I could use a fork to help build up my rockhopper while turning my older diamondback into a usable xc bike. Nashbar has their sale going and it is bringing some forks into an acceptable range for me. I am 215 or so, lifter type who has more desire than finesse. I am looking for a more all mountain type fork, and to be honest, the manitou axel that came standard really does not give me any issues that I notice, but I have nothing to compare it too. So, your advice on best for the money at:

https://www.nashbar.com/results.cfm?c...it=y&pagename=

Answer/Manitou Splice Super SMU 100-130mm Fork
Marzocchi MX Comp ETA
Answer/Manitou Splice Super SMU 100-130mm
Answer Manitou Axel Elite ’05

Was looking closest at these four, but really just seeig if the sale was worth taking advantage of.
Oh, take 35% off of the listed price. Thanks

Of those the only one I like is the mx comp. Splice has a bad rep and I don't know much about the axel. The mx is solid and the eta is nice to have if you do trails.

In all cases you will have to spend more money on the extra stiff spring. You are over their 'min' limit.

Go for the Marzocchi

OK Marzocci seems the favorite so far. Here is another question.
Should I ignore the Nashbar sale and consider just getting a firm ride kit for the manitou axel comp that came stock on my bike and get a rigid non suspension front fork for the diamondback? It is 6061 aluminum with oversized tubing and butted. Will a rigid fork put more stress on the bike than a suspension fork? I figured that 214 for the Marzocci was a good deal but getting it just because it is on sale might do irreparable damage to my chromosones. Oh, the diamondback came with a suntour fork that is leaking fluid now. Would like to turn it into a commuter that all I have to do is change tires to take it off road.