From a collector's point of view, most will say older is better. The pre-WWII ".357" Magnum is considered by many to be the pinnacle of S&W's quality, but it was a custom-ordered revolver and very "pricey" for its time. S&W's quality of the 50s through the mid-70s was good, although the polish given their bright blue revolvers deteriorated over time (comparitively speaking). In the late 70s and early 80s, their quality seemed to suffer as I think the company was seeking to reduce costs (as many companies were doing) and increase output. Production of the 2000s is good from my limited experience. I have purchased several Model 29-10s and all are perfectly functional. The nickel 29-10 I have looks as good as the nickel finished guns of the 60s. The blued guns are less polished, but S&W can do a super job if they want to as one of my special order guns is very highly polished and looks as good as the 44 Magnums from the 50s.

Bill