i think most of the s&w parts are on par with most others, save for the barrels, which are the lower grade 4140.
the better barrels are made from 4150 grade blanks.
i dont remember where i heard this, someone correct me if im mis-informed on this.
ive never had a S&W, but my nephew who just graduated the academy, and is now a cop has one.
he loves it.