I started reloading with a beam scale (RCBS 5-0-5). While it does a great job and is plenty reliable, weighing powder with a beam scale is the SLOWEST part of the whole process. You will instantly realize a huge savings in time by using a Chargemaster, and your rifle ammo will still be plenty accurate.
For pistol, if you have a powder thrower and can use the scale to set it up, it should throw powder accurately enough for plinking ammo. You can also use the thrower to under-throw a charge into the pan, so you only have to trickle up a small amount to save time.
Having said that, I don't currently have a proper bench, or anywhere to set up the thrower for use, and if I had to weigh each charge on a beam scale, especially for high-volume use like pistol cartridges, I would probably go insane.
If you're a low-volume reloader, and only shoot very occassionaly, a beam scale will serve your purposes fine. Any more than that, and you will quickly outgrow it.
Oh, and x2 on ordering it from Natchezss. Best price going, probably in North America without living in the US.