Picture this; violins playing in the background;
When I bought my 500, 4 inch. I was told how badly the recoil would be, beside the noise, and flame. Can't use it for home defense/CH, too powerful. Goes through walls, through people.
I'm saying, to myself: "Where was this gun made. On the planet Krypton. I just want a hunting handgun"! Was told, buy a .38/9mm/357.
So I went out, and bought an NFL approved helmet. Fire-proof suit. Specially made hearing protection.
Went to the range, loaded up (1350 fps, something like that, 325 grainers) and started shooting.
Well, I was so disappointed, went back and told the guy: I'm returning this gun, because it's a lemon. I either want one that works properly or my money back. Because....it did not perform the way you described it would! I want my monies worth!
I, one time called S & W, to ask a question (not about the 500 though) and after telling the CSR, the above story, she starting laughing, at me! Could it be defective?
But, no.....she was very nice, though. Even if she kept laughing at me.
Yes, it does kick (no hard-hat needed)! Yes, it does have a flame (no need for a fire-proof suit, though. Yes, it does have noise to it. Just buy off the shelf hearing protection.
But, if one is capable of handling a .44 magnum or more powerful caliber. One can graduate to the 500. Start with 500 specials or reduced loads, before going to the more powerful ones. And start holding it with two hands, before graduating to one hand. Try single action first, before double action shootin'. The rest is up to you.
p.s. stick with the rubber grip, instead of wood, till you can make the call to go to wood.