Another perspective.
I got out in 2000 because I was tired of the Ops Tempo and QOL at AFSOC and they wouldnt let me leave AFSOC. Back then I got 4 calls for interviews and got hired and took a job at Delta. Now furloughed. STILL furloughed and cannot get a call from SWA, Fed Ex, Airtran etc.
And no..I have no black marks on my record..MOF its spotless. So...it takes time and it's not like the airlines are hiring like gangbusters. I have buds that got out because Air Inc told them theyd get hired in no time. NOT true. One busted the Fed Ex interview - eventually go hired at SWA. The others are still bumming and hoping to get called.
Just wanted to play devil's advocate. Talk tot he res/guard units first. I know tanker units got their hours cut as I work Bus Effort when working man days at HRT. But the MPA money is there for the war. Basic Man Days got cut as did IMA slots all over. Something to think about..if I had to do it all over (and I wanted nothing more than OUT of the AF in 2000)..I would find a job with a decent QOL and take the bonus and stay in. I have no family and am single..but bumming for a year..then working..then being furloughed for 4 is no fun. Again Devil's advocate. Good luck in your search!
PS You might even consider switching airframes in the reserves/guard. Thats almost a year of active duty man days right there for training!