They are a pretty good rifle for the money. The ones that use rimmed cases are pretty reliable and accurate guns. I thought about the 500 S&W but I already have that rifle in 45-70 so there would be very to gain. I may still get the urge to try one. The ones who have reported on them don't seem to be getting much gain in velocity with the longer barrel. If this is the case, the 45-70 would probably perform better. IMO.