i have several of both. not a lot of difference in quality between them so its a matter of preference. i kind of like the tang safety on the 500. i'd say an 870 would hold or increase in value slightly whereas the 500 probably wouldn't.
for a 3" turkey gun though i'd highly recommend the laminated stock 870 youth 20 gauge with the 18" barrel and a jellyhead choke. you can find the adult sized butt stock on ebay. it makes for a nice convertible and the 3" 20 is no slouch on turkey heads.
