Sliders or lift first?

Both are pretty important... it really depends on where you're going.

My advice -- do BOTH.
If you really need to space it out (which is fine, plenty of us here do) then I'd consider:

- Get a lift and steel nerf bars simultaneously
- Upgrade to frame sliders when need/desire/ability arise

My nerfs I got for like $250 or something?
https://www.amazon.com/2005-2019-Multi-layer-Slip-proof-Corrosion-Protection/dp/B07G4G85NB

You can't hi-lift off of them and they are substantially less burly than actual frame sliders.
But they do the trick for 75-80% of stuff at a fraction of the cost.

I'm actually upgrading to RCI frame sliders hopefully next week.
I'd sell you my nerfs for like $100 - $125 or so (assuming you have a double-cab short bed)

One side has a couple nerf dents -- but they still slide me around trees and rocks just fine

And they'd do the trick for decent protection until you're ready for frame sliders.

 

Anyone have pictures of metal tech sliders? Trying to decide between RCI or metal tech sliders

 

I will said as the min. do a lift and slider at the same time if you can. Lift will get you more clearance to not damage the undercarriage, slider will protect the side... skid plate can come later, your stock splash guard can take some beating as long at it not a hard drop..

 

I wouldn't get nerf bars if you're actually planning on going wheeling in western wa. They're glorified steps that can smash into your cab from hard hits. I got my 4x innovation sliders (weld on) shipped for 280. Buy once, cry once.

 

Yeah -- if you are doing anything regularly. Actual sliders are the way to go.
Nerf bars will get you by for light stuff, but you could totally crush them into a door if you aren't careful.