In the last two or three years I have had five or six, maybe more, occasions to deal directly with S&W. Each instance has been a good to excellent experience. That is a much better batting average than you expect dealing with a big corporation. Kudos S&W!
One thing I have noticed, that some will find annoying, is that communication from them when they return a repaired gun to you is minimal or non-existent. The problem will be solved but you will get little or no explanation.
As long as they are decent to deal with and stand behind their products, I can get along without the warm-and-fuzzies.