Pilot:
You are indeed correct that the 3rd Gen S&W 3913 and the HK P7 are not in the same "class"..
But that is not to say the 3913 is not a good pistol, and for many people, particularly those who prefer a traditional double-action platform, it's often a BETTER choice for personal protection than the fine HK P7.
All of my 3rd Gen Smiths have been absolutely reliable, and more than self defense accurate. I am more concerned about absolute reliability in a firearm I use for personal protection than I am tack driving accuracy (as the P7 offers)..
The Smiths don't require adaptation to a new cocking and firing process, come with a lifetime warranty, mags are relatively easy to find, not too pricey, and the prices of NIB or "like new" 3rd Gen Smiths are generally lower than that of the surplus P7.
All something to think about for the average shooter looking for a quality 9MM pistol.
I believe for dedicated "gun guys/gals", and IF the unusual squeezecocking aspect of the HK P7 suits them, the HK P7 is about as good a single stack 9MM pistol as has ever been made.
But generally speaking, just for the "average" person seeking a small(er) 9MM pistol for cc and personal defense any of the 3rd Gen Smiths are hard to beat.
In my Smiths, I actually prefer the double-stack 6906, using the 5906 mags w/+2 S&W extender, offering me a capacity of 15+1 rounds..
And, as good as the HK P7 is, I have found that for my needs the HK P2000sk (V3) is even a better daily cc choice.. Two more rounds, double-action w/capability of cocking the hammer for a first round sa if desired.. In fact my P2000sk is SURPRISINGLY as accurate as either of my P7's, and I'm still amazed at that..
Additionally, if I want to use the higher capacity mag of the full size P2000 (w/Xgrip) I still have a very concealable 9MM pistol offering a capacity of 13+1...
Just personal opinion, no offense to those who might disagree..
Best Wishes,
Jesse