Not to get into a pissing match, but i owned and sold a lot of both S&W's and Rugers.

I sold a new Ruger 357 mag one time, and the guy brought it back because it wouldn't even chamber 38spl's, they would not go into the cylinder. I looked it over and Ruger only chambered the cylinder 1/2 way down. So much for test fireing EVERY firearm before it leaves the factory!!! I easily had more Rugers that had problems, than the S&W's i sold, but i still own both today.

I'm not saying you didn't have S&W problems, but some place there's a guy with just as many or more problems than you had, only with a Ruger or some other brand.

For my self, i've had excelent service out of S&W, better than any other brand i've owned. I've shot thousands and thousands of rounds out of my M29's and they just keep on going and going!! This includes competition and hunting.

Anyway, good luck with what ever you buy,

Drilling Man