We have ran detroits, lock-rites, aussies and welded all in front and rear applications over the years.  After much messing around and driving a ton of road miles, winter and summer our favorite setup is a welded rear and an aussie up front. 

Welded rear handling is way more predictable than an auto locker and the aussie is the smoothest of the bunch in the front end. 

Yes you can hang the rear end out on road ice with the welded rear if you try but when you let off it snaps right back.  Quite controllable if you understand how to drive it.

For me, selectables are just too much coin.  I too have wheeled with guys with ARBs and even the OX locker.  I've seen both become permenently unlocked half way into a trail ride.  I know a bunch of guys do great with them but in my experience if it can fail/come un-locked it will, and at the worst possible time.  I choose simplicity!