I recently purchased a NIB SD9VE threw private ffl transfer, lifetime warranty?

Yes...you are the original owner. Register it online.
You will get conflicting info on whether they will transfer a used warranty...
SW clearly states original owner...but others will tell you otherwise.

Their customer service is top notch.

If you can register it at S.W. You are the "original owner".

ive never had any issue with smith customer service. i have a SD40 that im not the first owner of that i sent in and got free repairs on under warranty

__________________
Fugitive Recovery Agent

While S&W's warranty statement limits the warranty coverage to the original owner, S&W doesn't usually ask. If the original owner didn't "register" the gun online or via mail, they may not have any way to know...unless they ask for proof of purchase, like some companies (which S&W doesn't.)