I know QC is a big issue and the squeaky wheels are the ones we always hear. Having said that and acknowledging that many of the "features" and "improvements" of the newer S&W's leave me less than impressed, I still have to side with the crowd that doesn't get too worked up about today's production. S&W has had it's ups and downs through the years
just like every other company out there for any length of time and on balance they must be doing OK since they're still in business and selling large quantities of a revolving handgun design the plasticators have pronounced dated and doomed.
Having produced such revered, beloved, and valued products in the past that have literally defined what a revolver should be, it is inevitable with the pressures of cost and labor/production these days and the integration of new materials and manufacturing methods that there will be periods of adjustment and a share of 'rejects'.
BUT . . .
Show me a company that has been in the manufacturing business even half as long as S&W that never makes mistakes, examples that never break or fail, or never has any previous customers complain they liked the old offerings better. You can't do it. Not bashing, just stating an opinion, but my guess is that per units produced there are a much higher percentage of breakages, misadjustments, faulty parts, and down right lemons among Taurus, Rossi and the like than S&W. Go ahead and add Colt & Ruger a place at that table, as well, since their products have also proven themselves in the market over a long period of time.
Bottom line - there is always someone out there that wants to pay a dollar less. And as such, there is always someone out there willing to produce something cheaper or 'almost as good', for that portion of the buying public. If time proves the design, function, fit, finish and price of some of the lesser company's offerings is superior they will take their place ahead in the line. (and THEN their prices will go up
)
Don't think for a second that the powers-that-be at S&W are not aware of the discussions and comments on boards like this one, and especially this one. When the chorus of complaints is contrasted with their trend in sales figures and customer satisfaction surveys to demonstrate a decline in their market share - things will happen. Some people love and praise S&W's customer service and some . . . not so much. They're there to make money - and if/when poor service starts to affect that bottom line they will take notice or someone else will take their place.
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) gosh I have to admit I own a Taurus revolver it's a 2" 617 .357 magnum seven shot. I've put about 2,500 rounds of assorted 38 special +p, +P+, and .357 magnum ammo through it without any shooting related problems. 
This, and the warranty, are the main reasons I like to buy new guns.
