RE: Do I need this stuff?
1. YES
2. YES
Do you have any idea how many airplanes I have seen get crashed on the first flight due to improper CG and/or control throws?
The guys who say you don't need a balancer or a deflection gauge may know more than others. And just like him I can eyeball everything from my 48" Hangar 9 Tribute 36 to my 106" Extra 330 in terms of throws. CG I ALWAYSmeasure, and check it about 10 times. Do I need a balancer? Nope, but it gives you the knowledge and experience to balance an airplane properly and set the throws accurately according to the manufacturers specs.
Ever hear the term "It flew right off the table"? That is because it was set-up properly before flying. I rarely need more than click or two of trim on my maidens. But I also set then up as perfectly as I can and I use all those fancy little tools.