I think for 500 you should be able to get a nice ML easily. Unless you want top of the line with an expensive scope. I would stay away from the ones that come packaged with a scope. The scope will most likely not be very good.

I agree, check your regs to see what is legal. If you can use an inline I would look for a mid priced one in 50 cal. Knights are pretty good, as are the omega's. I also like the break open designs like H&R's and simular. Also if you have a mossberg 500 or a H&R/Nef you can get barrels to fit them.

Then if you can use a scope in your area top it off with a bushnell Trophy series or something simular. More expensive if you can afford it.

Paul