The Taurus 66 Combat Is the Seven Shot Defensive Powerhouse Revolver Fans Needed

The concept of a "fighting revolver" has undergone a radical transformation in recent years. While semi-automatic pistols dominate the modern defensive market, a specialized segment of shooters has remained loyal to the reliability and simplicity of the wheelgun. However, traditional revolvers often lacked the capacity and optical flexibility of their polymer-framed counterparts. The release of the Taurus 66 Combat addresses these historical shortcomings head-on, delivering a high-capacity, optics-ready, and carry-tuned platform that marks a significant evolution in the Taurus lineup.

This isn't just a cosmetic update to the venerable Model 66. It is a purposeful reimagining of what a medium-frame defensive tool should look like in 2025. By combining a 7-round cylinder with a 3-inch barrel and the Taurus Optics Ready Option (T.O.R.O.), Taurus has produced a firearm that balances the raw power of the .357 Magnum with the precision required for modern defensive encounters.

The Engineering Behind the Seven Shot Cylinder

The most immediate advantage of the Taurus 66 Combat is its 7-round capacity. In the world of revolvers, every extra round is a 16% increase in firepower, which can be a decisive factor in a defensive scenario. What makes the 66 Combat particularly impressive is that Taurus managed to fit this seventh round into the same frame space typically reserved for six-shot cylinders.

This feat of engineering does more than just boost capacity. When designers move from six to seven chambers in a medium-frame cylinder, the geometry of the locking slots changes. In a traditional six-shot revolver, the locking bolt notch is often cut directly over the thinnest part of the chamber wall. By moving to a seven-shot configuration, the locking slots are relocated between the charge holes. This results in more steel surrounding each chamber at the point of peak pressure, arguably making the cylinder stronger and more resistant to the high pressures of modern .357 Magnum loads.

From a practical standpoint, the 7-round cylinder remains compatible with most speed loaders designed for the S&W 686 Plus. In our testing, the timing of the cylinder was impeccable, with the locking bolt engaging securely before the hammer fell in every cycle. The use of an unfluted cylinder design further increases the mass of the wheel, which helps with heat dissipation and provides a robust, "tank-like" aesthetic that many shooters prefer.

T.O.R.O System Brings Modern Optics to the Revolver World

For decades, revolver shooters were limited to iron sights—usually a fixed notch at the rear and a pinned blade at the front. While functional, iron sights are inherently slower to acquire than a red dot, especially in low-light conditions. The Taurus 66 Combat breaks this limitation with the T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optics Ready Option) system.

The top strap of the 66 Combat is drilled and tapped to accept a mounting plate (RMSc footprint). This allows for the direct installation of micro red dots like the Holosun 407k or Shield RMSC. Mounting an optic on a revolver fundamentally changes the shooting experience. Instead of struggling to align a front sight, rear notch, and a moving target, the shooter simply places the red dot on the threat.

In our range evaluations, the red dot allowed for significantly tighter groups at distances beyond 15 yards. Because the 66 Combat is a double-action-only (DAO) firearm, having a clear point of aim is crucial. The red dot provides a consistent visual reference that helps the shooter manage the trigger press without losing target focus. It should be noted that the factory fiber-optic front sight is excellent for backup use, though it does not co-witness with most optics. However, the serrations on the top of the barrel do a fantastic job of reducing glare, ensuring that your sight picture remains clear even in bright midday sun.

Mastering the Double Action Only Trigger for Real World Encounters

The heart of any defensive revolver is its trigger, and the 66 Combat features a factory-tuned Combat DAO trigger that defies the reputation of mass-produced revolvers. Traditionally, a double-action trigger pull of 12 to 14 pounds was common. The Taurus 66 Combat, however, arrives with a pull weight consistently measuring between 7.5 and 8 pounds.

Why Double Action Only?

There is a tactical reason for the DAO configuration. In a high-stress defensive situation, the fine motor skills required to cock a hammer for a single-action shot often disappear. Furthermore, an exposed hammer spur is a notorious snag point when drawing from a holster or under a garment. By bobbing the hammer and removing the single-action notch, Taurus has created a "slick" profile that is optimized for a fast, clean draw.

The trigger on the 66 Combat provides what shooters call a "rolling break." There is no significant stacking or "wall" before the shot breaks. Instead, the resistance is consistent throughout the entire arc of travel. This consistency allows the shooter to develop a cadence. During rapid-fire drills, we found that the trigger reset was positive and energetic, allowing for fast follow-up shots that rivaled semi-autos in terms of split times.

Internal Safety Mechanisms

Safety is paramount in a carry gun. The 66 Combat utilizes a transfer bar safety system. The hammer cannot strike the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled completely to the rear. This design makes the firearm "drop safe" and allows for the safe carriage of a full seven rounds in the cylinder. The lack of an external manual safety is compensated for by the deliberate, intentional nature of the double-action trigger press.

Ballistics and Handling of the Three Inch Barrel

The choice of a 3-inch barrel on the 66 Combat was not arbitrary. It represents the "FBI standard"—the perfect compromise between ballistic performance, sight radius, and concealability.

Velocity vs. Concealability

A 2-inch "snub nose" revolver often sacrifices too much velocity, particularly with .357 Magnum rounds, which need more barrel length to burn their powder efficiently. Conversely, a 4-inch or 6-inch barrel is difficult to hide under a light shirt. The 3-inch barrel of the 66 Combat allows .357 Magnum loads to reach their potential, often providing an extra 100 to 150 feet per second (fps) of velocity over a 2-inch barrel.

In our chronograph testing with 125-grain .357 Magnum loads, we saw average velocities around 1,300 fps. This is plenty of energy to ensure reliable expansion and penetration for modern defensive hollow points. When switching to .38 Special +P loads, the 3-inch barrel still provided enough velocity (around 900 fps) to make them a viable, lower-recoil alternative for those who find full-house magnums too punishing.

Recoil Management

Weight is your friend when it comes to recoil. At 36.5 ounces, the 66 Combat is an all-steel firearm. While this is heavier than a polymer pistol, that mass serves a critical purpose: it tames the snap of the .357 Magnum. Combined with the Hogue Bantam-style rubber monogrips, the 66 Combat is surprisingly comfortable to shoot. The rubber grips absorb much of the "sting" associated with magnum loads, and the finger grooves ensure that the gun doesn't shift in your hand during rapid fire.

Taurus 66 Combat vs Standard Model 66

It is important to understand where the 66 Combat sits in the broader Taurus catalog. The standard Model 66 has been a staple for decades, typically offered with a 4-inch or 6-inch barrel, adjustable target sights, and an exposed hammer for single-action capability.

The Standard Model 66 is a "do-it-all" revolver, but it is not optimized for concealment. The 66 Combat is a specialized tool. It trades the precision of a single-action target trigger for the reliability and snag-free profile of a DAO carry gun. It trades the long sight radius of a 6-inch barrel for the portability of a 3-inch barrel. For a shooter looking for a "fighting" revolver, the 66 Combat is the clear winner.

Carrying the 36 Ounce Stainless Steel Frame

The 66 Combat's weight is its most debated feature. At over two pounds unloaded, it requires a high-quality holster and a sturdy gun belt. However, the "K-frame" compatibility of the 66 Combat means that there is already a massive aftermarket for holsters.

Holster Compatibility

During our evaluation, we tested the 66 Combat with a Galco Summer Comfort inside-the-waistband (IWB) leather holster. Because the frame dimensions closely mirror the Smith & Wesson K-frame, finding a fit was seamless. The 3-inch barrel length is particularly comfortable for IWB carry, as it doesn't poke the wearer's hip as much as a 4-inch barrel when seated.

The matte stainless finish is another carry-friendly feature. Unlike blued steel, which can rust quickly when exposed to body heat and perspiration, the stainless steel of the 66 Combat is highly resistant to corrosion. A simple wipe-down at the end of the day is usually sufficient to keep the firearm in pristine condition.

Ergonomics in Action

The full-length underlug on the barrel adds weight to the front of the gun, which helps with "tracking" during rapid strings of fire. When shooting from retention (close to the body), the snag-free hammer and rounded edges of the Hogue grips prevent the gun from catching on clothing. The cylinder release is a standard push-forward type that is easy to reach with the thumb, and the ejector rod is long enough to clear spent .357 casings completely—a common issue with shorter "snubby" revolvers.

Range Performance and Real-World Reliability

A defensive firearm is only as good as its reliability. Over a 500-round test period, we experienced zero malfunctions with the Taurus 66 Combat. We tested a variety of ammunition, from 158-grain lead round nose .38 Specials to 125-grain jacketed hollow point .357 Magnums.

Accuracy Results

At 10 yards, firing in rapid double-action, we were able to keep all seven rounds in a 3-inch circle. When slowed down to maximize precision, the red dot allowed us to punch a single ragged hole in the center of the target. This level of accuracy is more than sufficient for defensive distances and speaks to the quality of the 3-inch barrel's rifling and the smoothness of the DAO trigger.

The 66 Combat's secondary yoke lock (a front detent) ensures that the cylinder remains tightly aligned with the barrel even under heavy recoil. This "three-point" lockup (at the rear of the cylinder, the yoke, and the ejector rod) is a feature typically found on much more expensive revolvers, and its inclusion here is a testament to Taurus's commitment to durability.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Taurus 66 Combat is a bold statement in the revolver market. It acknowledges that while the revolver is an old design, it doesn't have to be an obsolete one. By integrating modern optics, increasing capacity to seven rounds, and refining the trigger for a smooth double-action-only experience, Taurus has created one of the most capable defensive wheelguns available today.

For the shooter who values the reliability of a revolver but refuses to compromise on modern features, the 66 Combat is a compelling choice. It is heavy enough to be shootable, compact enough to be concealable, and versatile enough to handle everything from light .38 Special practice rounds to full-power .357 Magnum defensive loads. In an era of "plastic" pistols, the 66 Combat stands out as a rugged, stainless steel alternative that is ready for the fight.

Summary of Key Benefits

• 7-Round Capacity: 16% more firepower than traditional six-shot revolvers.
• Optics-Ready (T.O.R.O.): Easily mount a red dot for faster target acquisition.
• DAO Trigger: Smooth 7.5-pound pull optimized for defensive stress.
• 3-Inch Barrel: The ideal balance of velocity and concealability.
• All-Steel Construction: Durable matte stainless steel that tames magnum recoil.

FAQ

What is the best holster for the Taurus 66 Combat? The 66 Combat is generally compatible with holsters designed for S&W K-frame revolvers with 3-inch barrels. Look for high-quality leather IWB or OWB holsters that are "red dot compatible" if you plan on mounting an optic.

Can I shoot .38 Special through the Taurus 66 Combat? Yes. The 66 Combat is chambered in .357 Magnum, which means it can safely fire all .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition. This is a great way to practice with less recoil and lower cost.

Does the red dot sight come with the gun? No, the red dot sight is sold separately. However, the Taurus 66 Combat comes with the necessary mounting hardware (depending on the package) or is drilled and tapped for the T.O.R.O. plate system.

Is the Taurus 66 Combat too heavy for daily carry? At 36.5 ounces, it is on the heavier side for a carry gun (similar to a steel 1911). However, with a proper gun belt and a well-designed holster, many people find it comfortable for all-day carry. The weight is a trade-off for significantly better recoil control.

Is the DAO trigger difficult to learn? Double-action-only triggers require practice, especially if you are used to single-action or striker-fired triggers. However, the 66 Combat's trigger is exceptionally smooth, making the learning curve much shorter than on older, heavier revolver designs.