Another use that was mentioned by Mel Wade (Off Road Evolution) is they protect the radiator from damage during a roll over so you can get off the trail.

 

Exactly why I just ordered the PUREJEEP grill guard/bumper, which just happens to have a stinger. We have herds of the things running around, and my front engine pulleys set about 1/2" from the fan shroud.

It could get expensive to hit one.

I get to thinking about that every time I brake for the deer shooting out of the corn/wheat fields.

 

show some pics once you get it installed

 

Now that I just figured how to upload my very first picture, I will. It won't look as cool as that pic though, since my Jeep still has the stock fenders/tires.