I don't think you have to be a behmoth to own and shoot a 500, it really comes down to technique and experience with heavy recoiling guns. I have a John Ross model 500 at my dealer now and my current 500 is a 7.5 PC model. I am 5'9 170lbs and average build. I shoot my 500 with little discomfort and can't wait to get the JR model on the range!