18DAI's take is sage advice. I have similar advice that is off in a related but angled tangent--

It's the constant question/worry about factory support and/or parts for 3rd Gen pistols. Folks, these guns are difficult to wear out. And there are a zillion parts on the secondary market. An entire replacement 3rd Gen of the same model isn't expensive. And as each day passes, there are LESS qualified guys in Springfield, Mass that have half a clue how to best work on a 3rd Gen anyway.

What kind of factory support is there for 3rd Gens at S&W today? Truth is, it depends on who answers the phone and their mood.

I suggest either buying a real BEATER 3rd Gen and start practicing on how to detail strip it, learn how it works and become your own "mothership." Most likely, you won't find many problems, but learning how to care for your own 3rd Gen can help alleviate any concerns about how much help S&W can be if you break something.