I have a 610-3 with a 6 1/2 inch barrel and it's heavy enough that I cannot concieve of the lock ever causing a problem. Those who don't want anything to do with the lock are free to feel that way, however IMO they are missing out on some splendid revolvers.
As for the 610, I don't want it brung back for just a short run, put it into the catalog PERMANENTLY. Please S&W, take a look at what rimmed ammo costs today, 40 caliber ammo for the 610 is just about 5 dollars a box CHEAPER than 38 spl. ammo for a 686 and if you look at the cost for 357 Magnum it's about 14 dollars a box difference. If you were really smart, you'd have the 610 in barrel lengths from 3 inches up to 6 1/2 inches in regular production and also start building a 9mm moon clip L frame.