conversion
 

I am currently in the process of converting my 06 hardrock 8 speed sram shifter system to shimano altus system w/rapid fire shifters 6 speed. Any experience or comments?

Why? Sounds like a downgrade.

these srams are sloppy and not quick.

Altus is one of Shimano's lowest line components. Consider LX.

I'm starting to dislike my srams as well, but I would upgrade to X7's before going back to a system I had on my hardware store boat anchor.

It would be like putting spinner hubcaps on a Porsche.