If I had to choose today, from all the feedback I received, I would buy the Smith & Wesson Sport II with the MLOCK hand guard. I think it is the best value of the bunch.

I am a little concerned about the unshrouded firing pin on the Ruger, which could be a reliability issue down the road. I have also seen more QC issues reported in general on the Ruger than the Sport.

I can upgrade the stock and grip for well under $100 and still be in the $600+ price range total for the Sport II, which was what people were paying just a year ago without the upgrades. I also like the assurance of the S&W warranty better.

I did have some initial teething problems with my other two S&W firearms, but when pressed, S&W made them right.

As much as I like the Saint, I think it is a little over priced for what I'm looking for in a rifle. If it was in the $600 price range, I'd have to seriously consider it.

Anyway, looks like I'm going to purchase the M&P Sport II this week.

Thanks again for all the feedback. I'm starting to grow my family of S&W firearms.