I've pulled my 5er with a slider hitch since '03, but have never utilized the slider option. Also, I have a short box Chevy. My newer 5er is sculptured in the front corners which help those tight turns, but my older Cardinal didn't have that and I still didn't need the slider.
I'm not of the opinion that the more expensive brand names insure you a better, safer ride. A average to good 5er hitch will be fine. I don't think there is a big difference in these types of hitches compared to TT hitches where you can really notice some differences. My old Huskey has been excellent for 14 years and is easy to take off and put back on. I've pulled a 5er for well more than 50K miles with my hitch west to the Rockies, east to Maine, south to the Keys, and north into Canada.
For your own peace of mind get a good slider hitch. Then you won't be wondering whether you needed one. And if, in the future, you rub the tow vehicle with your 5er you're going to know for sure that you should have gotten one.
