well with any quality bumper the idea is solid tow points and tied in for additional reinforcements around the steering box as the other side stiff up the front Crossmember creating a sub frame of sorts. Again helpful and useful be it a deer or rear or tree in your grill nice to have extra protection for your safety as well as the heart of the ol girl. Also if get stuck if ever, you are sure to have a solid connection to unibody frame and be sure to get yanked out with your bumper stickers π.
Now a bull guard i used one from a fullsize truck, used and freely sourced as much of items i aquire in life. And made it work with some grinder work and nuts and bolts. I wish I could weld but now adays I'm very appreciative of my friends that can and are willing to help me out. But futher on went after market bumper and that wp warriors is fairly priced and decent quality and a light duty bumper for a simple design that gives solid points and great for i think your after. And i kept skid as nice to have protection, as dad has always reminded me , the air dam can be kept with it just needs some finesse to fit and you can clearenceclearance the bumper vs your fenders. Jcr offroad has good options and as stated a local fab shop be better priced then you might think as you are getting custom superstar work done and be money well spent.
Decision decisions π€ π