Kodiak, judging by the aircraft types you've flown, I have a feeling the Van's I've flown are the same ones you're flying.

I have about 400 hours in the plane and think it's a damn fine airplane. Yes, it's quite underpowered for the weight it can carry. In ice, you simply don't have as much time to formulate a plan as in other aircraft. I've carried a ton of ice in the bird and have only had two experiences where I reached 120kts while still picking up ice and only climbing at 100fpm. The only flight I ever canceled was due to freezing rain and maxing out my duty time. I think it's a solid platform with all the tools necessary to get the job done.

Granted, I never had one flame out on me, although I know others have, and if I had I would probably feel different about the airplane. But, as it is, I look back on my time flying the Caravan fondly.