Yeah, they definitely are the best 1/2 ton to tow with! I just can't give up my car for my commute.
You can get a 2004 Ram 2500 5.7 4x4 with 4.10s that is capable of towing almost 11K. That's all I'd need. Then can use it for a 3rd vehicle, move furniture, dump runs, etc. Also can get a F-250 with the 5.4L. or the GM 2500HD with 6.0l. Needs the gears or they can't tow as much as the wife's Armada (9K).