RE: 500 vs. 870
I'm not sure about the rifled barrel. But as for the difference between shotguns, there is no comparison. Both models have there fans but for me it has to be the 870. The 500 to me feels like a club. But that's how a shotgun should be selected - on 'feel' to the one who is going to use it. If the 500 better to you then by all means get it.