I own a 500 and I think they are fine guns. Like you said they are a little cheaper than the 870s. Check out the 535s before you buy a 500. They are the same gun only you can shoot 3.5inch shells and they aren't that much more. You may not need or want the 3.5 inch chamber now, but down the road you may want the added versatility. Good luck picking out a gun that suits you.