A Brand’s Journey: Taurus and Its Place
The .38 Special cartridge, a name that resonates with history and carries a legacy of personal defense and law enforcement, continues to hold a unique position in the world of firearms. With its blend of stopping power, manageable recoil, and ease of use, the .38 Special has earned its place as a trusted option for self-defense and target shooting. Within this realm, the Taurus brand has established itself, offering accessible firearms, including a compelling lineup of .38 Special revolvers. This comprehensive exploration delves into the Taurus .38 Special revolver, investigating its features, the models available, and the overall value it offers to both seasoned shooters and those new to firearms.
The Enduring Legacy of the .38 Special
Taurus, a Brazilian company with its origins in the manufacture of small arms, has steadily grown to become a significant player in the global firearms industry. Their commitment to providing affordable yet functional firearms has cemented their place in the market. While the brand has faced its share of challenges and scrutiny over the years, Taurus has consistently strived to improve its quality control, earning a reputation for producing reliable and accessible revolvers and pistols. The Taurus .38 Special revolver line represents a significant part of their offering, embodying the brand’s dedication to accessible self-defense options.
Origin and Popularity
The .38 Special, born from the .38 Long Colt cartridge, has a long and storied history. Its creation in the early twentieth century aimed to provide a more potent cartridge than its predecessor, specifically for law enforcement purposes. The cartridge quickly gained traction, becoming the standard issue for many police departments across the United States. This widespread adoption cemented the .38 Special’s reputation for effectiveness and reliability.
Beyond law enforcement, the .38 Special found its way into the hands of civilians for self-defense and sport shooting. Its manageable recoil, relative accuracy, and availability of ammunition made it a popular choice. The .38 Special’s enduring popularity stems from a combination of factors. The cartridge offers a respectable level of stopping power, particularly when loaded with modern hollow-point ammunition. Furthermore, its relatively low recoil impulse makes it accessible for shooters of all experience levels. This accessibility is especially important for those seeking a reliable firearm for personal protection. Modern advancements in bullet design have also contributed to the continued relevance of the .38 Special, with newer ammunition types improving its effectiveness.
Exploring the Taurus .38 Special Lineup
Taurus offers a diverse range of .38 Special revolvers, catering to different needs and preferences. The line often includes variations in size, material, and features, allowing consumers to find a revolver that fits their specific needs.
Frame Sizes and Styles
Taurus .38 Special revolvers are typically available in different frame sizes. The “small frame” or “snub nose” revolvers are known for their compact size, making them ideal for concealed carry. Medium frame revolvers provide a balance between concealability and comfortable shooting. Each frame size offers a different level of suitability depending on your need, ranging from concealed carry to range use.
Materials and Construction
Taurus utilizes a range of materials in their .38 Special revolvers. Stainless steel provides durability and resistance to corrosion. Alloy frames offer a lighter weight, which is particularly beneficial for concealed carry applications. Polymer grips are often used for their comfort and durability.
Sighting Options
Taurus provides various sight options. Fixed sights are often used on concealed carry models, offering a snag-free profile. Adjustable sights are found on some models, allowing for precise adjustments to elevation and windage for improved accuracy at varying distances. Many Taurus .38 Special revolvers also offer fiber optic sights, which enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
Barrel Lengths
The barrel length significantly impacts the overall size and performance of a .38 Special revolver. Shorter barrels, like those found on snub-nose models, prioritize concealability. Longer barrels may offer improved accuracy and velocity.
Action Types
Most Taurus .38 Special revolvers feature a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) or double-action-only (DAO) design. DA/SA revolvers allow the shooter to either cock the hammer manually for single-action fire or simply pull the trigger for double-action fire. DAO revolvers require a longer trigger pull for each shot.
Diving into Specific Models: A Close Look
To get a better grasp, let’s consider two popular Taurus .38 Special revolvers:
The Taurus Model 85
The Model 85 is a staple in the Taurus lineup. Often referred to as a compact, small-frame revolver, it is a popular choice for concealed carry. Its compact dimensions make it easy to conceal.
Key Specifications
The Model 85 typically features a five-round cylinder. Its compact size translates to an overall length, which is ideal for concealment. Construction typically utilizes stainless steel frames with rubber grips.
Feature Breakdown
The Model 85 has a simple design, emphasizing reliability. It usually comes with fixed sights for a clean draw. The trigger is smooth in its double action mode, and the exposed hammer allows single-action shooting. Rubber grips help with recoil management.
Performance and Accuracy
The Model 85 is generally considered accurate, especially at self-defense ranges. Recoil is manageable, making follow-up shots relatively easy.
Pros and Cons
The Model 85’s greatest strengths include its compact size, reliability, and affordability. It is a good choice for concealed carry. The compact size does mean that the small grips can feel less comfortable for shooters with large hands, and the shorter barrel length can limit effective range.
The Taurus 605
The 605 is a slightly larger revolver, designed to be a good all-around firearm.
Key Specifications
It has a five-round cylinder. Its size is slightly larger than the Model 85, making it potentially easier to shoot, especially for individuals with larger hands.
Feature Breakdown
The 605 often comes in stainless steel or blued steel. Its frame offers enhanced durability. The design of the grips is often ergonomically friendly, and the sights offer a better sight picture.
Performance and Accuracy
The 605 provides similar accuracy to the Model 85, and the larger grip and heavier frame mean that recoil is more manageable.
Pros and Cons
The 605 provides a good balance between concealability and shootability. The slightly larger size also makes it more comfortable to shoot than the Model 85. Its slightly larger size makes it less ideal for deep concealment.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
When considering a Taurus .38 Special revolver, evaluating both the advantages and disadvantages is crucial.
The Upsides of Owning a Taurus Revolver
Affordability is a key selling point. Taurus .38 Special revolvers are typically priced more competitively than similar revolvers from other manufacturers, making them an accessible option for budget-conscious consumers. The simplicity of the revolver design also contributes to high reliability. Revolvers are inherently robust and less prone to malfunctions compared to semi-automatic pistols. The compact sizes make the Taurus revolvers practical for concealed carry. The ease of use contributes to its appeal.
Things to Consider
The reputation of Taurus, while improving, has historically been associated with occasional quality control issues. While Taurus has implemented changes to improve manufacturing processes, it is essential to carefully inspect any Taurus .38 Special revolver before purchase. The trigger pull on some Taurus models can be heavier than some competitors.
Making an Informed Decision
Choosing the right firearm is an important decision. To make an informed purchase, several factors should be considered:
Identify your Needs
Determine the primary purpose of the revolver. If the intention is for concealed carry, a smaller frame like the Model 85 might be more suitable. For target shooting or home defense, a medium-frame revolver might be a better option.
Set a Budget
Taurus revolvers offer an attractive price point, but understanding your budget is crucial. Be mindful of other associated costs, like ammunition and any necessary accessories.
Read Reviews and Compare Models
Research different models and brands. Read reviews from other users to understand their experiences.
Careful Inspection Before Purchase
When purchasing a Taurus .38 Special revolver, carefully examine the gun. Check the cylinder alignment, trigger pull, and overall finish for any signs of defects.
Comparison with Other Brands
The Taurus .38 Special revolver faces stiff competition from established brands like Smith & Wesson and Ruger.
Competition
Smith & Wesson is known for its high-quality revolvers. Ruger offers a solid reputation for reliability. Both brands produce revolvers, often priced higher than Taurus.
Proper Maintenance and Care
Maintaining a Taurus .38 Special revolver properly is essential for ensuring its performance and longevity.
Cleaning
After each shooting session, clean the revolver. Use a cleaning rod, brushes, and appropriate solvents to remove lead deposits, powder residue, and other debris from the barrel, cylinder, and chambers.
Safety Protocols
Handle the revolver responsibly. Always treat any firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction.
Storage
Store the revolver in a secure location. Use a gun safe or a locked container. Make sure the firearm is unloaded.
Final Thoughts: The Taurus .38 Special Revolver
The Taurus .38 Special revolver offers a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and affordable handgun. Its compact size, reliable cartridge, and affordable price point make it attractive. While buyers should be aware of the history of the brand, Taurus has been improving its quality.
Ultimately, the Taurus .38 Special revolver, with proper care and understanding, can be a valuable asset for personal protection and recreational shooting. It is important to research and compare the various models.
