What types of scales are best?? Are certain brands better or more durable than other??

I like tripod hanging scales. I don't have one, but I have used lots of other guys, and they are great.

Really depends on your budget. If you will tell us what you wanna spend, we can probably point you in the right direction.

Dont even know what they run, but to start off probably aroun 30-40$. Cant afford to much at the moment but need something for all these buffs im catching! ;-)

Accuracy is important. A lot of carp fishermen use Reuben Heaton as they are a very trusted company in Europe in the carp fishing scene(I also prefer spring instead of digital so you aren't dependent on batteries). I have heard that berkley and rapala scales can be inaccurate but those could just be the low end ones.

For starters, you can weigh fish in a sling with just about any handheld scales. They may not be certified to submit for records, but they will give you accurate enough readings(within half an ounce or so I'd say). But the sling is really the most important part for weighing them.

Yes if you have the money and want the best and most accurate scales, spring (no pun intended) for a good quality spring dial scale. A Reuben Heaton will run you upwards of 100 dollars.

If you don't care about pinpoint accuracy and registering lake/state records then a 50lb. Rapala or Berkley digital will suffice in your price range. I have the 50lb. Rapala and have tested it against certified scales a few times at weights ranging from 10lbs. to 25lbs. and it's always been within a couple of ounces. Not sure how it compares with a heavier weight though.

Thanks guys! I think ive got a digital one somewhere in storage that can hold me over till i can get GOOD one! seeing how im getting really addicted to these amazing sport fish!! lol It feeds both my relaxation off from work and my natural competitiveness.