I rarely buy a new handgun anymore. The used ones are way better deals, and very very rarely have given me problems.
My Ruger Blackhawk cost $299 plus shipping and FFL. It's from the early 70's and had been shot a fair amount before I got it, but it works just fine. The Ruger SA revolvers are very sturdy, so buying them used is NBD.
Note: I have no problem buying a Taurus Model 85 or Model 66 variant from the 1980's, up until 1990 or so. Apparently they made them pretty well back then.
My Old Model Taurus Model 66 is from 1982 or 83... I can't remember for sure. It was one of the last Old Models made. It has an internal hammer block instead of a transfer bar. The trigger is outstanding. I paid around $300 plus shipping and FFL.
My Taurus Model 689 was made in 1990, IIRC, and cost me $199 used, though that was almost 20 years ago. I think you could maybe get one for... IDK, maybe $400 these days? It was made in 1990 and was the fanciest 375 they made back then. The trigger isn't quite as good as the others I'm listing, but it's still quite good.
My S&W Model 28 cost me something like $425 plus shipping and FFL. The trigger is outstanding, maybe even a little better than the Old Model 66. I got a good price because the finish is somewhat worn, and it has after-market grips. IDC, it's an excellent shooter.
I am doubtful that you could get a brand-new 357 revolver for $500 or less that's as good or better than any of these.
I love Blackhawks. It is a very fine shooter.
My friend at the LGS was very impressed with the trigger on this Taurus when it arrived at his store. It is better than the one on my friend's S&W Model 66 that he got from his dad. It is ridiculously accurate.
This is my preferred HD handgun. The aftermarket grips were the largest exotic hardwood Thai ebay grips that I could find. The trigger is very nice. It's not quite as good as my friend's S&W mentioned above, but when we trade back and forth, the practical accuracy is the same.
Wow. This one is just a joy to shoot. The trigger is heavenly. My friend got one, and I just had to have one of my own. I have XL hands, and N-frames fit them very well.