HR trucks

[Brissieboy]

For what it's worth, I reckon you should go for the crash box. If you are going to drive a truck, you will almost certainly come up against a crash box at some stage.
People get scared of the number of gears and the high/low range, but it really isn't rocket science. It will take a bit of practice but it will probably surprise you how easily it come to you.
Your first session(s) should be simple gear changes up and down, up and down, up and down, etc, 3, 4, 5, 6 which is the top 2 in low range then the lower 2 in high range (12 speed road ranger). There is a 'splitter' as well but that is a piece of cake. After some experience out in the real world you will probably do most of your changes without even using the clutch.
And definitely go for HR.
If you get an open licence (not auto only) you will never have to do it again. Upgrading can be done in an auto as you have already proven your ability to handle the crash box.
I have open MC and some years experience up to and including road trains.