Not sure on the cost of a good set of snow chains but a set of studded snow tires for a Sentra can't be too much money. I know you said you get 4-6 snow days a year, but keep in mind they are good for ice as much as snow. I'm not sure how many times you get iced over roads down there in WV.

I'd buy regular all seasons and run with it. Drive accordingly and you won't have to worry.

Yeah. Isn't it kind of going to be a waste of money to get studs or chains? I think we have some of the worst driving conditions (besides the mountains) and I have never driven a car with snow tires even.

On topic though, aren't you limited on how fast you can go with chains. I thought I heard lie 25 MPH or something ridiculous like that....

I've used studs a lot in states where they were legal, and they definitely give you a big, big advantage for traction and braking. I found no technical disadvantages in having them.

Considerations:

-- You must stud all four tires for fwd cars, or your back end can swing around when braking

-- you will have to (or want to) change all 4 over for summer season.

-- you will not be able to drive into neighboring states that don't allow them, while you have them on.

-- cost, of course

Chains are a hassle and are generally only used temporarily for mountain passes, or if you actually live in tough mountain situations (which may apply to you, I don't know)

Alternatively, there are great snow/ice tires out now, but the best ones, you still pretty much have to take off in the spring or else the soft compound wears very fast. And they will be more expensive than studding an economical all-weather tire for your Nissan.

(BTW, "Two Bonnies" is not being a "wuss" about this. West Virginia is about the last place in the nation I would want to be caught in a bad snow storm)

i'd just go with good snows or all seasons for the amout of snow you get, but where i work, studs are just $15-20 extra a tire. i run studdeds and love them, but we also have much more snow days then you, i haven't been close to being stuck yet (knock on wood) and i have a very steep driveway. and a long drive to work.

Well, if you're still undecided, Tire Rack (tirerack.com) has reviews and opinions about all types of tires. You can sort by car make and model, tire type, tire make, etc. There are no doubt other websites.

One thing I've done frequently is locate a local tire/brake/suspension shop with a good reputation and see what they're putting on their own (and their spouse'*) sedans. If you can find a real candid and experienced guy (or gal), you can end up with a very good tire at a reasonable price. Often times they will be ones you've never heard of before, but if you've got a good local shop, they'll back you up.

Chains would give you the option to run with or without them more easily than changing out studded tires. If you do go with studs, be careful on blacktopped driveways not to leave gouges when braking or taking off. (my son'* friend left me nice marks on my driveway... )