Last week I went and fondled some wheelguns at my LGS. 3 of them all new. A 686+ 3"er, a Pro Series 60 3"er and a 2.25" sp101 DAO.

They ALL had way better triggers than my 442 and felt very good. I don't think I would consider the Ruger's any worse than the other 2. Well, the 60's was pretty light. The 686's smooth but a bit heavier. I think the 686 and SP101's trigger felt very similar. But I might not be very discerning. All I know is they all seemed infinitely better than my Stock 442.

Something about that 2.25" brick that seems so right. It balances nice. I think it definitely would feel a lot bulkier carrying than a J frame. And maybe even a K frame would feel a bit more svelte. But the weight isn't horrible on the SP101.

Anyways.... The lock does make a guy wonder about buying new Smiths. Although if you can take them out, why not just do that? I don't really care about the looks of plugging the hole there. If it works. But sure, would rather not have the lock to begin with.