Most hunters start their outdoors career with a simple pump shotgun. It’s reliable, it’s durable, and it has withstood the test of time. No point learning on a fancy, high-tech model: You’ve got to learn to walk before you can run.

Why, then, do many seasoned shooters still tote around the ol’ pump-action? For those same reasons: reliability and durability. Add to the list “affordable.” These seven pump shotguns give you a lot of bang for your buck. Which you’ll appreciate the next time you’re going “bang” at a buck. Check out this roundup of the seven best pump shotguns to be had for under $500, as determined by the folks at Outdoor Life.

On the subject of price, you could pay a lot of money for a pump with glossy walnut and gold inlay. But that’s sort of like putting chrome rims on your johnboat trailer. A pump, rather, should be used and abused. Yes, you get a lot for your money when you buy a pump shotgun. To give you a better idea of just how much you can get, we put together this list of the best pump shotguns for less than $500. Many of these guns can also be purchased used for hundreds less, but if you’re headed to the local gun shop, here’s what five Benjamins will get you.

Photo credit: Buzzillions