Taurus 85
Taurus · Pistol · In Production · 1980
Also known as: Model 85
Overview
The Taurus 85 is a compact revolver chambered in .38 Special, manufactured by Taurus since 1980.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 595 g (21.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 168 mm (6.61") |
| Barrel Length | 51 mm (2.01") |
| Height | 117 mm (4.61") |
| Width | 35 mm (1.38") |
| Firing Mechanism | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Type | Double Action Single Action |
| Trigger Pull | 20 N (4.5 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Rotary |
| Muzzle Velocity | 290 m/s (951 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 341 J (252 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 25 m (27 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 900 m (984 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 476 mm (18.74") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blue |
Calibers
- .38 Special · primary — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special, 9x29mmR
- .38 Special +P — also known as .38 Spl +P
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar, Taurus Security System
- Features: Fixed Sights, Rubber Grips, Compact Frame, Swing Out Cylinder, Transfer Bar Safety, Exposed Hammer
Variants
- Taurus 85 Ultra-Lite — Lightweight
- Taurus 85 Total Titanium — Titanium
Service history
Operators
- Brazilian State Police Forces
Production
Production years: 1980-present
One of Taurus's longest-running and highest-volume revolver models
Origin
Country of origin: Brazil
Notes
The Model 85 is rated for .38 Special +P ammunition in steel and alloy-frame variants. Typical barrel lengths include 2 inches and 3 inches. Weight varies from approximately 9.5 ounces for the View model to 21 ounces for standard steel variants. The Model 85 directly competes with Smith & Wesson's Model 642 and similar J-frame revolvers but at a significantly lower price point.
Background
The Taurus Model 85 became a staple of Brazilian law enforcement and security personnel, as well as a popular choice for American concealed carry permit holders seeking an affordable, reliable snub-nose revolver. Its design borrowed heavily from the Smith & Wesson J-frame architecture but introduced Taurus's distinctive Security System feature.