Mountain Biking - bike build up

i have pretty much decided that i want a hardtail because i like to jump, but are hardtails good for drop-offs too? and what are some good hardtails (frames or complete)? and, if someone wouldn't mind, could you make a list of all the things i'd need to build up a multi-speed hardtail if i were to get a frame? thanx

My friends and I do it all on hardtails... jumps, drops, urban, freeride, etc. I really don't feel that 'beat up' at the end of a long ride.

Frames:
On-One Gimp
Surly Instigator
DMR Trailstar
Azonic Steelhead < my pick for a frame

Complete:
Specialized P.series
Giant STP series
Kona Scrap/Shred/Roast/Cowan series
Gary Fisher Mullet/GED/PHD
Cannondale Chase series < my pick for a complete bike

Money wise, you always come out ahead buying a complete bike (even at employee prices), and it seems to be especially true in this "aggro" category of bikes. My coworker priced out a basic Azonic Steelhead build using cheap and used parts, and it cost more than his price on a Cannondale Chase 2, but building can also be a really cool experience.

well, i was thinking a build up 1. because i can buy the parts as i get the money and 2. because that way i can build it to my specs instead of what the company puts on it

what is a good online store for mountain bike parts?

how are the banshee scratch and morphine? i really like the look/price of them

www.pricepoint.com
www.beyondbikes.com
www.jensonusa.com
www.supergo.com
lots of others but those are off the top of my head