dxf is pretty common. I know Wings 3d can handle it, I think Anim8tor, Bryce for sure, and possibly Poser. The files tend to be a bit larger than .3ds, but there's conversion programs that can handle that as well. I got the program, but I understand about 1 word in 3, so it'll be slow going for awhile.

I wish I'd said that.. The Staircase Wit

anahl nathrak uth vas betude doth yel dyenvey..;)