I've heard this same Bull many times before.I don't believe it for a second.Gun mfgs aren't going to ruin their reputation selling inferior products through W*M's or anybody else for that matter.Different companies might make special runs for them ,with the same standard of quality.Ruger makes a special 10/22 exclusively for W*M. It's a S/S W/22"bbl and Walnut colored hardwood stock.I saw at one W*M a Remington 1100 I believe it was a 1100 Sam Walton Limited edition.It had a gold(?) inlay of Sam Walton on the receiver.No Wal*Mart does not sell seconds or lower grade guns.

Ruger Redhawk