There are a lot of halfton diesels coming out very soon. It might be worth the wait to get one of those.
You mentioned the Ford was a no go because of gun mounting. Is there not an alternative mounting method? Perhaps pull the fuse for the side curtain airbags? Seems like a very small reason to rule out a very popular brand. Also I think you can get an F150 with a rear E-locker.
I'm more of a GMC guy myself (New Chevy's are hideous), but in a half ton, non diesel platform i'd take a F150 over a Dodge I think.
I'd probably do a truck with a Camper shell on the back if I had to pick something based off your parameters.