I need to set up a seperate database to use for querys (MIS etc), where i want the second database to be in synch with the master database at all times, from books online i figured i could use either of log shipping or replication but cannot see which one is better suited for this task, if anyone has any pointers on which is the better solution i would appreaciate some direction.

Thanks in advance

Pat,
have a look at the articles section on the site below. I did a comparison
that should help you to decide:
http://www.replicationanswers.com/
HTH,
Paul Ibison