What’s the internal rim width on your wheels? I wouldn’t go with a 2.6" tire up front unless your running 30mm internal width or wider wheels.
FWIW, a lot of people don’t like the Ardent and find it to feel a little sketchy, so if you aren’t digging it, you certainly wouldn’t be alone. It might be more aggressive tread than you’re looking for up front, but I really like the Maxxis Rekon (Front)/Ikon (Rear) combo. I primarily ride the Front Range in Colorado, so dry with lots of kitty litter. Honestly though, if you like the Mezcals on your other bike for the terrain you ride, it seems reasonable to me to try them on the Scalpel.