Replying to Mountain Biking

Snow is starting to melt and I'm looking to get into mountain biking as a new sport. I havent bought a bike in years and I was wondering if anyone has any advice or model specs they would like to share. I'm looking to spend between $300-$500 on a bike, let me know what you can come up with. Thanks.


'And shepherds we shall be, for thee my lord for thee, power hath descended forth from thy hand. That our feet may swiftly carry out thy command. So we shall flow a river forth to thee, and teeming with souls shall it ever be. In nomine patrie, Et fili spiritu sancti'-Boondock Saints