For general hauling duty, the occasional moderate towing job, or parts/engine moving a half ton is sufficient. That said, I'd never own anything smaller than a 3/4 ton. I bought my 94 4WD Dodge Ram 2500 CTD new, and still own it 24 years later. The big difference between mine and any half ton, is a half ton is SUFFICIENT. The 2500 handles hauling with AUTHORITY. The additional weight, power, tires, and suspension make all the difference in the world. It's best defined as getting by because you have to (and I've been there, the previous truck was a nice but lightweight Chevy half ton short bed - got it cheap and had no other choices because I was broke), and doing it right. One panic stop with a bunch of weight on the back of a half ton will make a believer of you. Yes, it's a lot more money for the 3/4 ton but it's a worthwhile investment. I've hauled over 10K with mine, can do 45 up a respectable grade, and get mid-to-upper teens for mileage. And this is all still bone stock. It would do a lot better with some engine and brake upgrades.
