Give me some real world observations - OME 885/Dakar mediums

So, I'm in the process of selling off my first gen and building up my second gen. I had 880's on the first gen with light duty Dakars and it was a great setup for me, went anywhere. I got about 2.5" or 3" of lift and some rake from back to front with that setup and would like about the same with the new(er) truck. Both are V6 access cabs, FYI.

Theoretically, 885's should get me 2.5" inches, right? But is that actually the case? The 880's were supposed to be a raise of about 1.75" to 2.25", but I definitely got more, so that's what's got me wondering.

I have no plans to add bumpers or a winch (I say that now...) but will be adding skids for sure. I also want to add a bed rack at some point (and I'm debating sliders, not sure yet). So, would it be smarter to go with the medium duty Dakars to account for the extra weight? Even if I'm not going to be adding it for a while? I don't want to end up with crazy rake, but some is OK. A firm ride is OK with me, if that's the worst of it.

If you've run 885's and the mediums, holler at me and let me know what kind of lift you got. Thanks!