A Legacy of Craftsmanship: The Taurus Story and the Model 66
In the realm of firearms, the revolver holds a special place. Its straightforward design, inherent reliability, and classic aesthetics have made it a favorite among shooters for over a century. Today, the Taurus Model 66, particularly the four-inch barreled variant, stands out as a popular and accessible option for both novice and experienced gun owners alike. This article dives deep into the Taurus Model 66 4 Inch, exploring its history, features, performance, and practical applications.
Before we delve into the specifics of the four-inch model, it’s important to understand the context of its creation. Taurus, a Brazilian firearms manufacturer, has established itself as a prominent player in the industry. Originally known for producing revolvers based on Smith & Wesson designs, Taurus has evolved significantly, now offering a wide array of firearms ranging from pistols and rifles to the iconic revolvers that built its reputation. Their commitment to affordability and innovation has played a significant role in making their products accessible to a broad customer base.
The Model 66 itself represents a cornerstone in the Taurus revolver lineup. It emerged as a reliable and versatile option, filling a niche in the market for a quality revolver at a reasonable price point. Its development reflects Taurus’s ambition to provide dependable firearms suitable for various shooting activities, including self-defense, target practice, and, in some regions, hunting. Over the years, the Model 66 has undergone refinements, improvements in manufacturing processes, and subtle design changes, all contributing to its enduring popularity. It exemplifies the brand’s dedication to offering practical, effective, and well-made firearms. The success of the Taurus Model 66 helped cement Taurus’s reputation for producing durable revolvers.
Delving into the Design: Key Features of the Taurus Model 66 4 Inch
The Taurus Model 66, specifically the four-inch barrel version, offers a balanced set of features, making it a versatile choice. Let’s break down the key aspects of this popular revolver.
At its heart, the Model 66 is chambered for the versatile .357 Magnum cartridge, a round known for its stopping power and effectiveness. The Model 66 can also safely accommodate the .38 Special cartridge, offering shooters a choice of ammunition based on their needs. The .357 Magnum provides significant energy and is well-suited for defensive purposes. Conversely, .38 Special offers a milder recoil, lower cost, and works well in various shooting scenarios. This ammunition flexibility is a significant advantage of the Taurus Model 66.
The four-inch barrel length hits a sweet spot between concealability and performance. This barrel length allows for greater accuracy compared to shorter-barreled revolvers, and it also provides a good balance of portability. While not as compact as a snub-nosed revolver, the four-inch barrel is still reasonably easy to carry, making it a good choice for concealed carry or home defense. The barrel is constructed from high-quality steel, designed for durability and resistance to wear and tear. The rifling within the barrel imparts spin to the bullet, crucial for stabilizing it in flight and enhancing accuracy. The Taurus Model 66’s barrel is designed to withstand the pressures generated by both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds.
The frame of the Taurus Model 66 is typically made of steel or stainless steel. Stainless steel models offer enhanced resistance to corrosion, a significant advantage for those living in humid climates or those who might subject the revolver to frequent exposure to the elements. The frame provides a robust and solid platform for the internal mechanisms, contributing to the revolver’s overall reliability. Finish options vary; blued finishes give a classic appearance, while matte stainless steel provides a modern and practical look, along with excellent corrosion resistance. The finish adds to the aesthetic appeal, while also protecting the metal.
The action of the Taurus Model 66 typically features a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger mechanism. This means the shooter can either manually cock the hammer for single-action firing (resulting in a lighter trigger pull) or pull the trigger fully back for double-action firing (which both cocks the hammer and releases it, resulting in a heavier trigger pull). The cylinder typically holds six rounds. The cylinder’s capacity offers a reasonable balance between firepower and overall size. Loading and unloading involves swinging the cylinder out of the frame, using the ejector rod to remove spent casings, and inserting fresh rounds. The mechanism is designed for smooth and reliable operation.
The sights on the Model 66 often consist of a fixed front sight and an adjustable rear sight. Adjustable rear sights enable the shooter to fine-tune their point of aim for different distances and ammunition types. The sight picture is typically clear and easy to acquire, allowing for accurate shot placement. However, the exact sight configuration can vary depending on the specific model and year of production.
The grips on the Taurus Model 66 are made from a variety of materials, including rubber and wood. Rubber grips provide excellent purchase and absorb recoil effectively. Wooden grips offer a more traditional and aesthetic appeal. The grips’ design influences the revolver’s ergonomics, contributing to comfort and handling. A well-designed grip enhances the shooter’s control and reduces the likelihood of slippage.
The weight and dimensions of the Taurus Model 66, particularly with the four-inch barrel, make it relatively easy to handle and carry. While the exact weight varies depending on the materials used, it’s typically in a range that allows for comfortable shooting. The overall dimensions are compact enough to be concealable with the right holster, while also providing a good sight radius and balance.
Putting it to the Test: Performance and Real-World Applications
The Taurus Model 66 4 Inch excels in several key areas. The accuracy is generally good. With practice, the shooter can achieve tight groupings at reasonable distances. The barrel length and the adjustable sights contribute to this accuracy. The reliability of the Model 66 is well-regarded. Proper maintenance helps ensure the revolver functions smoothly and consistently.
The handling and ergonomics are important considerations. The grip design affects how the revolver feels in the hand. The weight and balance help to mitigate felt recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot.
The Taurus Model 66 finds its place in various applications. It can be a very effective choice for self-defense. Its potent .357 Magnum chambering provides significant stopping power, and the .38 Special provides milder recoil. Many find it is suitable for home defense, where the combination of accuracy, reliability, and cartridge options are advantageous. Target shooting at the range is another frequent use. The controllable recoil and inherent accuracy make it an enjoyable platform for practice. If permitted by local laws and regulations, the Taurus Model 66 can also be used for hunting small to medium-sized game.
Recoil management is an important aspect of shooting any .357 Magnum revolver. The Taurus Model 66, due to its weight, helps to absorb some of the recoil energy. However, the powerful .357 Magnum rounds do generate a significant amount of recoil. Proper grip technique and stance can significantly reduce the felt recoil. For those less accustomed to recoil, starting with .38 Special ammunition is advisable.
Weighing the Options: Pros, Cons, and Considerations
Let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages of the Taurus Model 66 4 Inch are numerous. The accuracy is one of the most significant benefits. The revolver can deliver tight groups at various distances. The reliability is also a key advantage. With proper care and maintenance, the Model 66 provides consistent performance. The affordability is a compelling factor. Compared to revolvers from some competing brands, the Taurus Model 66 often represents excellent value for the money. The versatility is another notable advantage. It’s effective for self-defense, target shooting, and suitable for carrying.
There are a few disadvantages to consider. The trigger pull, particularly in double-action mode, can be relatively heavy for some shooters. The cylinder capacity of six rounds is sometimes less than what is offered by some semi-automatic handguns.
Comparing the Competition: Similar Revolvers in the Market
When comparing the Taurus Model 66 to other revolvers, the factors to consider include price, features, and performance. Smith & Wesson, a well-known and respected brand, offers several .357 Magnum revolvers that compete directly with the Model 66. Ruger is another prominent manufacturer offering reliable revolvers at competitive prices. The Model 66 often distinguishes itself through a blend of features and a generally more affordable price point. While some competing revolvers might have advantages in specific areas, the Taurus Model 66 provides a balanced package that appeals to many shooters.
Maintaining Your Investment: Ownership and Proper Care
Caring for your Taurus Model 66 is essential for its longevity and reliable performance. Cleaning the revolver after each shooting session is important. Regularly cleaning the barrel, cylinder, and moving parts with a quality gun cleaning kit will help remove fouling and debris. Lubrication is also important to keep the mechanism running smoothly.
Proper storage is important. Store the revolver in a secure gun safe or locking case. Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Know the four basic rules of gun safety.
Accessories such as holsters, speed loaders, and grips can enhance the revolver’s functionality and comfort. A high-quality holster allows for safe and convenient carrying. Speed loaders or speed strips speed up the reloading process. Different grip designs can further customize the handling.
The Voice of Experience: User Reviews and Real-World Insights
Reviews from users provide valuable insights. Many owners appreciate the Taurus Model 66’s affordability, accuracy, and reliability. Users often comment on the revolver’s ease of use and versatility. Some users, however, may mention issues with the trigger pull. Many online forums and review sites allow owners to share their experiences.
In Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Taurus Model 66 4 Inch
The Taurus Model 66 4 Inch is a well-regarded revolver. It provides a practical and versatile solution. The combination of the .357 Magnum (and .38 Special) chambering, the balanced 4-inch barrel, and a solid design make it a suitable choice for a wide range of purposes, from self-defense to target shooting. Its affordability and ease of use are factors in its continued popularity.
If you are in the market for a reliable and accurate revolver, the Taurus Model 66 4 Inch is worth consideration. Its legacy of good performance, combined with modern production methods, makes it a compelling option.
