Introduction
The world of personal defense is filled with choices, each firearm offering a unique set of attributes. Among the most enduring and reliable options is the revolver, a firearm known for its simplicity, robust construction, and ease of use. And when it comes to a compact, powerful, and easily concealed revolver, the 357 Revolver Taurus 605 stands out. This review dives deep into the Taurus 605, examining its features, performance, and suitability for those seeking a potent personal defense weapon. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the world of firearms, understanding the nuances of the Taurus 605 is crucial for making an informed decision.
This article will explore the Taurus 605’s design, its suitability for concealed carry, and how it compares to other options in its class. We will delve into its strengths, acknowledge its limitations, and ultimately provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this compact powerhouse. This is more than just a product review; it’s an exploration of a tool designed to potentially save lives.
Features and Specifications
The Taurus 605 isn’t just another revolver; it’s a carefully engineered instrument designed for both power and discreet carry. Understanding its core characteristics is key to appreciating its place in the personal defense landscape.
Caliber and Capacity: The Power of the .357 Magnum
At the heart of the Taurus 605’s appeal lies its chambering in .357 Magnum. This round is legendary for its potent stopping power, delivering significant energy at the target. The .357 Magnum offers exceptional penetration and rapid expansion, factors highly desirable in a self-defense scenario. The Taurus 605 can also safely fire .38 Special rounds, offering a less powerful option for practice or situations where reduced recoil is preferred. The revolver’s five-round cylinder provides a balance between capacity and compact size, ensuring a readily accessible supply of potent ammunition.
Size and Weight: Concealability and Control
The Taurus 605 is designed for concealed carry, and its size and weight reflect this intention. Its compact dimensions, combined with a relatively light weight, make it easy to conceal under clothing. The barrel length is carefully chosen to balance effective ballistics with ease of concealment. The overall length is kept minimal, allowing for comfortable carry in various positions. The weight, while substantial enough to manage recoil, remains light enough to avoid being a burden during daily carry. These design choices demonstrate a clear focus on providing a powerful handgun that can be carried comfortably and discreetly.
Construction and Materials: Durability and Reliability
The frame is the foundation of any revolver, and the Taurus 605 typically features a robust stainless steel or alloy frame, providing excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. The grips, often made of textured rubber or comfortable wood, offer a secure and ergonomic hold, even in wet conditions. This ensures the shooter maintains a solid grip during rapid fire. The materials used in the Taurus 605 are chosen to provide a long service life and reliable operation in demanding conditions. The cylinder, a critical component, is designed to withstand the high pressures generated by .357 Magnum rounds.
Action and Trigger: Smooth Operation
The Taurus 605 utilizes a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system. This means the revolver can be fired either by pulling the trigger to both cock and release the hammer (double-action) or by manually cocking the hammer and then pulling the trigger for a lighter pull (single-action). The double-action mode allows for quick follow-up shots, particularly useful in stressful situations. The trigger pull weight in double-action mode is typically heavier, requiring a deliberate and firm pull. In single-action mode, the trigger pull is lighter and crisper, enabling more precise shots.
Sights: Acquiring the Target
The Taurus 605 comes equipped with fixed or adjustable sights. The sights provide a simple and effective means of aiming the weapon. The front sight is usually a ramped blade, while the rear sight is often a fixed notch or adjustable sight, offering different levels of accuracy. Regardless of the sight configuration, they provide a clear sight picture for fast target acquisition.
Safety Features: Minimizing Risk
Taurus incorporates several safety features into the 605 to prevent accidental discharges. A transfer bar system prevents the firing pin from striking the primer unless the trigger is fully pulled. This significantly reduces the risk of the gun firing if dropped. The Taurus 605 may also feature a keyed locking system, allowing the owner to physically disable the gun, adding an extra layer of security. These features highlight Taurus’s commitment to safe firearm design.
Variants: Variations and Options
While the core design of the Taurus 605 remains consistent, variations might exist. These might include different finishes, such as matte or polished stainless steel. These aesthetic differences cater to individual preferences.
Performance and Handling
Understanding how a firearm performs is as crucial as knowing its features. The following examines the Taurus 605’s real-world performance.
Recoil Management: Taming the Beast
The .357 Magnum is known for its significant recoil. The Taurus 605, while compact, is designed to manage this recoil effectively. The weight of the revolver, combined with the design of the grip, helps to absorb some of the energy. The .38 Special rounds, with their reduced power, produce significantly less recoil, making them a good option for practice and for shooters who are sensitive to recoil. The ability to handle recoil is a key factor in maintaining accuracy and control, especially during rapid firing.
Accuracy: Putting Rounds on Target
Accuracy with the Taurus 605 depends on a combination of factors, including the shooter’s skill, ammunition choice, and sight picture. Most shooters can achieve effective groups at defensive ranges. The fixed sights provide a reliable aiming point, and with practice, shooters can develop the skills needed to accurately place shots on target. Different ammunition types will impact accuracy.
Reliability: Consistent Performance
The Taurus 605 is generally known for its reliability. The robust construction of a revolver, with its relatively simple mechanism, contributes to its durability. Proper maintenance and cleaning are essential for ensuring continued reliability. When the revolver is well-maintained, it is ready to perform when needed.
Ergonomics: Feel and Fit
The Taurus 605 is designed to fit comfortably in the hand. The grips are designed to provide a secure and ergonomic hold. The controls, like the cylinder release and the trigger, are positioned for easy access. The overall feel of the gun is important for quick and intuitive handling.
Concealed Carry Considerations
Choosing a firearm for concealed carry is a personal decision. The following assesses the Taurus 605’s suitability for this purpose.
Suitability for Concealed Carry: The Right Fit
The Taurus 605’s compact size makes it well-suited for concealed carry. Its small frame, combined with its potent .357 Magnum chambering, gives the user a lot of firepower in a small package. It is often compared to other small revolvers.
Concealment Options: Finding the Right Carry Style
There are several different ways to conceal the Taurus 605. IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters are a popular option, allowing the gun to be carried discreetly. OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters offer a more comfortable carry, but require a loose garment to conceal the gun. Ankle holsters are another choice, best suited for smaller individuals.
Considerations for Concealed Carry: Making the Right Choice
Carrying a concealed firearm comes with significant responsibility. A concealed carrier must be prepared to defend themselves if attacked. Choosing the right holster is just as important as choosing the gun itself. Practice is essential for building proficiency with the firearm. Local laws and regulations must also be carefully followed.
Price and Value
The price of a firearm is an important factor in any purchase. This section examines the cost and value of the Taurus 605.
MSRP and Real-World Price: Cost Considerations
The MSRP of the Taurus 605, set by the manufacturer, is a starting point. The actual price you will pay may vary depending on the retailer, availability, and market demand.
Value Proposition: Getting the Most for Your Money
The Taurus 605 offers a compelling value proposition. It provides the power of a .357 Magnum revolver in a compact and affordable package. Considering the features, performance, and reliability, the Taurus 605 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and powerful personal defense weapon.
Conclusion
The 357 Revolver Taurus 605 is a compelling option in the world of personal defense. Its compact size, powerful chambering, and robust design make it suitable for both experienced shooters and those new to firearms. While it presents a few trade-offs, like the greater recoil of the .357 Magnum, its advantages, including its concealability and ease of use, make it a strong contender for everyday carry.
For anyone seeking a compact, reliable, and powerful revolver, the Taurus 605 warrants serious consideration. It’s a handgun that embodies the fundamental principles of personal protection: a manageable size, enough stopping power, and a design that emphasizes dependability. If you’re looking for a readily available, high-performance handgun, the Taurus 605 deserves a spot at the top of your list.
