Opinions Wanted - Arrow, Archer, 182, 177RG, Early 210's

You'll probably be happy with any of the few you've narrowed it down to.
Everyone's 'mission' is different. Mine was load hauling and roominess. I
had more time in Arrows/Archers/Warriors than 177/182 by a longshot. I was
leaning towards that. After a trip with the wife and two kids in a C182,
then an Arrow, wife demanded I get a C182. I gladly obliged. After lots of
long trips loaded to the max, we are extremely happy with the airplane. It
has way outperformed beyond my expectations. A surprise was it's
willingness to get into the flight levels when I wanted it to, no small
issue living near the Rockies.

I really like the Cardinals, especially the RG's, and almost got one. Just
too underpowered and not as versatile as the Skylane. I hear it's more like
a car and the Skylane is more like a truck, but it works for us either way.

The Pipers mentioned above are cramped by comparison, and of course the one
door, don't really care for that. Especially when I had a small engine fire
and had to get out quick to put it out. I can't imagine doing it as quickly
in a Cherokee as I did in my airplane with minimal ($3 scat hose) damage.

The passing scenery keeps the kids better occupied with the high-wing, you
can camp under it, you can see your wheels in flight, you can avoid getting
soaked in the rain, on and on.

But like I said it's all up to what's important to YOU, none of the above
may matter. If it's all speed and sexiness, Skylane may not be for you.
But you could skydive out of it easier than a Cherokee.

Chris