Well back in ancient times police officers would use their revolvers to thump the heads of miscreants. This was pre-Taser and pre-Pepper Spray days mind you. The Smith and Wesson design was preferred because the ejector rod was protected by the shroud. Other than that I don't really think the Colt design was better or worse than the S&W design. However the debate between Colt and Smith & Wesson fans continue to this day.