For a buck, get the stainless. Stays cleaner, won't oxidize, stronger, JMO.
Through bolt it where possible, with large washers or backup plates. Moo had one and the mounts kept coming loose even though I've only run the bimini I think twice. Mounts are loose now, and it hasn't been on since last august.
Never gonna be on her again, but dunno what I'm gonna do with it either. It is blue, obviously doesn't match the boat anyway.
Ray