Originally Posted by InTheWoods

Hard to say. I have a 63 no dash and a 34-1, and love both. I handled the new Ruger 101 at Cabela's a couple of days ago. It was also very nice and seemed very well made. I believe it is a little heavier than the Smiths and this could be a consideration for you (+ or -). With the Smith you get a chance to play with a huge variety of grip options, something you might not get to do as much with the Ruger.

I guess one reason not to get the Ruger is that it is simply not a Smith and Wesson.