What happened to Performace Center cases?

[packheat]

I have seen lots of PC guns with very nice wood or aluminum cases. My 625-8 showed up in a grey plastic case that is nearly identical to the blue case my 1911 came in. It does have the performance center logo molded in the lid but that's the extent of the fanfare. Has S&W done away with the fancy cases or is it just certain models that get them?

[505Gibbs]

Originally Posted by packheat

I have seen lots of PC guns with very nice wood or aluminum cases. My 625-8 showed up in a grey plastic case that is nearly identical to the blue case my 1911 came in. It does have the performance center logo molded in the lid but that's the extent of the fanfare. Has S&W done away with the fancy cases or is it just certain models that get them?

I too have noticed the change from the aluminum[though most likely from China] to the zipper soft side to the gray hard plastic.
My guess is that the soft sides made the most economical sense for the long barrel versions while the gray plastic is just a money saver over the metal cases.
You gotta make a buck these days!!
One other thought on the metal ones - perhaps they[S&W] had a supply chain issue - just my $0.02.

[Gorenut]

I can't speak for the wood case, but I think the aluminum ones are kind of garbage. My 627 came with a case with a broken latch which I had to pry open with a screwdriver. I called S&W's CS and told them about my case and they told me they no longer carry the aluminum cases. He sent me a plastic case with the Performance Center logo on it within a week's time and I couldn't be happier with the new case. Much more durable and serves its purpose better. The aluminum case probably looks better for presentation.. but my gun was purchased to be shot instead of a showpiece.

[JamesArthur60]

All I can add is my 952 came in an aluminum case that was dinged and the combination lock did not work. CS sent me a new one, but I've never removed the lock tab. They are made in China and probably not worth the issues to continue use for S&W customers. Just a guess.

[.357magger]

On the other foot, my last PC gun included the aluminum case that was perfect in every respect and a real nice case imo. I'd feel much safer using it to transport, especially flying, than with any plastic case.

Just my .02 but mine works just fine and was in great condition.

[tall gunner]

When I purchased my model 63 3" this spring it showed up in a cardboard case so I guess plastic is the new aluminum. I just stack them up under the work bench so I don't much care what they come in.

[Pate]

My Bone Collector came in a cardboard box with an embroidered soft carry case.

[Benderx4]

Seems like quite a few gun makers have started making their guide rods out of plastic instead of metal. Looks like this trend is now continuing with the cases. What's next?

[markush]

At least you guys buying the PC guns are still getting a hardcase...it's now back to cardboard for us that buy the regular production stuff.

[jessegpresley]

My $4500 Wilson came in a gun rug made in China.

[packheat]

Originally Posted by jessegpresley

My $4500 Wilson came in a gun rug made in China.

That's why it was only $4500!

lol

[oldeddie]

If you put the old aluminum case away, not touching anything, in a dark place no one ever goes it may last and look good. That was the only way to make mine survive.