I know this is an old thread but the "The Bukmarks and Rugers are widely seen with beginners" comment aught my attention. I've never tried the Buckmark or the Smith, but I do know I got a 1" group at 100 yards with my Ruger MKII Target Model using scope/sandbags/trigger job/Eleytenex Ammo. Anyone ever get that with a smith or buck? What kind of accuracy you are looking for, are looking for ultimate accuracy or are you going to be shooting off hand in formal competition, or just plinking? If supreme accuracy is not important then what seems to fit your hand the best is the way to go. I like the Ruger because the barrel is rigid to the frame, a very simple and strong design, very accurate, and it's cheaper than a Hammerli.