Cylinder clockwise--Cylinder counter clockwise

[Hondo44]

As stated above. Top breaks turn clockwise due to the hand on the opposite side. All hand ejectors turn counter clockwise.

Except one, always exceptions with S&Ws. Although it's a top break, it's unusual with it's hand ejector action; therefore the 38 Perfected Model is CCW.

 

[Hondo44]

S&W changed the threads on the ejector rod to LH in the mid-60's (or so), to prevent loosening due to the CCW cylinder rotation.

That's a common understanding but only applies to the K and N frames in ~1961. Too many I frames (and pre '61 J frames) have been bubba'd because of it.

The I frame change was immediately upon re-introduction after the war.

 

[Big E3]

My 1877 top break Baby Russian rotates CCW

 

[opoefc]

The large majority of Ebay sellers of gun parts have no clue as to what the part they are selling might fit, so it's alway "Caveat Emptor" Just be sure you are bidding on a part that the seller will allow returns. Ed.