I have put a shim with Lok Tite between the blade and base on a couple of rifles that were doing same. I actually used the mesh supplied with the Lewis Lead Remover as the shim.

The problem is that there are no gunsmiths left at Smith. They are all machinists and guys that program the CNC milling machine. No one is fitting the parts. Even Colt has closed down its custom shop....

Because then I would still be living with the rifling and the massive scratches they put in the finish as well as whatever weird chunk of metal is stuck between the ejector rod shroud and the frame

I know that exact feeling because I go through it every day at work.

However in the worst case it doesn't matter to me if I am the one who is satisfied, but it matters if I get a gun I consider good enough to sell with a clean conscious.

I agree that sending it back again is the thing to do as there are more problems that need to be addressed besides the sight. I tend to want to go up the ladder to bosses when things can't seem to get done right. I would recommend talking to someone in authority at S&W customer service. Phoning them regularly and asking for updates and names (or other identifier, ie., operator so & so) of who you talk to wouldn't hurt either.

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"In God We Trust"

Dum de dum just waiting. They've had it 'checked in' since Monday of last week and they've just plain had it since the Wednesday before. No word yet. Yes I'm aware today is a holiday. Just updating.

If thing doesn't meet your expectations I would never put it back in my safe. Off to the local LGS and trade for something else that you can actually inspect before you leave the store. Your patience exceeds mine by a long shot. (excuse the pun)

I'd send it back again, and demand a new barrel or new gun.

Well they have had my gun for a while now, I was promised updates and have had radio silence for about a week and a half since my last contact.

I just want the gun back so I can sell it and buy a ruger redhawk .357

Sorry y'all, this one just plain hasn't worked out and I doubt at this point anything can be done to satisfy me from their side.

Ya win some ya lose some. This whole debacle will have cost me a few hundred bucks all because of factory defects most likely.

Oh no! We are losing one over to the dark side. I still got my fingers crossed for you. I know it's a minimal chance you will be happy but it may happen. We will see... one of these days... it has been awhile.... still optimistic for you!