Kenmore used to have later model 180's on the line when
I got my Comm/ Inst ratings there in 1979, I used to shuffle them back and forth to Bangor Submarine base all the time, having cut my teeth in 180's pre 64's , I hated
Those 2960 Floats, and always felt a early light 180 was
More floated on 2870's in a big wind than a later Heavier models are on 2960's.
It is true that you can get them off light, just about as quick if you want to pop the flaps and basically "Jack it" into the air, not a cool or professional style with passengers on board, that are often afraid of small planes,to begin with.
When PK came out with the 3000 Floats, folks around here could not peal The 2960s off fast enough, the 3000's have WAY more aft floation, flat tops, big hatches, and great performance, without the longer lenght, when heavily loaded aft (all the time in airtaxi)I would vastly rather fly off 3000's... And a good 185 on 3000s is a rocket! Jm2cw