Which Presentation Case Liner?

[JeffD607]

I have a Model 57 with serial #607XXX which, according to SCSW, was born in 1979-1980. Which way should the gun be pointed when in the presentation case? I think it is riding the wave and I have seen conflicting information. Thanks!

 

[Doc44]

The correct style of presentation depends on when your Model 57 actually shipped, but the serial number puts in the area where the revolver could point to the left or right. Without an actual shipping date, it is difficult to provide a better opinion.

Bill

 

[Hawg Rider]

As Doc44 says, it's sometimes difficult to determine which way the revolver points in the mahogany presentation cases. Here's my nickel Model 57 ca. 1980-1981, and the box liner agrees with the description in the "SCSW 5th Ed." of the separate molded tool compartment (1978-1981). However, it doesn't agree with "the barrel points to the left" since my barrel points to the right! Prior to 1978, the tools had individual molded slots. Most of the cases I've seen from that period have the barrel pointing to the left. I guess you never really know with S&W! I believe that your inserts would be the same as mine shown below. Maybe jcelect (our resident presentation case guru) will chime in with his inputs.

 

[jcelect]

To the OP! Your question has no definite answer without a ship date and then it is anyone's educate guess. The case pictured above was introduced sometime in 1979. The next question would be the number of cases, of the preceding style, waiting to be shipped as S&W used all available stock before changing. A factory letter could possibly mention the gun being shipped in a presentation case, but it would not have the style of liner being used. S&W used 4 different styles of liners in their presentation cases from 1960-1983. The one pictured above, 1979-1983, is the only liner where the gun pointed to the right.
jcelect

 

[blackdeuce]

My 27-2 dates to around 1980. I believe this is the original case. It points to the right.

 

[JeffD607]

To the OP! Your question has no definite answer without a ship date and then it is anyone's educate guess. The case pictured above was introduced sometime in 1979. The next question would be the number of cases, of the preceding style, waiting to be shipped as S&W used all available stock before changing. A factory letter could possibly mention the gun being shipped in a presentation case, but it would not have the style of liner being used. S&W used 4 different styles of liners in their presentation cases from 1960-1983. The one pictured above, 1979-1983, is the only liner where the gun pointed to the right.
jcelect

It came with a presentation case that was pointing to the left (cracked, of course) and I believe everything was original. it's right on the fence as far as manufacture date, so I'm going to go with the using up liners theory for now and keep it pointing to the left. Thanks again!