I'd do as mentioned above, and split the difference. Looking for a smoking deal on an older vehicle is most likely going to turn into a smoking bomb. I went thru the same thing as you a few years ago. I started out looking for a real good deal on a used 4x4, the only problem was all the good deals I looked at were very rough, even though the mileage was low. I'd look for a truck that is a nice clean, one owner vehicle, with low mileage, and preferably not off roaded.
In the end I caved, and bought new, as I always try to keep momma happy, and if me driving a new truck is what it takes, who am I to argue
. Choose your battles carefully.