If shipping is free for over $500 where would you stop the line? They have a "bottom line" is what it all boils down to. What if it was 495? Maybe that would make the consumer feel better, knowing they won't get free shipping? Or they could have priced it for $539 (like the dealer in Texas) and offered free shipping. One way or the other, they want a specific price. If I was local I would have saved the $30 because they do have a storefront....so keeping the price low (499.99 versus something like $539) benefits their local sales.
So it's OK, like I said, the dealer in Texas wouldn't budge and so his gun would have cost me around $608 so I'm good. I'll post a picture and a range report in a week or so. Can't wait to get it.