I'm glad they fixed it for you.

Don't be too hard on S&W. I went off them because of the quality of a 686 snub I had and went to Rugers. The two I bought (an SR9C and GP100) had issues that needed correcting.

To be fair to Ruger, they fixed the problems very speedily and their CS was beyond polite and helpful.

I have been eyeing a spanky new 686 for myself and have been fondling several in the gun shops. All of them had perfect barrels and fit and finish was excellent.

If I do get a dud, I am confident S&W will fix it.