I did some research for another "newbie" and glad to share it with you.
• First of all $500 puts your pal in a class that is well above the bare-bones cheap-as-you-can-get-it class ("the Yugo class"). In this price range he'll get a press and accessories with quality enough to last him the rest of his life. He'll get accessories that are accurate and will not fail to perform for decades ("the Buick class").
• Secondly, I'd tell you that IMHO any complete system is going to cost you $400+ once the bugs are worked out, no matter what brand you buy. So your friend is very smart, or very well counseled. You probably know the same from your experience.
The results for single stage were...
• RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Kit, List $408
https://rcbs.com/
Single-die hole over a single ram. Exceedingly strong frame which may restrict some access.
Good: Nice kit with lots of basic accessories. Excellent powder measure and balance scale.
So-so: Speer manual is good 3rd choice manual. Hand priming supplied; in-machine priming optional extra.
Bad: No case trimmer.
• Lyman Crusher II Expert Kit, List $400
http://www.lymanproducts.com/lyman/presses-and-kits/LyC_RPK_Expert_Crusher.php
8-hole manual die turret over a single ram. Strong open frame with excellent sight and hand access.
Good: Nice kit with lots of basic accessories. Excellent powder measure, case trimmer, and balance scale. In-machine priming included. One of the best reloading manuals on the market.
So-so: None
Bad: None
Comments:
• A powder trickler is an accessory you’ll use irregularly for rifle loading.
• A case trimmer is an accessory you must have for all rifle reloading.
• A set of 6” calipers will be required for measuring cases and cartridges, for rifle and pistol.
• Highly suggest a powder measure stand (such as RCBS 9092) with all above machines.
I use a Dillon (just so you'll know where I stand), but I have owned both these in the past. Even if your pal goes to a multi-stage press in the future, these will supply quality accessories which he can use with either and will probably give to his grandchildren. I'm currently still using a RCBS powder measure and balance scale I bought in 1981 with my first Rock Chucker.
I've given the list prices for comparison, but both these presses can be found discounted.
All the best.