Understanding the Taurus Legacy
The world of firearms offers a vast array of choices, each designed to cater to specific needs and preferences. When considering a reliable and versatile handgun, the revolver remains a popular choice due to its simplicity, durability, and inherent safety features. Within the realm of revolvers, Taurus has established itself as a prominent manufacturer, known for producing accessible and dependable firearms. This article delves into a thorough comparison of two of Taurus’s most sought-after revolvers: the Taurus 856 and the Taurus 605. We’ll explore their key features, performance characteristics, and suitability for different applications to help you make an informed decision.
Before diving into a head-to-head comparison, it’s essential to briefly acknowledge Taurus’s position in the firearms industry. Taurus, a Brazilian company with a significant presence in the United States, has built a reputation for offering quality firearms at competitive price points. Their commitment to innovation and their responsiveness to market demands have contributed to their enduring popularity among both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. Taurus revolvers are frequently chosen for personal defense, concealed carry, and recreational shooting, establishing themselves as a reliable go-to choice.
An In-Depth Look at the Taurus 856
The Taurus 856 has earned a strong following due to its balance of manageable size, user-friendly operation, and effective cartridge options. This revolver is a testament to the brand’s dedication to producing firearms that are accessible and easy to handle, even for new shooters.
The 856’s historical context reveals its evolution and commitment to refining core features. This revolver has been iteratively improved and refined over time, incorporating valuable user feedback and technological advancements.
Key Features of the 856
The core of the Taurus 856’s appeal lies in its well-thought-out design and reliable operation. It is offered in multiple variants.
Chambering: The Taurus 856 is primarily chambered in .38 Special +P. This cartridge strikes a balance between manageable recoil and effective stopping power, making it a practical choice for personal defense scenarios. The availability of +P ammunition further enhances its defensive capabilities.
Frame Size: Typically, the 856 boasts a medium-sized frame. This offers a comfortable grip and is often easier to handle, especially for shooters with smaller hands. This frame size offers a good balance between portability and manageability when handling the firearm.
Cylinder Capacity: The Taurus 856 usually accommodates six rounds in its cylinder. This provides a significant advantage in terms of capacity compared to some other compact revolvers, offering an extra round for potential defensive situations and improving the user’s confidence.
Construction: Constructed with either steel or an alloy frame, the 856 offers durability. The cylinder, typically constructed from stainless steel, is designed to withstand the pressures of firing .38 Special +P ammunition. This rugged construction ensures long-term reliability and resistance to corrosion.
Barrel Length: The 856 is available with several barrel lengths to suit diverse preferences. Common options include 2-inch and 3-inch barrels, each providing distinct advantages. The shorter 2-inch barrel is ideal for concealed carry due to its compact size, while the 3-inch barrel offers increased accuracy and improved muzzle velocity.
Action: The 856 operates on a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) mechanism. This means the trigger can either manually cock the hammer and then fire the gun (single-action) or simply fire the gun with a long pull (double-action). Many consider double-action/single-action operation an advantage for both its versatility and safety.
Sights: The 856 typically features fixed sights. These sights are designed to provide quick target acquisition for defensive purposes. Some models may offer adjustable sights for those who prioritize greater accuracy.
Grip Options: Taurus offers a range of grip options for the 856, allowing users to select grips that best suit their hand size and preferences. These grips vary in material, such as rubber or wood, further enhancing the handgun’s ergonomics.
Finishes: The Taurus 856 is offered in a variety of finishes, including blued steel, matte stainless steel, and other options, providing aesthetics and wear resistance, and the choice to match a shooter’s individual preferences.
Examining the Taurus 605
The Taurus 605 is another cornerstone in Taurus’s lineup, prized for its compact size and powerful chambering. It’s often a favorite among those seeking a reliable and potent concealed-carry firearm.
Similar to the 856, the 605 has evolved, reflecting industry trends. This revolver caters to shooters seeking a powerful and concealable option.
Key Features of the 605
The Taurus 605’s design is tailored for portability and effective self-defense. It offers a powerful cartridge in a compact package.
Chambering: The Taurus 605 is available in .357 Magnum or .38 Special +P, providing shooters with options for different levels of power. The .357 Magnum cartridge delivers exceptional stopping power, while .38 Special +P offers a more manageable recoil for faster follow-up shots.
Frame Size: The 605 utilizes a compact frame, designed for effortless concealment. Its smaller dimensions contribute to its appeal for those seeking a discreet carry option.
Cylinder Capacity: The 605 typically holds five rounds. While this is one less round than the 856, it is a trade-off made to create the compact size and powerful cartridge option.
Construction: The 605 features either a steel or alloy frame for durability. The cylinder, also made of stainless steel, is designed to withstand the pressure of the .357 Magnum rounds, if that caliber is selected.
Barrel Length: The 605 commonly features a 2-inch barrel. This contributes to the revolver’s compact profile and makes it easy to conceal.
Action: The 605 operates on a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) mechanism similar to the 856. This allows for a heavier double-action trigger pull or a lighter single-action trigger pull.
Sights: The 605 usually features fixed sights. These sights are designed for quick target acquisition. Some models may offer adjustable sights for better precision.
Grip Options: Similar to the 856, the 605 offers various grip options, allowing users to personalize the feel and fit of the firearm.
Finishes: The 605 comes in different finishes, providing aesthetics and wear resistance to match different preferences.
A Direct Comparison: Highlighting the Key Differences
Now, let’s pit the Taurus 856 and 605 head-to-head, focusing on the crucial differences.
Caliber and Ammunition: A significant difference lies in the chambering options. The 856 is typically chambered in .38 Special +P, while the 605 is available in both .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P. The .357 Magnum provides considerably more power, suitable for stopping threats. The .38 Special +P has less recoil, promoting quicker follow-up shots and more comfortable shooting sessions, especially for new shooters. Ammunition cost and availability are additional considerations, where .38 Special is often more affordable than .357 Magnum.
Frame Size and Dimensions: The 605 generally features a more compact frame than the 856. This makes it even easier to conceal for everyday carry. The 856’s slightly larger frame offers a more substantial grip, which can enhance comfort and control.
Cylinder Capacity: The 856 usually boasts a six-round cylinder, giving it an edge in capacity over the 605’s five-round cylinder. This additional round can be beneficial in a self-defense scenario. However, the increased capacity comes at the cost of a larger overall frame.
Barrel Lengths: While both revolvers offer barrel lengths, the 605 primarily uses a 2-inch barrel, focusing on concealment. The 856 has more varied barrel lengths, enabling the user to choose a barrel length based on their primary uses.
Action and Trigger: The actions and trigger pulls on both models are quite similar, but the 605 might have a slightly heavier trigger pull due to the larger cartridges. Both DA/SA actions offer versatility in shooting styles.
Sights: Sights on both models are similar, with fixed sights being standard. This emphasizes ease of use for personal defense scenarios.
Performance and Handling: Insights from Real-World Use
The tangible aspects of shooting each revolver can give you insight into the real-world differences between the models.
Recoil Management: The .357 Magnum in the 605 will generate significantly more recoil than the .38 Special +P in the 856. While .38 Special +P is not considered excessive, the .357 Magnum can be more difficult to control, especially for new shooters. The 856’s heavier frame helps mitigate recoil to some degree.
Accuracy: Both revolvers are accurate at typical self-defense distances. The longer barrel of some 856 variants may offer a slight advantage at longer ranges, however, the compact size of the 605 may limit extreme accuracy.
Concealed Carry Considerations: The 605 is often chosen for concealed carry due to its smaller frame. It’s easier to conceal under various clothing styles. The 856 is also easily concealed, but the overall size of the 605 gives it an edge.
Ergonomics and Grip: The grip designs affect the feel of each revolver. The ability to swap grips allows shooters to customize the feel of either model, although the difference in frame size plays a role in comfort.
Evaluating the Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Firearm
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each revolver is key to deciding which one suits you best.
Taurus 856: Pros and Cons
Advantages: The 856’s higher capacity offers more firepower in a defensive scenario. Its slightly larger frame can also improve handling and reduce recoil. The .38 Special +P cartridge is generally more affordable than .357 Magnum.
Disadvantages: While manageable, the .38 Special +P is less powerful than the .357 Magnum. The larger frame can compromise its concealability for some users.
Taurus 605: Pros and Cons
Advantages: The .357 Magnum offers significant stopping power, which is highly desirable for self-defense. The 605 is highly concealable.
Disadvantages: The .357 Magnum has more recoil. The 605 has a lower capacity than the 856.
Best Suited Scenarios and User Considerations
Matching the right tool to the job is essential. Understanding the strengths of each revolver can help guide your choice.
Target Shooting: The 856, with its larger frame and greater capacity, might be more enjoyable for extended target shooting sessions, particularly if the shooter prefers the .38 Special +P cartridge.
Concealed Carry: The 605, due to its compact size and concealability, is an excellent option for concealed carry. The 856 is also suitable, but the 605’s smaller size offers an added advantage.
Home Defense: Both revolvers can be effective for home defense. The choice may depend on the shooter’s preferences and familiarity with the different calibers.
Individual Factors: Several factors should guide your final decision. Experience level, hand size, budget, and the intended use of the firearm are all essential considerations. The .38 Special +P cartridges are typically less expensive to train with, especially for a beginner. Ultimately, the best choice is the one you are most comfortable and proficient with.
Price Point and Availability
Both the Taurus 856 and 605 are generally available and can be found at most gun stores. The pricing for these revolvers is attractive, making them a budget-friendly option for those looking for quality without breaking the bank.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Revolver for You
The Taurus 856 and 605 are both exceptional revolvers, each with unique strengths. The Taurus 856 provides a balance of manageable size, a greater capacity cylinder, and effective stopping power. The Taurus 605 is a powerhouse, offering a compact design and the option for the potent .357 Magnum round, ideal for concealed carry. The right choice hinges on your personal needs and preferences. Carefully consider the factors described above, explore both models at a local gun shop, and choose the firearm that best aligns with your individual requirements.
Important Disclaimer:
This comparison provides information for educational purposes only. Safe gun handling practices, proper training, and adherence to all local, state, and federal laws are of paramount importance. Seek guidance from a qualified firearms instructor and familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership and use before handling any firearm. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
Further Resources:
Taurus USA Official Website
Firearms Review Forums
Local Gun Shop Assistance
