Hey Rob,

I was in the same boat as well when I was pondering going Sigma.
It is NOT a bad gun.
It is actually a very good gun for the price. It is not finicky about ammo used and is very reliable (You pull the trigger it goes bang).

The biggest complaints you will hear is about the length and weight of the trigger, however if you have ever handled DA revolvers, then you will feel right at home.

Another complaint is the grittiness of the trigger. This can be remedied by polishing some parts, or calling S&W and letting them know and they will perform the polishing for you for free.

Another positive point is the fact that you get a LIFETIME warranty.

Sigma was also my first hangun ever. Since I never handled (for a long period of time) any other handgun, I was never "spoiled" by anything else. When I handle an M&P or an XD or a Glock, I am surprisingly proficient with them, because I learned of a gun that has a longer heavier trigger. Just my thoughts.

Cheers,