I voted for the 500 NE. For me, it's the optimal classic with an unimpeachable reputation for it's stopping and killing power combined with the right packaging. It works well in a smokeless world with no need for fillers, the only change I would make it to give it a thicker rim. That said, I never hunted mine before I sold it; I do plan on getting another but it will probably be a single shot. Most importantly, I could shoot it.