Sean, I ran 31k on the stock ATs. Offroad everywhere around here except Pismo, 21psi was PERFECT. I had never poped a bead nor a cut, nor even a flat for that matter
. Imho your sidewall cut was bad luck.
I ugraded to 37"MTR -- and THEY SUCK!!
.. at least on H2s
. Those tire guys are right. For our terrain, the BFG ATs are top of the line -- though I would get them in 37"..