I have towed and used both 5th wheel and hitch. I curently own a hitch tow trailer. Pros and cons to both. A 5th wheel does handle the weight more balanced and seams to tow more stable and straight with less side to side whip when a ratical lane change or manover is required. Also it is easy to back them up into a spot. Also the 5th wheel is a bit expensive to have the box hitch and brake system installed,you also lose your truck box area with the hitch in place and then have a lot less room for camping goods and storage room........With the ball hitch you MUST use equalizer bars and electric trailer brakes!!! Another good safety item is an anti sway bar which seams to be a needed for some trailers,and mine is one of them. It prevents side to side whip in strong winds or lane change or when a large vehicle passes by. Id go with an ultra lite unit either way with a 1/2 ton truck. I have a 1/2 ton truck as well and my trailer weighs 4000 lbs empty...so about 5000 lbs loaded with water and camping goods.( BEER) My tow capacity is only 7500lbs. Hope this helps,any other question feel free to pm me,i have done lots of towing and drive large trucks for a living.