I appreciate the responses. I've been a shooter my whole life, but didn't know all the nuances of a rimfire.This gun WON'T extract without being hit. I guess the buildup of carbon contributes to sticking rounds.I have a feeling I'll be testing S&W customer service!
No matter, I'm a Smith guy, and will continue to be one. My super tuned 686+ from the factory is equal in SA or DA to my 1975 Colt Python, and better than my 1980 Colt Diamondback. Couldn't ask for mores!
Thank you all again