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Taurus Snub Nose Revolvers: A Concealed Carry Deep Dive

Considering a 5-shot Taurus snub nose revolver for concealed carry? You’re not alone. These compact revolvers offer a blend of simplicity, power, and concealability that appeals to many gun owners. But are they the right choice for you? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of Taurus snub nose revolvers, providing detailed reviews, expert insights, and practical considerations to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore the pros and cons, discuss specific models, and analyze their suitability for concealed carry, ensuring you have all the information you need for confident and responsible firearm ownership.

Understanding the Appeal of Snub Nose Revolvers for Concealed Carry

Snub nose revolvers, characterized by their short barrels (typically 2-3 inches), have a long history as popular concealed carry options. Their compact size makes them easy to conceal under clothing, while their simple operation and inherent reliability offer peace of mind. The Taurus line of 5-shot revolvers brings these advantages to the table at a generally accessible price point, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and those new to concealed carry.

However, it’s crucial to understand the trade-offs. The short barrel results in a shorter sight radius, potentially impacting accuracy at longer distances. Recoil can also be more pronounced compared to larger, heavier firearms. Furthermore, the limited capacity of five rounds requires careful consideration of your personal defense needs.

Key Taurus Snub Nose Models for Concealed Carry: A Detailed Overview

Taurus offers several 5-shot snub nose revolvers suitable for concealed carry. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular models:

Taurus 856: A modern iteration of the classic .38 Special snub nose, the 856 features an all-steel frame for durability and recoil absorption. It’s available in various finishes and configurations, including models with shrouded hammers for snag-free carry.
Taurus 605: Chambered in .357 Magnum, the 605 offers increased stopping power in a compact package. Its robust construction can handle the higher pressures of the .357 Magnum cartridge, but recoil can be significant, especially for inexperienced shooters.
Taurus 905: A unique offering, the 905 is chambered in 9mm and utilizes stellar clips for cartridge extraction. This allows users to leverage the readily available and relatively inexpensive 9mm ammunition in a revolver platform.

Each model has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your individual preferences, shooting experience, and intended use.

Analyzing the Features: What Makes a Taurus Snub Nose Stand Out?

Taurus snub nose revolvers share several common features that contribute to their suitability for concealed carry:

Compact Size and Weight: Designed for easy concealment, these revolvers are small and lightweight, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort during all-day carry.
Simple Operation: Revolvers are known for their straightforward operation, with no manual safeties to disengage in a stressful situation.
Reliability: With fewer moving parts than semi-automatic pistols, revolvers are generally considered to be more reliable, reducing the risk of malfunctions.
Fixed Sights: While not as precise as adjustable sights, fixed sights are robust and less likely to be damaged during everyday carry.
Ergonomic Grips: Many Taurus snub nose revolvers come with comfortable grips that enhance control and reduce felt recoil.

However, it’s also important to consider the limitations. The small grip size can be challenging for individuals with larger hands, and the trigger pull can be heavy on some models. Thoroughly evaluating these features is essential before making a purchase.

The Advantages of Choosing a Taurus Snub Nose for Concealed Carry

Choosing a Taurus snub nose revolver for concealed carry offers several distinct advantages:

Affordability: Taurus revolvers are generally more budget-friendly than comparable models from other manufacturers, making them accessible to a wider range of individuals.
Ease of Concealment: The compact size and rounded edges of these revolvers make them easy to conceal under various clothing styles.
Reliability: Revolvers are known for their inherent reliability, providing peace of mind in a self-defense situation.
Simplicity: The simple operation of a revolver makes it easy to learn and use, even under stress.
Stopping Power: Chambered in .38 Special or .357 Magnum, these revolvers offer sufficient stopping power for self-defense.

These advantages make Taurus snub nose revolvers a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and affordable concealed carry firearm. Users consistently report satisfaction with the concealability and ease of use, especially for those new to firearms.

In-Depth Review: The Taurus 856 .38 Special Snub Nose

The Taurus 856 is a popular choice in the Taurus snub nose lineup, and for good reason. It provides a good balance of size, weight, and caliber, making it a viable option for many concealed carriers. This review offers an in-depth look at its features, performance, and overall suitability for concealed carry.

User Experience and Usability

From a practical standpoint, the Taurus 856 is relatively easy to handle. The grip is comfortable for most hand sizes, and the controls are intuitive. The double-action/single-action trigger provides versatility, allowing for both deliberate shots and rapid follow-up shots. However, the double-action trigger pull can be heavy, requiring practice to master. The gun is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, and its small size makes it ideal for inside-the-waistband carry.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Taurus 856 delivers adequate performance for its intended purpose. Accuracy is acceptable at typical self-defense distances (7-10 yards), although the short sight radius can make precise shots challenging at longer ranges. The .38 Special cartridge provides sufficient stopping power for self-defense, especially when loaded with modern defensive ammunition. Recoil is manageable, even for smaller shooters. In our experience, the 856 is a reliable performer, with minimal malfunctions when using quality ammunition.

Pros

Affordable Price: The Taurus 856 is one of the most affordable snub nose revolvers on the market.
Compact and Lightweight: Its small size and lightweight construction make it easy to conceal and carry comfortably.
Reliable Performance: The 856 is a reliable performer with minimal malfunctions when using quality ammunition.
Comfortable Grip: The grip is comfortable for most hand sizes, enhancing control and reducing felt recoil.
Versatile Trigger: The double-action/single-action trigger provides versatility for both deliberate and rapid shots.

Cons/Limitations

Heavy Trigger Pull: The double-action trigger pull can be heavy, requiring practice to master.
Short Sight Radius: The short sight radius can make precise shots challenging at longer ranges.
Limited Capacity: The 5-round capacity may be insufficient for some individuals.
Finish Quality: The finish quality is not as high as some other revolvers on the market.

Ideal User Profile

The Taurus 856 is best suited for individuals who are new to concealed carry, those seeking an affordable and reliable self-defense firearm, or those who prefer the simplicity and reliability of a revolver. It’s also a good option for individuals with smaller hands who may find larger semi-automatic pistols difficult to handle.

Key Alternatives

Alternatives to the Taurus 856 include the Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers and the Ruger LCR. Smith & Wesson J-Frames are known for their high quality and smooth trigger pulls, but they are also more expensive. The Ruger LCR offers a lightweight polymer frame and a smooth trigger pull, but it can be more challenging to control due to its light weight.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Taurus 856 is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable snub nose revolver for concealed carry. While it has some limitations, its advantages outweigh its drawbacks for many users. We recommend the Taurus 856 to individuals who prioritize affordability, reliability, and ease of concealment. However, we also recommend practicing regularly with the firearm to master the trigger pull and become proficient in its use.

The Value of a Taurus Snub Nose Revolver for Self-Defense

Ultimately, the value of a Taurus snub nose revolver lies in its ability to provide a readily accessible and reliable means of self-defense. Its compact size and simple operation make it a practical choice for everyday carry, while its chambering in .38 Special or .357 Magnum offers sufficient stopping power to protect yourself and your loved ones. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a reliable firearm readily available is a significant benefit in today’s world.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

Choosing a concealed carry firearm is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. While Taurus snub nose revolvers offer several advantages, they are not the right choice for everyone. It’s essential to thoroughly research different models, handle them in person if possible, and practice regularly with your chosen firearm to ensure you are proficient in its use. By taking the time to make an informed decision, you can choose a firearm that will provide you with years of reliable service and peace of mind. Share your experiences with Taurus snub nose revolvers in the comments below and help others make an informed decision.