thanks for all the input guys, the reason i was considering the giant is because i love my LBS the guys are great and support is exceptional, i do most of my own work but when you have a warranty and service help it means a lot. so far the only down side to the in question is perhaps the weight. but at my budget for entry level i guess that's what i'm looking at no matter the brand.
mtn bike are not real big here so the used market is limited. perhaps if i wait a while maybe someone is getting a new bike for christmas and i can find a deal.