I had the ARB on the previous Jeep and moved it to the current one.
AFAIK, the ARB is the only after market bumper that's tested for proper folding in an accident. Wisely designed and very well finished.
Then, I replaced it with the Smitty built, to get the extra approach angle at the corners...

 

I run a full-width Warn winch bumper in the front. It is a heavy, over-built beast. I'm more interested in it pushed through things than folding. I've used it in some pretty intense rock gardens and the only damage I've gotten is I pushed in the metal behind the driver's side tow ring a little bit, pushing against a big boulder.

 

The ARB won't bend easily, it's pretty strong. It would take a serious hit to cause damage. There also are 2 collapse sections in front of the frame, behind the bumper.

 

I can attest to that. I had the bull bar on my KJ and a carpet installer in front of me lost a roll of waste. Hit it at 70 on the highway and figured it was going to be all jacked up but when I pulled over there was only a scuff that came out with some compound. They are well worth the money!

 

Just installed the new Rugged Ridge EXO top on my 2 door. I'll be sure to update this post with a link to my review and write up soon.

 

Well, blew the pinion gear on my rear axle. Had strange sound during Monday morning regimen (Denny's, commissary, base gas station, class six store), so tore into Jeep. Very knowledgeable friend dropped by late today and helped me isolate problem. Rebuilding rear diff is in my near-term future. He could help me do it, but he's super busy with his business. So I'll hire a pro.

 

I'm sure you won't let it slow you down Mark!

 

My rig is pretty well set for now. I would like to do some interior work so there is better organization on long trips. I'm also thinking that when these mud terrains wear out I'll step up to 33's. But for now with the leveling lift she still fits in the garage so I'm not in a rush. Not sure what is next except maybe for some lights on the bull bar. So far this beauty has tackled everything I've thrown at her. So happy with this rig. Was a stock Sahara when I started! I run without the backseat for overlanding but I also have a little one which precludes me from ditching it on a more permanent basis as she loves to take rides in the Jeep Jeep!

 

Nice looking rig, I'm working the same angle as you are. Just a lot slower... Lol How long has it taken you to build up to this stage?

 

You will be soooo happy once you do. No more pulling stuff out to get at something on the bottom, etc.