well, one thing for sure, and that's going to EBay to buy used, and it will probably be a beam scale. most likely an electronic in the future. i spent a little time on EBay looking at scales and am hoping to keep my cost < 50% of new. 25% would be better, but that may take more patience than i've got.

i appreciate the input.....alot of different ideas. i had no reference point to start so every suggestion has value.