A few thoughts. I got a 1000 yard model, but hear that, depending on conditions like sunlight, they don't range as far as they claim to. You might need more to get where you need to under all conditions (no problems with mine yet, but have only been able to range to about 565 arounf suburbia.)
Second, your needs might change, or your interests, so you might someday want the 1000. It would be a waste to have two, and you'd never use the 500 if you had the 1000.
Lastly, THIS IS AMERICA. BIGGER, FASTER, MORE EXPENSIVE is ALWAYS BETTER.
Well, gotta go. I need to pick up my EXCURSION from having the supercharger installed.
LOL