I used the OMM Coldsprings front rack on a recent tour. I didn't use front panniers, but I but all my heavy stuff in a small backpack I attached to the rack platform. My LHT handled great like this and I'll use that system on future tours. In my rear panniers I carried light but bulky stuff like sleeping bag & clothes. My tent went on top of my rear panniers.
The QR skewer attachment is a bit more of a PITA than a standard front rack, but the whole OMM rack is totally bomber and I would not have any worries that it would break - except in a crash.
Surly makes a front rack that is really cool, but I lifted one at my LBS and that sucker is heavy. If you are going to run heavily loaded front panniers that might be worth looking into, but if not I wouldn't bother.