Mountain Biking - Frame opinions Surly Vs. Fisher

Okay I am looking for a real SS MTB. My 04 Hardrock SS needs more maintenance than my Homegrown (or even the old 78 Chevy Nova I used to own). I am looking for a SS ride again. I am looking at building up either a Surly 1X1 or Karate Monkey. Last night I found out that the LBS could get me on a Fisher Rig.

I am looking for something that will last, and not look too bling bling. When my fiance gets done with school, I am going back to finally get a degree. So I need something that will last. You comments and suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Very different animals...one is lightweight alu, the other is steel designed more for strength than ultimate light weight. Your LBS can get you the Surly too, I'll pretty much guarantee that. Of the two you listed, the Surly is indestructable and certainly not blingy.
Bianchi has a nice lightweight steel bike, the SASS (chrome), and also an aluminum version comparable in spec to the Rig, the GUSS. Redline and many other companies also offer steel SS models that would do it for you.

I have both, a Surly Instigator and a GF Tarpon. The geometry is very weird on the GF, can't explain it. The surly is an undestructable beast, it is by far the best bike I have ever been on. Like they say, "Steel is real." The Surly feels so much better when riding and is basically a more comfortable bike. I would go with the Surly.

Geometry on the Tarpon is entirely different from that on the Rig, not to mention the quality of the frame. Bikes below the Wahoo bikes don't get the Genesis geometry.

Ahhh, didn't know that. I still think the Instigator feels totally different, of course could be from it's a LITTLE different from the GF. :)

We just built up a few 1x1's at my shop, They rock. I used to have 2 Instigators, they were heavy, but indestructable. the 1x1 is quite a bit lighter. If you build it right you could make it under 20lbs.