The Taurus 605 is a compact, five-shot, small-frame revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, specifically engineered for deep concealment and self-defense. Since its introduction in 1995, it has established itself as a rugged and affordable alternative to high-end snub-nosed revolvers. Built on a solid steel frame, the 605 offers a balance of significant "stopping power" and portability, making it a staple in the carry rotation of many defensive shooters.

Defining the Taurus 605 Performance Profile

The Taurus 605 operates on a traditional double-action/single-action (DA/SA) mechanism. This design provides users with two distinct firing modes: a long, heavy double-action pull for defensive speed and a crisp, light single-action pull for deliberate accuracy when the hammer is manually cocked.

One of the primary reasons the 605 continues to dominate the "budget-friendly" segment is its dual-caliber capability. While it is chambered for the potent .357 Magnum, it safely chambers and fires .38 Special and .38 Special +P rounds. This versatility is crucial for training; many users choose to practice with lower-recoil .38 Special ammunition to build fundamental skills before finishing their session with a cylinder of full-power .357 Magnum defensive loads.

Core Technical Specifications

  • Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P
  • Capacity: 5 Rounds
  • Barrel Length: 2 inches (Standard) or 3 inches (Defender models)
  • Overall Length: 6.50 inches (2-inch model)
  • Weight: 24.00 oz (Unloaded)
  • Frame Material: Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel
  • Action: DA/SA
  • Safety: Transfer Bar mechanism

The 24-ounce weight is a deliberate design choice. In the world of ultra-light revolvers, such as those weighing under 15 ounces, the recoil of a .357 Magnum can be physically punishing and difficult to control. The all-steel construction of the Taurus 605 provides enough mass to help soak up the "snap" of magnum loads, allowing for faster follow-up shots compared to its polymer or scandium-framed competitors.

The Evolution of the 605 Series: From Standard to T.O.R.O.

Taurus has expanded the 605 lineup significantly to meet modern tactical requirements. Understanding the differences between these models is essential for choosing the right tool for your specific carry environment.

The Standard 605 Snub-Nose

The classic 2-inch barrel model is designed for maximum concealability. It features fixed iron sights—a ramp front and a gutter-style rear notch. This setup is virtually snag-proof, making it ideal for pocket carry or inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters. The rubber overmolded grips feature finger grooves that provide a secure purchase even when hands are sweaty or under stress.

The 605 Defender

The Defender series steps up the performance with a 3-inch barrel and an extended grip. The extra inch of barrel length does two things: it increases the muzzle velocity of the .357 Magnum cartridge, ensuring better expansion of defensive hollow points, and it provides a longer sight radius for improved accuracy. Most Defender models also come with upgraded front sights, often featuring a tritium night sight insert for low-light engagements.

The 605 T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optics Ready Option)

The T.O.R.O. variant represents a major innovation in the revolver market. It is one of the first small-frame revolvers to feature a factory-installed optics plate. Compatible with the Holosun K footprint, this model allows shooters to mount a micro red dot sight. In our testing, adding a red dot to a snub-nosed revolver significantly compensates for the short sight radius, allowing for precise hits at distances previously thought difficult for a 3-inch barrel firearm.

The 605 Poly Protector

For those prioritizing weight over recoil management, the Poly Protector utilizes a polymer frame with steel reinforcements in critical areas. It is lighter than the all-steel version, which makes it more comfortable for all-day carry, but it requires a high level of grip strength and recoil control when firing full-power magnum loads.

Ballistics and Ammunition Choice: .357 Magnum vs. .38 Special

Choosing the right ammunition for the Taurus 605 is a matter of balancing terminal performance with shootability.

The .357 Magnum Advantage

A .357 Magnum round fired from a 2-inch barrel typically achieves a muzzle velocity between 1,150 and 1,250 feet per second (fps) depending on the grain weight. This high velocity translates to significant kinetic energy and reliable penetration through thick clothing or barriers. However, the trade-off is a massive muzzle flash and a concussive blast that can be disorienting in indoor or low-light environments.

The .38 Special +P Alternative

Many experienced shooters prefer .38 Special +P for short-barreled revolvers. These rounds offer a significant upgrade over standard .38 Special without the overwhelming recoil of the Magnum. Modern hollow-point designs, such as the Speer Gold Dot Short Barrel, are specifically engineered to expand at the lower velocities produced by a 2-inch barrel, offering a "sweet spot" of control and effectiveness.

Practical Performance: The Real-World Shooting Experience

When you take a Taurus 605 to the range for the first time, there are several behavioral characteristics of the firearm that you should expect.

The Break-In Period

Like many mass-produced revolvers, the Taurus 605 often leaves the factory with a "gritty" double-action trigger pull. In our observations, the trigger weight typically hovers around 10 to 12 pounds in double-action. However, this is not a permanent state. The internal contact surfaces require a break-in period. After approximately 200 to 300 cycles—either through live fire or dry firing with snap caps—the action noticeably smooths out as the sear and hammer surfaces "mate."

Accuracy at Defensive Distances

Despite its short barrel, the 605 is capable of surprising accuracy. At standard defensive distances of 3 to 7 yards, the 605 can easily maintain 2-inch groups. When shifted to single-action mode, the trigger pull drops to a crisp 4 to 5 pounds, allowing for accurate shots out to 15 or 25 yards. The limiting factor is usually the shooter's ability to manage the small sight picture and the heavy double-action trigger.

Recoil Management

Recoil is subjective, but in a 24-ounce gun, the .357 Magnum is "snappy." The factory rubber grips are excellent at absorbing shock, but the muzzle flip is significant. Shooters should utilize a high-tang grip, placing the hand as high as possible on the backstrap to mitigate the lever effect of the recoil. For those with larger hands, the longer grips found on the Defender series provide much-needed surface area for control.

Concealed Carry Considerations: Holsters and Weight

Carrying a steel-framed revolver requires a different approach than carrying a modern polymer "wonder nine."

Holster Selection

The 1.4-inch width of the cylinder is the widest point of the 605. While this is thicker than many subcompact semi-automatics, the rounded contours of the revolver tend to "melt" against the body, making it less prone to printing (showing the outline of the gun through clothing).

  • IWB (Inside the Waistband): A high-quality Kydex or leather IWB holster with a "claw" or "wing" is recommended to tuck the grip into the body.
  • Pocket Carry: Only recommended for the 2-inch model in a dedicated pocket holster that covers the trigger guard and keeps the gun upright.
  • Appendix Carry: The short overall length of the 605 makes it very comfortable for appendix carry (AIWB), as the barrel does not poke into the thigh when seated.

Managing the 24-Ounce Weight

While 24 ounces is excellent for shooting, it can feel heavy by the end of a 12-hour day if not supported by a proper gun belt. A standard department store belt will sag under the weight of an all-steel 605. A dedicated, stiffened gun belt is essential to distribute the weight across the hips and keep the firearm securely in place.

Taurus 605 vs. The Competition

To understand the value proposition of the 605, we must compare it to its primary rivals in the small-frame .357 market.

Taurus 605 vs. Ruger SP101

The Ruger SP101 is widely considered the "gold standard" for small-frame magnum durability. It is heavier (approx. 26 oz) and features a more robust, overbuilt design. However, the SP101 often costs $200 to $300 more than the Taurus 605. While the Ruger may have a slightly smoother factory action, the Taurus offers 90% of the performance at a significantly lower price point.

Taurus 605 vs. Smith & Wesson Model 642/442

The S&W J-frame series is the benchmark for concealability. The 642 is significantly lighter (around 15 oz) because it is made of aluminum alloy. However, the 642 is usually chambered only in .38 Special. Firing a .357 Magnum through a J-frame of similar weight (like the S&W 340PD) is an extremely painful experience. The Taurus 605 is the better choice for shooters who actually intend to train with and carry Magnum loads.

Taurus 605 vs. Kimber K6s

The Kimber K6s is a premium six-shot .357 Magnum that fits into the same footprint as the five-shot Taurus. It features a superior trigger and better sights right out of the box. But with an MSRP often exceeding $1,000, it exists in a different market tier. For the price of one Kimber, a user can purchase a Taurus 605, a high-quality holster, and a thousand rounds of practice ammunition.

Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability

The simplicity of the revolver design is one of the 605’s greatest assets. Unlike semi-automatics, it is not sensitive to "limp-wristing" and does not rely on magazine spring tension or slide velocity to function.

Cleaning the Cylinder and Forcing Cone

When shooting .38 Special in a .357 Magnum cylinder, a carbon ring can develop inside the chambers because the .38 casing is slightly shorter. If this ring is not cleaned out, it can prevent .357 Magnum rounds from seating properly. Regular cleaning of the cylinder and the forcing cone (where the bullet jumps from the cylinder to the barrel) is vital for maintaining reliability.

The Taurus Lifetime Repair Policy

Taurus provides a lifetime repair policy that often follows the firearm, not just the original owner. This adds a layer of security for the buyer. While Taurus had a mixed reputation for quality control in the early 2000s, their modern production under "Zero Tolerance" standards has seen a significant increase in consistency and reliability.

Is the Taurus 605 Right for You?

The Taurus 605 is an ideal choice for several types of users:

  1. The Budget-Conscious Defender: If you need a reliable, powerful defensive tool but cannot justify $800+ for a revolver, the 605 is the clear winner.
  2. The New Revolver Shooter: Its DA/SA action is an excellent platform for learning the fundamentals of revolver manipulation.
  3. The Deep Concealment Carrier: The snub-nosed profile excels in environments where printing is not an option.

It is less ideal for those who are extremely recoil-sensitive or those who demand a competition-grade trigger out of the box without putting in the work of a break-in period.

Summary

The Taurus 605 .357 Magnum is a testament to the idea that a defensive firearm does not need to be expensive to be effective. By combining a time-tested steel frame with modern features like the T.O.R.O. optics system, Taurus has kept the 605 relevant in a market dominated by polymer semi-automatics. While the trigger may require some initial patience and the recoil of the .357 Magnum requires respect, the 605 remains a dependable, versatile, and powerful companion for personal protection.

FAQ

Can I dry fire my Taurus 605?

Yes, you can safely dry fire the Taurus 605. It uses a transfer bar safety mechanism, meaning the hammer does not rest directly on the firing pin. However, using snap caps is highly recommended during extended dry fire sessions to cushion the firing pin and provide a more realistic trigger feel.

How do I reduce the felt recoil of the .357 Magnum in this gun?

The most effective way to manage recoil is to ensure you have a proper grip. Many users also swap the factory grips for larger aftermarket options from companies like Hogue or VZ Grips, which provide more surface area for the hand to distribute the force. Alternatively, carrying .38 Special +P ammunition provides a significant reduction in recoil while maintaining defensive effectiveness.

What is the purpose of the key lock on the hammer?

This is the Taurus Security System (TSS). It allows the owner to use a specialized key to lock the action, preventing the hammer from being cocked or the trigger from being pulled. It is an additional safety layer for home storage, though it should never replace a dedicated gun safe.

Will the Taurus 605 fit in J-frame holsters?

Generally, yes. The Taurus 605 is very similar in size to the Smith & Wesson J-frame. Most "soft" holsters (leather or nylon) designed for the S&W 642 or 60 will fit the Taurus 605 perfectly. However, for precision-molded Kydex holsters, it is always best to buy a model specifically molded for the Taurus 605 to ensure proper retention.

How many rounds is the break-in period?

Most users and experts suggest a break-in period of 200 to 300 rounds. This allows the internal springs and machined surfaces to smooth each other out. You will notice the double-action pull becomes more consistent and less "gritty" as you reach this milestone.