What's the best brands of longboards?

Give me various names and styles of decks that would work for what I'm doing. (drop deck, pintail, etc.) I'll be using it for going around town with my friends, some hills and I want something that rides smooth and stable but able to withstand carving. Also, I'd like to know what kind of trucks, wheels, etc. are good or if I should just buy a complete, preembled board. I'd like to know what the sizes and types of trucks and wheels have to do with the board. ALSO, if you could give me some pointers, that would be cool. Much love.