[qcj]

Mike you do have to worry about leaves and sticks without slide toppers. With toppers leaves and sticks can get under the topper just the same.  The problem is with topper when you put the slide in the leaves do not have any place to go.  Without toppers the brush that is around the slide pushes them off.  Without topper I've found out it is much easier to clean the top of the slide.  When I get home I put the slide out and am able to clean any dirt off the top without any problem.  I often polish the top with Wash and Wax.  I have had both and I like no toppers.