If you're gonna model for the source engine you should use 3ds max or xsi, I prefer max, and you should work on your smoothing groups.
Look, you can't pick up a crappy modeling program, make 2 or 3 models, and submit them to a high-quality mod. I'm with Empty on this one. Sure he can be a jackass, but who isn't sometimes. On a more positive note, here's a good site that I got some of my modeling tips from. http://www.pixel2life.com/ has tips for every program and all skill levels, as well as forums to discuss your models so you don't get flamed here. Take care!
C4D is used by many because you get good results without to much time spend on learning the programm, maya is the better overall package. But as far as i know C4D has the mental ray render now too