IMHO the S&W quality never really dipped unlike other manufacturer's. There were changes in manufacturing to bring the company to the 21st century, but none of them compromised quality or finish. They did step on their dick with the lock feature and that would be the only reason keeping me from buying a new one. I can get a pre-lock used unit for the price of a new one and know it will only go up in value. Not really going to matter for me, but my heirs will appreciate it.
G