I've never owned the 500, but have shot it multiple times. I looked at it long and hard when I bought my first 460. I took the 460 cause of the versatility (shoots 45lc, 454, and 460). Also, my hunting area offers 200+ yard shots on elk occasionaly, and I didn't want to be wishing I had the ability to take that shot. So I went with the 460.

MOST of the time, my critters are within 50 - 100 yards, but I just KNOW that the first time I leave that 460 Hunter home, Goliath will step out at 175 yards and I'll just have to watch him walk.

Recoil wasn't as intimidating in the 500 as some would have you think. I shot some full house loads, and although you wouldn't want to shoot them all day, they can be shot accurately.