Just an update:

Received the Shield back from RMA today via FedEx (4 weeks). Nothing was done except for cleaning. Same pistol, no replacement of slide, there was a New 8rd mag in the package, and 4 weeks of not having the pistol.

With the exception of the complimentary 8rd mag and a free cleaning, it was a total waste of time being without the pistol. Not only did it cost SW money to ship both ways, it was not worth the hassle.

It doesn't bother me that the pistol looks the way it does as long as it functions and is reliable if or when I really need it to. I won't be sending it back or escalate the issue as it's just more time wasting...don't think SW will do much for cosmetic.

Time to put 3-400 rds through it to ensure functionality then it'll be ready for prime time.