I would check raise an aggressive player. I would lead out into a less tricky player. The check raise cost more, and sometimes I find it unnecessary if your opponent isn't likely to make you think.

You really do have to check raise an aggressive player however. Otherwise they don't respect you out of position and give you tough decisions on late streets.

My standard play is to bet out. I'm not saying it's right, but it works for me because I usually find out all I need to know against typical opponents. If I get raised I fold. If I get called I bet the same on the turn unless I can put my opponent on a draw. If I get raised at any point I'm done. otherwise it's a cheap enough showdown.

I haven't put my finger on it yet, but something about check raising a bad kicker makes me uncomfortable.