The Taurus 85, often referred to as the 38 Special Taurus snub nose, is a popular choice for concealed carry and personal defense. This article provides a comprehensive overview of this revolver, exploring its features, advantages, disadvantages, and considerations for potential buyers. We'll examine its place in the market, compare it to competitors, and delve into what makes it a favorite among many firearm owners.
Understanding the Taurus 85's Popularity
The Taurus 85's popularity stems from a blend of factors: its affordability, reliability, and compact size. It's a lightweight revolver, perfect for concealed carry, making it ideal for personal protection. The .38 Special cartridge itself is a potent round, offering stopping power while remaining relatively manageable in recoil for most shooters. Many law enforcement agencies and security personnel have used variations of the .38 Special over the years, contributing to its widespread recognition and reputation.
Key Features of the 38 Special Taurus Snub Nose
- Caliber: .38 Special
- Action: Double/Single Action
- Cylinder Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel Length: Typically 2 inches (snub nose)
- Construction: Usually stainless steel or blued steel.
- Sights: Simple fixed sights, often offering limited low-light visibility.
These features combine to create a revolver that is both effective and easy to conceal. The snub nose barrel helps to minimize the overall size, further enhancing concealability. The double/single action mechanism offers flexibility in shooting style.
Advantages of Choosing a Taurus 85
The Taurus 85 offers several compelling advantages:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other revolvers in its class, the Taurus 85 is generally more affordable, making it accessible to a broader range of shooters.
- Reliability: Taurus revolvers have a reputation for reliability, known for their ability to function under adverse conditions.
- Concealability: Its compact size and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
- Ease of Use: The simple design and operation make it relatively easy to learn and use, even for novice shooters.
- Ammunition Availability: .38 Special ammunition is widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Disadvantages to Consider
While the Taurus 85 offers many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
- Trigger Pull: The double-action trigger pull can be somewhat heavy and gritty compared to some higher-end revolvers. This can affect accuracy, especially for less experienced shooters.
- Sights: The basic fixed sights are not ideal for precise target shooting, limiting its effectiveness at longer ranges.
- Finish Durability: Some users have reported issues with the finish durability of certain Taurus models, particularly with wear and tear from regular use.
Table 1: Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Taurus 85 | Smith & Wesson J-Frame | Ruger LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher | Mid-range |
| Size | Compact | Compact | Compact |
| Trigger Pull | Heavier | Lighter (generally) | Lighter (generally) |
| Reliability | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Material | Steel (various finishes) | Steel (various finishes) | Steel/Polymer |
(Note: This table represents general comparisons and specific models may vary.)
Choosing the Right Ammunition
The .38 Special cartridge offers a wide variety of ammunition choices, including:
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): A common and inexpensive choice for practice.
- Hollow Point (HP): Designed for self-defense, offering increased expansion and stopping power.
- +P Ammunition: A higher-pressure load offering increased velocity and energy. Important Note: Always check your firearm's manual before using +P ammunition. Using +P ammo in a firearm not rated for it can damage the gun.
Safety First: Responsible Gun Ownership
Regardless of the firearm you choose, responsible gun ownership is paramount. This includes:
- Proper Training: Always seek professional firearms training before handling or carrying any firearm.
- Safe Storage: Store your firearm securely and out of reach of unauthorized individuals, especially children.
- Familiarization: Become thoroughly familiar with your firearm's operation and safety features before carrying or using it.
Conclusion: The Taurus 85 in the Market
The 38 Special Taurus snub nose, specifically the Taurus 85, remains a popular and widely accessible revolver for personal defense and concealed carry. Its affordability, reliability, and compact size make it a compelling option for many. However, potential buyers should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages, considering their individual needs and shooting experience. Remember to always prioritize safety and responsible gun ownership practices.