Late to th' party but: Welcome aboard number6.

The 'blad 500C was a pro piece, 2¼" square neg. Interchangeable backs came for either 120 or 220 roll film. There is a digital back available but cost is about as high as Apollo missions went (over the moon). I always found that pistol grip to be useless. A black plastic focusing ring was useful, though. It was a great tool for bride chasing and portraits but a really burdensome lump as a photojournalism camera.

FWIW/JMHO: Better off with a DSLR now; the image quality will largely depend on money spent but will likely equal the 'blad's. Get the best camera you can afford, then grow INTO the capabilities of the thing. A "cheap tool" will disappoint in short order. Whether it be an inferior wrench or camera. Get the best your money can buy, then pursue proficiency with it.

EDIT: Forgot to mention: a 'blad is definitely a two-hands-needed camera.