I can barely do the barbell by itself, much less with plates added on. It just doesn't feel right to me in that position.

The reason I wanted to do a front squat variation is because an old single strap backpack I used to use gave me back/shoulder soreness, which made is next to possible for me to put the barbell on my back comfortably. I don't have that issues anymore and physically, I could go back to back squats if I wanted to, but I love the fact I can actually look at the barbell as I lift it and carry it rather than somewhat blindly placing the barbell behind my back with back squats. It just feels a lot more comfortable and natural to squat the barbell in that position. Granted, I can't lift as heavy since the majority of the weight is in my forearms, but I prefer that position nonetheless.