite, pushed down.

The solution is a small o-ring or washer fit over the spindle and thick enough to raise the record just a tiny bit above the platter. Then the clamp will slightly bend the record down onto the platter. Done right not only will the record lay flat it will actually press out and flatten slightly warped records. Or even not so slightly. It all depends on the clamp and the washer.

Mine is custom and you can make one too, or hunt around for one with these important features. Reflex clamps grip any spindle. Threaded clamps if your spindle is threaded. Either one is fine. DYODD.

Mitchell make exactly that clamp Miller, used it for years.
Comes with two different thickness felt washers to place under the record first.
Works a treat and I think was about $45 or so online.
I am still using it now on my 401.