So I recently aquired a very nice 50s 5 screw
model 27. As it seems very hard to find the
correct vintage gold box so I was thinking of finding
a presentation box to keep it in. Now the 3.5
cases are hard to find also. So my question for members with cases is would a 4 inch case
work for 3.5 inch 27? Or forget it and place the
funds for the next S&W? Your info appreciated.

the front sight of the 3.5 inch probably wont line up with the 4 inch recess

It should work. S&W used 6.5" presentation cases for some of their 6" N frames in the late 70s.

Personally, I would not bother. Unless the grips, box, presentation case, etc are of the same era as the gun it loses something.

Something to consider is a custom presentation case, rather than a vintage S&W. Wish I knew a good maker to recommend....

It depends on what you are trying to accomplish. I think either an original style box or a Presentation case would look nice but not be original, so unless you are looking to make up something that appears factory (nothing wrong with that if so) I'd vote for saving up.

__________________
Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

check out bills cases:

Bill Cases - Fine Quality Engraving of Guns

So you have a Model 27 no dash gun, stamped under the crane? That model would have been in production as early as 1957, so your revolver is at least a late-1950s era gun. I am thinking the clam-shell cases of that era were hard foam that was flocked or satin cloth covered. That means that the exact shape of the revolver would have been indented into the foam. Placing a different length barrel would mean the front sight would not have a slot to sit in and would not quite fit.

Patience is the virtue you will need for this type of search, but some day down the road that exact box you need will show up

__________________
Gary
SWCA 2515

I used to be into the boxes. But they are bulky and one 27-2 rusted in the box. Got rid of nearly all of them.

__________________
No life story has happy end.

Hello Art Doc and all..
I appreciate everyones input on my cases/box
post. My pre 27 3.5 is 1953ish vintage. A correct gold box would be nice to go with my 1953 4"
HD that has its orig gold 4 inch box. The correct gold 357 Magnum box is hard and expensive to find but
that is half the fun to us.
I have to tell Art Doc I admire your collecting
skills. Appreciate your work/seeking out the boxes and pieces/parts.
Any more sources on boxes or cases and your
thoughts and input I appreciate very much.
My Best J R..