The Taurus 85 942, often referred to as the Taurus 22 Magnum revolver, is a popular choice for concealed carry, plinking, and self-defense. This article will delve deep into the features, specifications, pros, cons, and overall performance of this small-framed revolver. We'll explore what makes it a good option for certain users and highlight areas where it might fall short for others. Understanding the Taurus 85 942 is crucial for anyone considering it for their personal needs.
Understanding the Taurus 85 942's Design and Features
The Taurus 85 942 is a five-shot, .22 Magnum revolver. Its small size and lightweight design are major selling points, making it highly concealable. This is achieved through a compact frame and a relatively short barrel length (typically 2 inches). Key features include:
- .22 Magnum Caliber: This cartridge offers more stopping power than the standard .22 Long Rifle, making it a potentially more effective self-defense round. However, it also comes with significantly more recoil.
- Small Frame: The compact size contributes to its concealability but also impacts the gun's overall strength and durability. This makes it better suited for smaller hands.
- Five-Shot Cylinder: While not as many rounds as larger revolvers, five shots is still a decent capacity for self-defense.
- Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA): The Taurus 85 942 operates in both double-action (pulling the trigger cocks and fires the hammer) and single-action (cocking the hammer manually before firing) modes, giving the user flexibility.
- Lightweight Construction: The lightweight design enhances concealability but can sometimes contribute to a sharper recoil, which may affect accuracy and comfort.
Materials and Construction
The 942 typically utilizes a steel frame and cylinder for durability. However, the overall finish and quality control can be inconsistent, with some reports of finish issues.
Table 1: Material Comparison in Different Taurus 85 Models
| Model | Frame Material | Cylinder Material | Finish Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 856 (example) | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Matte Stainless, Blued |
| 942 (example) | Steel | Steel | Blued, Matte Black |
Performance and Accuracy
The .22 Magnum cartridge's performance is a key consideration. While more powerful than .22LR, recoil can be a significant factor, affecting accuracy, especially for less experienced shooters. The short barrel also reduces velocity, which, in turn, can reduce the overall effectiveness of the round.
Case Study: An informal test conducted by a firearms enthusiast group showed that accuracy decreased with the shorter 2-inch barrel compared to a 4-inch barrel model. The shorter barrel also resulted in more pronounced muzzle flash and a sharper recoil impulse.
Pros and Cons of the Taurus 85 942
Pros:
- Excellent Concealability: Its small size makes it ideal for concealed carry.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other revolvers, the Taurus 85 942 is generally less expensive.
- .22 Magnum Power: Offers more stopping power than .22 LR.
- DA/SA Operation: Provides flexibility for the user.
Cons:
- Recoil: The relatively high recoil can be challenging for some shooters.
- Accuracy: The short barrel can impact accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
- Potential Quality Control Issues: Some users report issues with finish and durability.
- Limited Capacity: Only holds five rounds.
The Taurus 85 942 in Different Contexts
Self-Defense
While the .22 Magnum offers more stopping power than .22LR, its effectiveness in self-defense is debated. The short barrel reduces the bullet's energy, and the relatively small bullet diameter can result in a less reliable incapacitation. Expert advice should be sought before relying on this weapon for self-defense.
Target Shooting and Plinking
The 942 is quite suitable for casual target shooting and plinking. Its small size makes it easy to handle, and the relatively inexpensive ammunition makes it a good choice for frequent practice.
Concealed Carry
Its small size makes it a great option for concealed carry, but the user must be comfortable with its recoil and limited capacity.
Conclusion: Is the Taurus 85 942 Right for You?
The Taurus 85 942 is a versatile revolver, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its strengths lie in its concealability, affordability, and the power offered by the .22 Magnum round. However, potential drawbacks like recoil, accuracy limitations, and potential quality control issues should be carefully considered before purchase. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase the Taurus 85 942 depends on individual needs, experience, and expectations. Thorough research and potentially handling the firearm before purchase are highly recommended.