As much as I hate to suggest this, I firmly believe that Smith and Wesson are attempting to live on it’s past reputation; one of producing a top-quality revolver at a fair price.
Even though S&W still has a lock on the civilian market for revolvers. It appears that they don’t understand they are facing a shrinking market for their products, and one that may well continue to shrink over the years. Smith and Wesson have also forgotten the importance of Positive Word of Mouth advertising.
If I were in the market for a NEW handgun, a S&W product would not be my first choice.

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Always Stay Strong!