My buddy bought a 500 S&W when they first came out. It shot fine w/iron sights but he couldn't get enough elevation w/ a Leupold 2.5-8X to zero it at 50 yards. S&W's answer was to use shims under the base. At those prices you shouldn't have to use shims. He's a devout S&W fan but returned it & went back to his Mod 29. In a revolver go w/the other 2. You get what you pay for & (yes I know I'll take heat for this!) the X frame is ugly.