lam,
sounds like you found the companion "belt" gun to the Encore. I've got one and love it. It is a bit on the heavy side for carrying (hiking)up and down the mountains all day; however, you will appreciate the extra weight when you touch it off. The 500s are like the 44s used to be, every "TV/ arm chair cowboy" had to have one, got one, couldn't shoot it for sh......, and are selling them for a song. This is gun for "us", gun nut types. The price is good with all the goodies! See Gregg R's photos on the site, with the 3" 500 he had. The group is excellent. I think Greg has since sold it.
Doc