RE: What type of scale to buy?
I have an electronic balance that I got for free when it was pitched out at work because it would not calibrate. Beyond that it works just fine. It has a maximum capacity of 3000 grams (about 6.6 pounds). Although I cannot weigh complete airplanes I can weigh large pieces like wings, fuselages, and engines. Then I add 'em up to get the total. I actually use it more often for small amounts. It will weigh to 0.01 gram. I weigh out small amounts of epoxy, search for lightweight balsa, and weigh lead shot for balast. For me, smaller capacity and more sensitivity are more valuable.
Chuck