The Taurus 605, often referred to as the Taurus 605 Toro, is a compact, five-shot .357 Magnum revolver that has garnered significant attention among both concealed carry enthusiasts and casual shooters. This review will delve into its features, performance, pros, and cons, helping you determine if the Taurus 605 Toro is the right firearm for you.
Design and Features: A Blend of Strength and Compactness
The Taurus 605 Toro boasts a rugged, all-steel construction, making it durable and reliable. Its compact size—a key selling point—makes it highly suitable for concealed carry. The short barrel, typically 2 inches, contributes to its concealability but also affects its accuracy and muzzle velocity compared to longer-barreled revolvers. The small size also makes it surprisingly lightweight for a .357 Magnum, a feature appreciated by many users.
The revolver features a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger mechanism. This means you can either cock the hammer and fire in single-action mode (for a lighter, more precise trigger pull) or fire directly from the double-action mode (for quicker shots). However, the double-action trigger pull is often noted as quite heavy, which may require some practice and adjustment.
Key Features Summarized:
- Caliber: .357 Magnum/.38 Special
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel Length: Typically 2 inches
- Action: Double-action/single-action (DA/SA)
- Construction: All-steel
- Sights: Typically fixed sights
Performance and Accuracy: Real-World Considerations
While the Taurus 605 Toro is compact and powerful, its short barrel length undeniably impacts its accuracy and muzzle velocity. Expect more recoil than with longer-barreled revolvers in the same caliber. This increased recoil can affect accuracy, especially for less experienced shooters. Accurate shot placement at longer ranges will require more practice and skill.
The .357 Magnum cartridge delivers substantial stopping power, but the shorter barrel reduces the velocity of the round, slightly diminishing this advantage. However, the ability to fire .38 Special rounds provides a softer-shooting option for practice or situations requiring less recoil.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros:
- Compact and Concealable: Its small size makes it ideal for concealed carry.
- Powerful Caliber: The .357 Magnum offers impressive stopping power.
- Durable Construction: The all-steel construction ensures reliability.
- Affordable Price: Compared to other revolvers in a similar class, the Taurus 605 is generally more affordable.
- Versatility: It can fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition.
Cons:
- Heavy Recoil: The short barrel amplifies recoil, especially with .357 Magnum rounds.
- Heavy Double-Action Trigger: The DA trigger pull can be quite stiff.
- Reduced Accuracy: The short barrel impacts accuracy at longer ranges.
- Fixed Sights: Fixed sights may limit adjustability for different shooting styles or distances.
Is the Taurus 605 Toro Right for You?
The Taurus 605 Toro is a viable option for those seeking a compact and powerful concealed carry revolver. However, it's crucial to be aware of its limitations. The heavier recoil and less-than-ideal accuracy at longer ranges might not suit all shooters. If you prioritize concealability and stopping power above all else, and are comfortable managing the recoil and practicing to overcome the accuracy limitations, then the Taurus 605 Toro could be a solid choice. Consider renting one or trying it at a range before purchasing to determine if it fits your shooting style and needs. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and adhere to all relevant firearm laws and regulations.
