Box label orientation

[histan]

Hi, I need to know what is the correct placement of the label on a blue 1970's pistol box? The original label is upside down. I have two boxes like this and want to know if this is common. I want to use a reproduction label as the lid isn't original to the box. Any thoughts?

[gmborkovic]

Its your perception of up side down. Boxes were stored printed lid down.
So when you look at the end of the box with lid down, the label is correct and readable. Got it? Why? So when you pick up the box, the bottom does not fall out and the gun go skating across the floor.

[4T5GUY]

Originally Posted by histan

I want to use a reproduction label as the lid isn't original to the box. Any thoughts?

Thoughts?

Just wondering why you want to “force number” a box Label? You have a pistol that doesn’t match a box, (or two,) and you want to spuriously turn it into one that does?

To me a matching box is a plus for all the obvious reasons but not having a matching box, (or any box,) isn’t a deal breaker. JMHO.

I remember years ago the uproar when blank S&W end labels started showing up. I remember the comments and concerns.

Jim

[toddimusnimski]

Originally Posted by gmborkovic

Its your perception of up side down. Boxes were stored printed lid down.
So when you look at the end of the box with lid down, the label is correct and readable. Got it? Why? So when you pick up the box, the bottom does not fall out and the gun go skating across the floor.

Mike nailed it. As far as a new label, I can understand if your goal is to just help identify what gun you have inside. Just realize that some will frown upon recreating a label as it can be seen as being deceptive (trying to pass off a replacement box as being original). To avoid this, it may be best with those older boxes to type the information into those blank spaces as opposed to handwriting it. That makes your intent more obvious.

For my orphan hardware I have sought out proper model boxes with SN's close to the guns #, making them "period correct" but certainly not original. Best to keep everything above board!

Todd

[gmborkovic]

Todd, well said. No harm for your own use. I never have just because I aint paying money for a repro label that a blind man can spot from across the gun show venue. I just use a Post-It on the end for identification.

[4T5GUY]

Originally Posted by gmborkovic

No harm for your own use. I never have just because I aint paying money for a repro label that a blind man can spot from across the gun show venue.

I do not have an issue with someone using these labels for their own use. I sincerely did not think the OP/histan has nefarious intentions. That said….

The new label offerings are much improved from the first ones that were available, more plentiful and cheaper. ($12.00 for two of your choice.)

A “blind man” couldn’t spot the difference of course. My concern is the sincere but novice collector getting an example w/“matching” box.

Jim

[histan]

Thanks' Mike, what you said makes perfect sense. And to those who have exposed my criminal nature. My 52-2 came with everything except the lid. A friend found me a lid for a 41-A with a slightly damaged label. My "counterfeit" label looks to be a reasonable simile, but what do I know I'm not blind. I have no intention of selling it and if I do I will label the label honestly. Now I remember why I'm infrequent on these forums.

[4T5GUY]

Originally Posted by histan

And to those who have exposed my criminal nature. Now I remember why I'm infrequent on these forums.

No no no. Don’t get butt hurt. (Probably another infraction.)

No one even insinuated any “criminal nature” that you have in wanting to have a labeled box that matches your example. Read the responses. With intent. It’s all yours and do what you want. I think that is a good thing for you if it’s important. Plus it again brought up that question again so that cool.

This Forum totally forbids bashing and such so no one, (currently posting,) would EVER do it. I think your original post was great. I just expressed my personal thoughts when you originally asked about thoughts.

Sorry if I made you not want to post here anymore.

Jim

[gmborkovic]

Hey histan, lord only knows I have had my fur rubbed the wrong way over the years on this and other forums. Just shake it off, no harm was intended. Your intent and honor have not been tarnished. Keep coming back. Mike

[histan]

Thanks for your response. I admit to overreacting and I agree that modifying to make something appear original and therefore more valuable is unethical. I just like things to look correct. No ill intentions. I have had a few bad online experiences just like most online. The S & W forum is one of the best for information. Thanks again, Milo

[toddimusnimski]

No accusations intended Milo! I saw you were an infrequent poster and just wanted to bring up an issue that has come up here in the past, that you possibly wouldn't have read about yet.

Hope you stick around - I've leaned A LOT from members of various backgrounds and experiences. I may not be able to afford most of the "eye candy" posted in various sections but the knowledge is freely given and happily accepted.

Todd