The Taurus 85 is a small-frame, 5-shot double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .38 Special +P, designed for concealed carry and personal defense with traditional J-frame-size dimensions.
Standard steel variants feature 2-inch or 3-inch barrels measuring approximately 6.5-6.75 inches in overall length and weighing 17-21 ounces unloaded, while ultra-light aluminum-frame derivatives like the View model reduced weight to just 9.5 ounces.
The revolver utilizes steel or alloy frame construction depending on variant, a 5-shot steel cylinder, transfer-bar safety system, fixed ramp front sight, integral rear notch, and rubber grips on most models. Available finishes included blued, stainless, and special editions across the model's long production run. Post-1997 examples incorporate the Taurus Security System—a keyed internal lock for storage security.
The Model 85 served for decades as Taurus's core small-frame .38 carry revolver before being phased out and effectively replaced by the 6-shot 856 family beginning in 2018, representing a capacity and design evolution rather than discontinuation due to safety defects.
What Made the Taurus 85 a Long-Standing Budget Snub-Nose Revolver?
The Taurus 85 delivered traditional J-frame-size .38 Special concealed carry capability at budget-friendly prices. This small-frame revolver represented Taurus's answer to Smith & Wesson's dominant J-frame line, offering similar dimensions, capacity, and defensive capability at prices often $100-200 below comparable S&W models.
Forjas Taurus S.A., the Brazilian firearms manufacturer operating through Taurus USA for American distribution, built the Model 85 as their flagship small-frame defensive revolver. Taurus established its reputation producing affordable firearms with decent quality, targeting budget-conscious shooters and those entering defensive gun ownership.
The company's business model focused on delivering functional firearms with acceptable quality control at prices significantly below premium American manufacturers.
The Model 85 predated the 2000s and appeared widely in U.S. catalogs by the 1990s and early 2000s, though exact introduction dates remain unspecified in readily available sources. The revolver served continuously for decades as Taurus's J-frame-size offering, maintaining traditional double-action/single-action operation, 5-shot capacity, and small-frame dimensions that shooters recognized from Smith & Wesson's influential designs.
Various barrel lengths, finishes, and frame materials appeared across the production run as Taurus experimented with weight reduction and special editions, but the core design remained consistent—a simple, reliable, budget-priced snub-nose .38.
By 2018, Taurus engineers expanded the Model 85's cylinder diameter and frame window to safely accommodate six rounds of .38 Special +P, launching the resulting platform as the Model 856.
This evolution effectively replaced the 85 as Taurus's primary small-frame revolver, offering 20% greater capacity while maintaining similar dimensions and pricing. The shift from 85 to 856 reflects market demands for increased capacity and represents normal product evolution rather than discontinuation driven by safety concerns or commercial failure.
Taurus designed the Model 85 specifically for concealed carry and personal defense applications. The compact dimensions, lightweight construction, and powerful .38 Special +P chambering made it suitable for pocket carry, ankle holsters, purse carry, or inside-the-waistband concealment.
The exposed hammer maintained traditional revolver versatility—shooters could fire entirely in double-action mode for defensive speed or manually cock the hammer for single-action precision when circumstances allowed.
The transfer-bar safety system enabled safe carry with all five chambers loaded, eliminating the old single-action practice of carrying with an empty chamber under the hammer.
What Are the Complete Specifications of the Taurus 85?
The Taurus 85 chambers .38 Special ammunition with +P rating in standard steel and alloy variants, holding 5 rounds in its cylinder and measuring approximately 6.5-6.75 inches in overall length with standard 2-inch barrels, while weighing between 17-21 ounces unloaded for conventional steel models or as little as 9.5 ounces for ultra-light aluminum-frame variants.
Caliber and Pressure Ratings
The Model 85 chambered .38 Special as its sole caliber, with most standard steel and alloy-frame variants rated for .38 Special +P pressures, allowing use of both standard-pressure and higher-pressure +P defensive ammunition.
This dual capability provided shooters flexibility to practice with mild standard-pressure loads while carrying more potent +P ammunition for defense. Special ultra-light variants like the 85VTA "View" carried ratings for standard-pressure .38 Special only, prohibiting +P use due to concerns about frame stress in extremely lightweight construction.
Shooters needed to verify specific variant ratings, as mixing ultra-light frames with +P ammunition could accelerate wear or create safety concerns.
Cylinder Capacity
The 5-round cylinder capacity defined the Model 85 throughout its production run, distinguishing it from the subsequent 6-shot 856 evolution.
Five rounds represented the traditional small-frame .38 Special standard established by Smith & Wesson's J-frames, balancing cylinder diameter against overall size and weight.
The steel cylinder's five chambers provided adequate defensive capability for civilian concealed carry while keeping dimensions compact. Unlike semi-automatic magazines that can be swapped quickly, the fixed cylinder required manual reloading cartridge-by-cartridge or through speedloaders, making the initial five rounds critically important.
Barrel Length Options
The most common Model 85 configuration featured a 2-inch barrel—the classic snub-nose length optimizing concealability while maintaining reasonable defensive accuracy.
This barrel length became synonymous with concealed carry revolvers, providing adequate velocity for defensive ammunition while keeping overall dimensions minimal. Taurus also offered 3-inch barrel variants providing slightly increased sight radius for improved accuracy, modestly higher velocities, and better balance during shooting, though at the cost of increased concealability challenges.
The ultra-light 85VTA "View" employed an extremely short 1.41-inch barrel, prioritizing ultimate compactness and weight reduction over velocity or accuracy.
Dimensional Specifications
Overall length for standard 2-inch Model 85 revolvers measured approximately 6.5-6.75 inches—compact enough for pocket carry or comfortable concealment in most holster positions.
Height and width followed typical small-frame revolver proportions, with the 5-shot cylinder creating a relatively slim profile compared to 6-shot or larger-frame alternatives. The compact dimensions allowed the Model 85 to fill similar carrying roles as Smith & Wesson J-frames, tucking comfortably inside waistbands, jacket pockets, or purses without excessive bulk or printing through clothing.
Weight Specifications
Weight varied dramatically based on frame material and barrel length. Standard steel-frame 2-inch models weighed approximately 17-21 ounces unloaded, light enough for comfortable daily carry while providing sufficient mass to manage .38 Special recoil effectively.
Stainless steel variants typically weighed toward the higher end of this range, while blued carbon steel models came in slightly lighter. Alloy-frame "Ultra-Lite" variants reduced weight through aluminum or similar lightweight alloys, dropping several ounces while maintaining strength in critical areas.
The extreme weight reduction occurred with the 85VTA "View" model, which combined an aluminum frame with a titanium cylinder and the ultra-short 1.41-inch barrel to achieve just 9.5 ounces unloaded, making it one of the lightest centerfire revolvers available.
Loaded weight for standard models added approximately 1-2 ounces depending on ammunition, bringing typical carry weight to roughly 18-23 ounces—manageable for all-day concealed carry without excessive burden.
Materials and Construction
Frame construction varied by model designation. Standard Model 85 revolvers employed steel frames providing traditional durability and mass for recoil management. Stainless steel variants offered superior corrosion resistance with modest weight increases over carbon steel.
Ultra-Lite models utilized aluminum alloy frames reducing weight significantly while maintaining adequate strength for .38 Special pressures. The View variant took lightweight construction to extremes with both aluminum frame and titanium cylinder—materials capable of handling loads safely but creating punishing recoil characteristics.
The cylinder remained steel across all variants (excepting the View's titanium), providing the strength necessary to contain .38 Special chamber pressures safely. Traditional revolver construction methods—solid frame, swing-out cylinder, and crane (yoke) assembly—followed time-tested designs rather than innovative approaches.
Sights and Features
Fixed sights represented standard equipment across the Model 85 line. A ramp-style front sight—typically featuring a brass bead or painted insert—provided the aiming reference, while a simple notch integral to the top strap created the rear sight picture.
This fixed sight configuration eliminated adjustability but provided a snag-free profile ideal for concealed carry draws from pockets or holsters. The sights offered adequate precision for typical defensive distances of 3-15 yards, though long-range accuracy suffered compared to adjustable-sight target revolvers.
Factory grips varied by model and production year. Many examples shipped with textured rubber grips praised for comfort and recoil absorption, these soft rubber stocks provided superior traction compared to smooth wood while cushioning recoil impulses. Some special editions or early production runs featured wood grips or decorative options with gold accents.
The grip frame followed traditional small-frame proportions, accommodating a range of hand sizes though smaller hands found the reach comfortable while large hands experienced some finger crowding.
Safety Systems
The transfer-bar safety system represented the Model 85's primary safety feature—a passive system preventing firing unless the trigger was pulled fully rearward.
The transfer bar only rose between the hammer and firing pin during deliberate trigger manipulation, blocking hammer contact with the firing pin at all other times. This design allowed safe carry with all five chambers loaded, even with the hammer resting on a live round—a significant safety improvement over older revolver designs requiring an empty chamber.
Post-1997 Model 85 revolvers incorporated the Taurus Security System (TSS)—a keyed internal lock accessed through a socket in the hammer. Rotating the key disabled the hammer, preventing firing and providing storage security.
This feature generated controversy among some traditional revolver enthusiasts who viewed additional internal mechanisms skeptically, though others appreciated the storage safety option for households with children.
How Does the Taurus 85 Design Compare to Classic Small-Frame Revolvers?
The Taurus 85 followed traditional small-frame double-action revolver architecture closely mirroring Smith & Wesson's J-frame design, utilizing conventional construction methods, steel or alloy frames, 5-shot cylinders, and exposed hammers while maintaining similar dimensions and capacity at significantly lower prices.
Frame and Cylinder Construction
The steel or alloy frame provided the foundation for the Model 85's operation, housing the internal lockwork, trigger, hammer, cylinder stop, and related components—within traditional revolver architecture.
The frame's recoil shield, forcing cone, and cylinder window all followed time-tested designs rather than innovative engineering. Construction quality received generally positive assessments for the price point, though reviewers consistently noted that fit and finish didn't match Smith & Wesson's standards.
Tool marks, slightly rough edges, and less precise component fitting represented acceptable compromises at budget pricing.
The 5-shot steel cylinder locked securely when closed, with the cylinder stop engaging precision-cut notches for proper barrel-chamber alignment. The crane (yoke) assembly—the swing arm connecting cylinder to frame, allowed the cylinder to swing outward for loading and unloading.
Some users reported that the crane required proper lubrication and care to maintain smooth operation, with dry or gritty examples benefiting from cleaning and appropriate revolver grease.
Ergonomics and Handling
Small-frame proportions created ergonomics familiar to anyone experienced with J-frame revolvers.
The compact grip provided adequate purchase for most shooters while keeping dimensions minimal for concealment. Factory rubber grips enhanced comfort significantly compared to older hard rubber or wood alternatives, with textured surfaces providing secure traction during firing.
The short barrel and compact dimensions concentrated recoil energy, requiring proper grip technique to manage muzzle rise during rapid fire—particularly with +P ammunition.
The exposed hammer maintained traditional double-action/single-action versatility. Shooters could fire entirely in double-action mode with long, deliberate trigger pulls suitable for defensive speed, or manually cock the hammer for single-action precision when circumstances allowed careful aiming.
The hammer spur's size and shape provided adequate purchase for thumb-cocking without excessive bulk that might snag during draws from concealment.
Controls and Operation
As a traditional double-action revolver, the Model 85 featured minimal external controls. The cylinder release button positioned on the left frame side ahead of the hammer pushed forward to release the cylinder for swinging outward.
The ejector rod beneath the barrel manually pushed fired cases or live cartridges from the cylinder when activated—requiring deliberate manipulation rather than automatic ejection.
This manual process proved slower than semi-automatic magazine changes but provided ultimate simplicity and reliability.
The trigger served as the primary control interface. Double-action pulls typically measured 10-14 pounds with long travel rotating the cylinder, cocking the hammer, and releasing it to fire—a deliberate action preventing unintentional discharge while challenging accuracy.
Single-action trigger pulls after manual hammer cocking reduced to 3-5 pounds with minimal travel, dramatically improving accuracy potential for precision shots. Trigger quality varied by individual sample, with some examples feeling smooth while others demonstrated grittiness or stacking (increasing resistance) requiring break-in or polishing.
Sight System Performance
The fixed sight configuration delivered adequate defensive accuracy without adjustability or complexity.
Aligning the front sight in the rear notch and placing it on target center mass provided sufficient precision for typical defensive distances. The lack of adjustability meant shooters needed to accept factory regulation—the point of impact relative to point of aim at specific distances.
Most Model 85 revolvers regulated reasonably close to point of aim at 7-15 yards with standard ammunition, though individual guns and ammunition combinations might shoot slightly high, low, or to one side.
The fixed sights' primary advantage involved snag-free carry. Adjustable sights' screws, elevation wheels, and windage adjustments created potential snagging points during draws from pockets or clothing.
The Model 85's simple fixed sights slid smoothly from concealment without catching on fabric or holster material.
Finish Quality and Durability
Finish quality matched the revolver's budget positioning—functional and adequate but not refined.
Blued models featured traditional hot or cold bluing providing rust protection though requiring maintenance with regular oiling. Stainless steel variants offered superior corrosion resistance with less maintenance requirement, making them popular for carry guns exposed to perspiration and environmental moisture.
Special edition finishes included polished stainless, two-tone combinations, and gold-accented limited runs targeting collectors.
Users consistently noted that while the Model 85's finish functioned adequately, it didn't match premium manufacturers' depth, evenness, or perfection. Minor tool marks, slight unevenness, and less precise polish represented typical observations.
However, the finish performed its primary function—protecting steel from corrosion—acceptably for most carry applications.
What Variants Existed Within the Taurus Model 85 Family?
The Taurus 85 family encompassed standard steel and alloy-frame models in multiple barrel lengths and finishes, plus experimental ultra-light variants including the controversial "View" model with its transparent side panel,each targeting different priorities within the concealed carry market before the entire line evolved into the 6-shot 856 platform.
Standard Model 85 Steel Variants
The core Model 85 line featured conventional steel or stainless steel frame construction in 2-inch and 3-inch barrel lengths.
The 2-inch snub-nose represented the most popular configuration, optimizing concealability while maintaining defensive capability. Available in blued carbon steel or stainless steel finishes, these traditional models provided the baseline against which all variants measured.
Rubber grips came standard on most production runs, though wood grips appeared on some examples. These standard models handled .38 Special +P ammunition safely, weighed 17-21 ounces depending on finish and barrel length, and delivered the core Model 85 experience—reliable, simple, budget-friendly concealed carry.
Ultra-Lite Alloy Frame Models
Taurus produced "Ultra-Lite" variants reducing weight through aluminum or similar lightweight alloy frame construction while maintaining steel cylinders and barrels.
These models shed several ounces compared to all-steel examples, typically weighing 13-17 ounces depending on barrel length, making all-day carry noticeably more comfortable.
The weight reduction came with increased felt recoil, particularly with +P ammunition, creating the classic lightweight revolver trade-off: enhanced carry comfort versus more punishing shooting characteristics.
Ultra-Lite models still handled +P ammunition safely within the alloy frame's strength capabilities, providing full power capability despite reduced mass.
Model 85VTA "View"
The 85VTA "View" represented Taurus's most radical Model 85 departure, introduced in 2014 with dramatic weight reduction and a transparent polycarbonate side panel allowing visibility into the revolver's internal mechanism.
Combining an aluminum frame, titanium cylinder, and ultra-short 1.41-inch barrel, the View achieved an astonishing 9.5 ounces unloaded—making it among the lightest centerfire revolvers available.
The clear side panel created novelty appeal, marketing the gun as both defensive tool and mechanical showcase.
However, the View's reception proved disastrous. The extreme weight reduction created "absolutely brutal" recoil even with mild target ammunition.
Multiple reviewers and users described it as painful to shoot, discouraging practice and undermining defensive proficiency. Noted firearms instructor Massad Ayoob reported accuracy problems and bullet-jump issues—lead bullets "prairie-dogging" forward out of cases under recoil and binding the cylinder.
The View's standard-pressure-only .38 Special rating meant +P ammunition was prohibited, limiting defensive effectiveness despite the gun's carry-focused mission.
Commercial failure came swiftly. Taurus discontinued the View in December 2014—less than a year after introduction—due to poor sales and negative reception. The transparent side panel generated concerns about durability, debris intrusion, and aesthetics beyond the mechanical performance issues.
Model 85 "No View"
Following the View's failure, Taurus attempted redemption with the "No View" model in 2015—essentially the View with an aluminum side plate replacing the controversial transparent panel.
This revision addressed durability concerns while maintaining the ultra-light weight characteristics. However, the fundamental problems—punishing recoil, bullet-jump issues, and limited power due to standard-pressure-only rating—persisted.
The No View failed to gain significant market traction and disappeared from production relatively quickly, ending Taurus's ultra-light Model 85 experiments.
Special Editions and Finish Variations
Throughout its production run, Taurus offered various special editions featuring unique finishes, grips, or decorative elements.
Stainless steel with gold accents created upscale aesthetics for collectors. Two-tone finishes combined stainless and blued components for visual interest. Various grip materials—from traditional wood to modern rubber in multiple textures—allowed some personalization.
These special editions represented normal product line management and marketing efforts rather than significant mechanical variations.
How Did the Model 85 Compare to Competing Snub-Nose Revolvers?
The Model 85's primary competition came from Smith & Wesson's J-frame line—the Models 36, 37, 60, 637, 638, and 640 representing direct competitors in the .38 Special small-frame category.
Reviewers and users consistently acknowledged that Smith & Wesson offered superior fit, finish, quality control consistency, and brand prestige, but commanded prices typically $150-300 higher than comparable Taurus models.
The Model 85 provided adequate function and reliability for budget-conscious buyers willing to accept slightly rougher edges and potentially less refined triggers in exchange for significant savings.
Ruger's LCR (Lightweight Compact Revolver) entered the market later, offering modern polymer-frame construction, DAO (double-action-only) triggers, and innovative design elements at prices between Taurus and Smith & Wesson. The LCR's modern engineering and Ruger's quality reputation attracted shooters willing to spend more than the Model 85 commanded but less than S&W's premium pricing.
Charter Arms produced various small-frame .38 Special revolvers at prices comparable to or slightly below Taurus, though with even less market penetration and more limited distribution. Rock Island Armory and other imports occasionally appeared but lacked the market presence of the major manufacturers.
The Model 85's value proposition centered on delivering J-frame-type defensive capability at the lowest practical price point from a established manufacturer with nationwide distribution and service network. Buyers prioritizing ultimate quality chose Smith & Wesson.
Those wanting modern innovation considered Ruger. Budget-conscious shooters seeking adequate quality at minimal cost selected the Taurus Model 85.
The Taurus 856 Evolution
By 2018, Taurus engineers expanded the Model 85's cylinder and frame to create the 6-shot Model 856—effectively ending the 85's production run through evolutionary replacement rather than discontinuation.
The 856 maintained similar overall dimensions while increasing capacity by 20% (five to six rounds), updated internal design elements, and incorporated lessons learned from decades of Model 85 production.
The 856 has received significantly more positive reception than late-model 85 variants, with reviewers calling it "a modern day classic" and noting substantial improvements in quality and design.
This evolution reflects market demands for increased capacity—even one additional round matters in defensive contexts—and Taurus's commitment to improving their small-frame revolver line.
The Model 85's discontinuation resulted from planned product evolution rather than safety recalls or commercial failure of the core platform (unlike the View variant's distinct failure).
How Did the Taurus 85 Perform at the Range?
The Taurus 85 delivered adequate defensive accuracy with manageable recoil using standard .38 Special ammunition in conventional steel-frame models, though ultra-light variants created punishing recoil that discouraged practice.
Reliability proved generally good for standard models with proper maintenance, though quality control variability meant some individual examples required warranty service or aftermarket part replacement to achieve consistent function.
Accuracy Testing Results
For a fixed-sight 2-inch .38 Special snub-nose revolver, the Model 85 delivered practical accuracy meeting defensive requirements. Multiple YouTube reviewers documented "palm-size groups at common defensive ranges," with one calling it "The Good Enough Snubbie" to emphasize that accuracy proved sufficient without exceptional precision.
At typical defensive distances of 7-15 yards, competent shooters achieved center-mass hits consistently—the critical metric for defensive firearms.
Single-action firing (manually cocking the hammer) demonstrated the revolver's mechanical accuracy potential, with reviewers noting that careful single-action groups tightened considerably compared to double-action rapid fire.
One Maryland Shooters forum user noted their Model 85 was "reliable and accurate when fired in single action," suggesting the revolver's mechanical precision exceeded what many shooters extracted through double-action trigger manipulation.
The long, heavy double-action trigger created accuracy challenges for less experienced shooters, though practice and proper technique allowed skilled users to shoot tight double-action groups.
The short 2-inch barrel and minimal sight radius imposed practical accuracy limitations beyond 15-20 yards, though this matched the revolver's intended defensive role.
Few civilian defensive encounters occur beyond conversational distances, making the Model 85's accuracy adequate for its mission despite limitations for long-range precision.
Recoil Characteristics
Recoil varied dramatically based on frame weight and ammunition selection. Standard steel-frame Model 85 revolvers weighing 17-21 ounces managed .38 Special recoil very effectively.
Multiple reviewers described standard-pressure .38 Special as comfortable and pleasant to shoot, allowing extended practice sessions without fatigue or flinch development. The factory rubber grips absorbed firing shock effectively, distributing recoil forces across the palm comfortably.
.38 Special +P ammunition increased recoil noticeably but remained within acceptable parameters for most shooters in standard-weight guns. The additional velocity and energy of +P loads created snappier recoil than standard pressure, but experienced revolver shooters found it tolerable and controllable.
Extended practice sessions with +P ammunition proved feasible though less pleasant than standard pressure, allowing shooters to train with defensive-power ammunition.
Ultra-light variants transformed the recoil equation dramatically. Alloy-frame Ultra-Lite models weighing 13-17 ounces generated significantly sharper recoil with both standard and +P ammunition, requiring firmer grip technique and greater recoil tolerance.
The extreme 9.5-ounce View model created genuinely punishing recoil that multiple reviewers and users described as "brutal," "painful," or "absolutely unpleasant." This excessive recoil discouraged practice, undermining the defensive proficiency that practice develops, making ultra-light variants paradoxically less effective defensive tools despite their superior carry comfort.
Reliability Assessment
Reliability for standard Model 85 revolvers proved generally good across numerous user reports and reviews. Hooks & Ammo reported their test gun was reliable with no malfunctions across their evaluation.
Christian Gun Owner documented a 20-year-old Model 85 that had never been fired until recently, then functioned perfectly despite decades of storage—testament to revolver simplicity and durability. Maryland Shooters forum members reported their Model 85 examples were "reliable" across normal use.
However, quality control variability appeared in some individual examples. One Reddit user documented repeated mainspring failures requiring three warranty returns before they installed an aftermarket Wolff spring to resolve the problem permanently.
The same user experienced timing issues with a Taurus 605 (a related .357 Magnum model), contributing to their decision to avoid Taurus revolvers entirely. These quality control lapses occurred sporadically rather than systemically, but they created uncertainty and eroded confidence compared to manufacturers with tighter QC.
The View variant suffered distinct reliability problems beyond normal QC variance. Bullet-jump issues—where recoil from firing one chamber caused bullets in other chambers to pull forward from their cases, created serious malfunctions.
When bullets extended forward, they could bind the cylinder's rotation, rendering the revolver inoperable. This problem stemmed from the View's extreme weight reduction creating excessive recoil forces that standard crimp couldn't always withstand.
Trigger Quality and Feel
Trigger quality represented one area where the Model 85's budget positioning showed clearly.
Out-of-box triggers often felt dry, gritty, or rough, requiring lubrication and extensive cycling to smooth properly. One YouTube reviewer noted their sample's action "felt very dry and gritty out of the box" and needed significant break-in. Double-action pulls typically measured 10-14 pounds with noticeable stacking (increasing resistance as the trigger traveled rearward) in many examples—creating accuracy challenges for shooters accustomed to smooth, consistent pulls.
Single-action trigger pulls after manual hammer cocking proved significantly better, measuring 3-5 pounds with minimal travel and clean breaks.
This dramatic improvement between double- and single-action trigger quality demonstrated that the revolver's lockwork possessed adequate precision, but the double-action interface needed refinement or break-in to achieve smooth operation.
Many owners reported that trigger quality improved noticeably with use. Several hundred dry-fire cycles or live firing smoothed internal contact surfaces naturally, reducing grittiness and improving the pull's consistency.
Some dedicated owners polished internal contact surfaces or installed aftermarket springs to optimize trigger feel—modifications that Smith & Wesson owners rarely needed but that Taurus owners often pursued to maximize their revolvers' potential.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
Standard steel-frame Model 85 revolvers demonstrated adequate durability for typical civilian defensive carry, perhaps 50-200 rounds fired annually with routine cleaning and maintenance.
Some users reported decades of ownership with minimal issues. One Reddit comment referenced claims of 50,000+ round counts on old Model 85 examples, though such extreme longevity claims lack formal documentation and likely represent exceptional rather than typical use.
The concerns centered less on catastrophic failures and more on small parts wearing or springs weakening over time, issues addressable through warranty service or aftermarket parts.
The Model 85's use of standard revolver architecture meant most repairs could be completed by competent gunsmiths using readily available parts, though Taurus's historically inconsistent customer service created frustration for owners needing warranty work.
Ultra-light variants raised legitimate durability questions. The View's mechanical problems—bullet-jump and associated issues—stemmed partly from design choices prioritizing weight reduction over durability.
The stress of repeated firing in extremely lightweight frames potentially accelerated wear in ways that standard-weight revolvers avoided.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Taurus 85?
The Taurus 85's .38 Special chambering with +P rating in standard models provides ammunition versatility, with most shooters carrying modern +P hollow-points for defense while practicing primarily with standard-pressure full metal jacket or lead round-nose ammunition to manage recoil and reduce costs.
Defensive Ammunition Selection
Modern .38 Special +P jacketed hollow-point ammunition from premium manufacturers delivers excellent defensive performance from 2-inch snub-nose barrels.
Speer Gold Dot 135-grain +P Short Barrel specifically optimizes for short-barreled revolvers, providing reliable expansion and adequate penetration. Federal HST 130-grain +P, Hornady Critical Defense 110-grain, and similar modern designs offer proven terminal performance.
These modern hollow-points utilize advanced bullet designs engineered to expand reliably even after passing through intermediate barriers like clothing or drywall, delivering effective wound channels.
The +P designation indicates pressures approximately 10% higher than standard .38 Special, generating 50-100 feet per second additional velocity from snub barrels—translating to modestly improved terminal performance and flatter trajectories.
Standard-weight Model 85 revolvers handle +P ammunition safely without accelerated wear concerns for reasonable annual round counts (under 500 rounds yearly). Ultra-light variants rated for standard pressure only (like the View) prohibit +P ammunition entirely due to frame stress and durability concerns.
Some shooters choose standard-pressure .38 Special defensive loads—particularly in ultra-light revolvers where +P recoil becomes excessive.
Modern standard-pressure hollow-points like Hornady Critical Defense 110-grain standard pressure provide adequate defensive capability with significantly reduced recoil compared to +P alternatives.
The terminal performance gap between standard and +P loads narrows with modern bullet technology, making standard pressure a viable defensive choice especially in lightweight guns where controllability matters.
Practice and Training Ammunition
Standard-pressure .38 Special ammunition provides comfortable, economical practice for maintaining proficiency. 130-158 grain round-nose lead (LRN) or full metal jacket (FMJ) loads from major manufacturers cost $0.35-0.60 per round (2024-2025 pricing), allowing affordable practice sessions.
The mild recoil in standard-weight Model 85 revolvers makes practice pleasant rather than punishing, encouraging the regular training needed for defensive proficiency.
Wadcutter and semi-wadcutter ammunition—flat-nosed lead bullets designed for target shooting—work excellently in revolvers for practice. The flat profile cuts clean holes in paper targets making scoring easier, while the soft lead generates minimal recoil. Many competitive revolver shooters and instructors recommend wadcutters for practice, reserving hollow-points for occasional verification and carry.
Shooters should periodically fire their carry ammunition through their specific revolver to verify reliable ignition and function. While revolvers lack the magazine-feeding concerns that plague semi-automatics, occasionally a revolver shows preferences for specific bullet shapes or weights.
Firing 25-50 rounds of carry ammunition annually confirms the gun and ammunition combination works reliably while familiarizing the shooter with defensive-load recoil characteristics.
Ammunition Weight and Type Considerations
The Model 85 digests standard bullet weights from 110 grains (lightweight hollow-points) through 158 grains (traditional heavy round-nose or semi-wadcutter) without feeding issues.
Revolvers eliminate the magazine-feeding concerns that create ammunition sensitivity in semi-automatics—any cartridge fitting the chamber will fire (assuming proper crimping prevents bullet pull-forward). Bullet profile matters little for function since manual cylinder loading eliminates feeding ramps and magazine geometry concerns.
Heavier bullets (148-158 grains) generate lower velocities but often deliver deeper penetration and sometimes milder recoil due to slower acceleration. Lighter bullets (110-125 grains) achieve higher velocities with flatter trajectories but potentially more felt recoil due to faster acceleration despite less bullet mass.
Most defensive experts recommend 125-135 grain hollow-points as optimal for .38 Special defensive use, balancing velocity, expansion, penetration, and controllability.
Ammunition-Related Considerations
The Model 85's limited aftermarket sight options mean shooters must accept factory sight regulation. Some revolvers shoot to a different point of impact with different ammunition weights, heavier bullets often hitting lower than lighter bullets at the same distance.
Shooters should verify their specific revolver's point of impact with their chosen defensive load, confirming hits align with aiming point at typical defensive distances.
Bullet crimp became critically important in ultra-light variants. The View's documented bullet-jump problems stemmed from insufficient crimp allowing recoil forces to pull bullets forward in unfired chambers.
Standard-weight revolvers rarely experienced this issue even with factory ammunition, but ultra-light guns required ammunition with firm crimps or hand-loaded ammunition with heavy crimps to prevent bullet movement.
What Are the Best Use Cases for the Taurus Model 85?
The Taurus 85 served best as a budget-conscious concealed carry revolver for shooters prioritizing simple, reliable operation and affordability over capacity, with standard-weight models providing adequate shooting comfort for practice while ultra-light variants sacrificed shootability for ultimate carry convenience.
Is the Taurus 85 Suitable for Concealed Carry?
The Model 85 excelled in concealed carry applications when evaluated on dimensions, weight, and simplicity.
The compact 6.5-inch overall length and slim 5-shot cylinder profile allowed comfortable pocket carry, ankle holster use, or inside-the-waistband concealment without excessive printing or bulk. Standard-weight models weighing 17-21 ounces provided comfortable all-day carry while maintaining sufficient mass for reasonable recoil management during practice.
The revolver's inherent simplicity, no magazines to seat, no safeties to manipulate, no slides to rack—benefited shooters under stress or those uncomfortable with semi-automatic operation.
The transfer-bar safety enabled confident carry with all five chambers loaded, maximizing defensive capacity without safety concerns. The double-action trigger's long, heavy pull resisted unintentional discharge while providing immediate readiness. Shooters could carry the revolver in pockets, purses, or holsters with confidence that it wouldn't fire unless deliberately triggered.
However, the 5-shot capacity represented the Model 85's most significant concealed carry limitation. While statistical data shows most defensive encounters involve 1-3 shots fired, five rounds provides minimal margin for missed shots or multiple attackers.
Reloading requires manual manipulation of individual cartridges or fumbling with speedloaders under stress—significantly slower than semi-automatic magazine changes. Shooters needing maximum capacity should consider higher-capacity alternatives, though those prioritizing simplicity and concealability found the Model 85's capacity adequate.
Does the Taurus 85 Work for Home Defense?
The Model 85 served adequately for home defense though without optimization for this specific role.
The .38 Special +P chambering provided proven defensive capability at indoor distances. The revolver's reliability advantages—no magazines to malfunction, no cycling failures—benefited home defenders potentially unfamiliar with firearms or rarely practicing. The simplicity of operation meant family members could understand and operate the revolver with minimal training.
However, significant limitations undermined home defense effectiveness. The lack of accessory rail prevented weapon light mounting—critical for positive target identification in darkness.
The 5-round capacity provided minimal reserve for missed shots in stressful encounters. The fixed sights' small size challenged rapid acquisition in low light. Most importantly, the revolver lacked the capacity and firepower advantages of modern semi-automatic pistols or carbines better suited for home defense.
Shooters seeking dedicated home defense revolvers should consider larger-frame models with 6+ shot capacity, longer barrels for improved accuracy and velocity, and adjustable sights.
The Model 85 could serve home defense needs in households where one gun must fill both carry and home roles, but dedicated home defense firearms existed with superior features.
Can the Taurus 85 Compete or Hunt?
The Model 85 proved fundamentally unsuitable for competitive shooting or hunting. Competition requires extensive practice to develop proficiency—exactly what budget revolvers' rougher triggers and adequate-but-not-exceptional quality discourage.
Fixed sights eliminate the precision adjustments competitive shooters demand. The 2-inch barrel sacrifices accuracy and velocity unnecessarily for static competition where concealability provides no advantage.
Competitive revolver shooters should choose purpose-built target revolvers with adjustable sights, tuned triggers, and longer barrels.
For hunting, the .38 Special cartridge lacks power for anything beyond small game at very close range. The 2-inch barrel sacrifices velocity and accuracy needed for ethical shots.
While .38 Special can dispatch small game or serve as snake loads for outdoorsmen, dedicated hunting requires more powerful calibers and longer barrels maximizing cartridge potential. The Model 85's mission centered entirely on defensive use—any hunting or competition use represented incidental capability rather than optimized performance.
Is the Model 85 a Range Toy or Defensive Tool?
The Model 85 existed purely as a defensive tool rather than a recreational range toy. The revolver's features—compact dimensions, fixed sights, defensive caliber—all optimized for carry and defensive use at the expense of range enjoyment.
Standard-weight models provided adequate shooting comfort for practice maintenance but didn't deliver the refined experience that makes shooting purely recreational. Budget pricing and rougher finish quality positioned the gun as working tool rather than collector piece or recreational shooter.
This utilitarian focus didn't diminish the Model 85's value for appropriate buyers. Defensive tools need not provide shooting pleasure beyond adequate comfort for proficiency maintenance.
The revolver delivered genuine defensive capability at prices allowing budget-conscious buyers to afford reliable protection, a legitimate and valuable market position even if the gun lacked recreational appeal.
What Holster Options Work Best for the Taurus 85?
Finding the right Taurus 85 holster benefits from the revolver's compatibility with standard small-frame revolver holster patterns matching Smith & Wesson J-frame dimensions. Quality polymer holsters molded specifically for small-frame revolvers provide secure retention and consistent positioning for this classic defensive snub-nose.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 delivers exceptional inside-the-waistband concealment for your Taurus 85 with adjustable cant, ride height, and retention settings. The breathable backing and molded polymer shell make this Taurus Model 85 holster comfortable for all-day carry, distributing the revolver's moderate weight evenly against your body.
Chest Holster
Chest-mounted holsters place your Taurus 85 high on the torso where it remains accessible while sitting in vehicles, on ATVs, or when wearing backpack hip belts that block waist access.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Taurus 85?
Pros:
- Affordable pricing – Typically $300-400 new, often under $300 used, providing budget access to defensive revolvers
- Simple, reliable operation – Traditional revolver design eliminates magazine failures and complex controls
- Compact dimensions – 6.5-inch length suits pocket carry, ankle holsters, and minimal-printing concealment
- Adequate defensive power – .38 Special +P chambering provides proven stopping capability
- Transfer-bar safety – Allows safe carry with all five chambers loaded without discharge risk
- Moderate weight – Standard models' 17-21 ounces balance carry comfort with shooting comfort
- J-frame compatibility – Shares dimensions with S&W J-frames, enabling extensive holster and accessory availability
- Exposed hammer – Maintains DA/SA versatility for defensive speed or single-action precision
- Rubber grips included – Factory grips provide good recoil management and control
- Long production history – Decades of manufacturing refined the design and created large used market
- Adequate accuracy – Fixed sights and 2-inch barrel deliver defensive-range precision
- Multiple barrel lengths – 2-inch and 3-inch options balance concealability versus shootability
- Stainless options – Corrosion-resistant finish aids low-maintenance carry in humid environments
Cons:
- Quality control variability – Some examples require warranty service for spring failures, timing issues, or rough triggers
- Limited capacity – 5 rounds provide minimal defensive reserve compared to modern alternatives
- Rough finish quality – Tool marks and less refined fit/finish compared to premium manufacturers
- Gritty triggers – Many examples need extensive break-in or polishing to achieve smooth double-action pulls
- Taurus reputation concerns – Historical quality control inconsistencies and service issues create buyer hesitation
- Non-replaceable sights – Fixed sights lack adjustability and cannot be upgraded to night sights easily
- Minimal aftermarket support – Limited grip, sight, and accessory options compared to S&W J-frames
- Discontinued platform – Replaced by 856 means no ongoing manufacturer development or marketing
- No accessory rail – Cannot mount weapon lights for low-light identification
- Slow reloads – Manual cylinder loading significantly slower than magazine changes
- View variant failure – Ultra-light experiments created painful recoil and reliability issues
- Inconsistent customer service – Taurus's historically uneven warranty support frustrated some owners
- Limited precision – Fixed sights and 2-inch barrel limit accuracy beyond defensive distances
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Used Taurus 85?
The Taurus 85 earns a qualified recommendation for extremely budget-conscious shooters seeking basic defensive revolver capability at minimum cost, particularly in the used market where examples appear for $200-300, though buyers should understand they're purchasing discontinued technology with quality control variability and should thoroughly inspect any example before purchase while considering that the 6-shot Taurus 856 often costs only slightly more new.
Who Should Consider a Used Taurus 85?
The ideal used Model 85 buyer operates under severe budget constraints—perhaps $200-300 maximum—while needing immediate defensive capability. This shooter values revolver simplicity above semi-automatic capacity and features, finding the straightforward operation and minimal controls appealing. They're willing to accept quality control risk and potentially rougher triggers in exchange for rock-bottom pricing. Mechanical competence or willingness to install aftermarket springs helps, as some examples need minor tuning to achieve optimal performance.
Specific user groups who might find used Model 85 revolvers suitable include individuals furnishing rental properties or vehicles with inexpensive defensive firearms where theft or loss risk makes expensive guns inappropriate, shooters building budget collections sampling different platforms, or those needing backup guns where primary defensive firearms already provide refined operation.
Buyers comfortable with firearms maintenance and minor gunsmithing can maximize Model 85 value by addressing rough triggers, installing aftermarket springs, and optimizing performance through cleaning and lubrication—transforming rough examples into adequate defensive tools through modest effort and minimal cost.
Who Should Avoid the Taurus 85?
First-time defensive firearm buyers should avoid the Model 85 despite attractive pricing. Quality control variability means some examples work perfectly while others need attention—inappropriate uncertainty for individuals lacking experience to evaluate revolver function. The discontinued status means no manufacturer support for new production or current development, while the rough triggers and limited capacity create learning challenges for defensive proficiency development.
Shooters prioritizing ultimate reliability should invest in Smith & Wesson J-frames or Ruger LCR revolvers with superior quality control and stronger brand reputations. Those wanting modern features—higher capacity, accessory rails, optics mounting—should choose the Taurus 856 (the Model 85's 6-shot successor) or modern semi-automatic pistols offering dramatically greater capacity and features.
Anyone uncomfortable with potential warranty service or mechanical tuning should avoid Taurus generally. While many Model 85 revolvers function perfectly, the quality control variability and historically inconsistent customer service create frustration for buyers expecting flawless operation or responsive factory support.
Value Assessment in Today's Market
In today's market, the Model 85's value proposition has weakened significantly. New Taurus 856 revolvers—the direct 6-shot successor—often sell for just $50-100 more than used Model 85 examples, providing 20% greater capacity, modern production with current warranty support, and generally improved quality based on user feedback. Spending $250 for a used Model 85 makes questionable sense when $300-350 buys a new 856 with manufacturer backing.
The value equation shifts slightly for used Model 85 revolvers under $200. At these prices, the revolver represents absolute minimum-cost entry into defensive revolver ownership from an established manufacturer with nationwide parts and service availability. Buyers willing to inspect thoroughly, verify timing and lockup, test-fire if possible, and potentially replace springs or smooth triggers can create adequate defensive tools for minimal investment.
However, even at ultra-low prices, buyers should consider whether saving another $100-150 for a new 856 or $200-300 for a used Smith & Wesson J-frame provides dramatically better long-term value through superior reliability, quality, and user experience.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
Long-term Model 85 ownership involves managing a discontinued platform without ongoing manufacturer development or marketing support.
Parts availability follows typical Taurus patterns—common wear items like springs and small parts remain available through Taurus and aftermarket suppliers, though specific Model 85 parts may become scarcer as the 856 dominates current production. The revolver's traditional architecture means competent gunsmiths can maintain and repair most issues using standard revolver knowledge.
Resale value for Model 85 revolvers remains low and declining—used examples sell for $175-300 depending on condition, representing significant depreciation from original prices. Buyers should plan to keep these revolvers rather than expecting strong resale recovery. The discontinued status and quality control reputation limit collectible value, making the Model 85 purely a utilitarian tool rather than an investment.
The successor 856 platform's success paradoxically validates the Model 85 concept while making Model 85 ownership less attractive—if Taurus's modern 6-shot evolution costs little more, why purchase older 5-shot technology?
The Bottom Line
The Taurus Model 85 served successfully for decades as budget-friendly concealed carry revolver providing J-frame-size defensive capability at prices well below premium competitors.
For buyers during its production run, the Model 85 offered legitimate value—adequate quality and reliability at minimum pricing for shooters who couldn't afford Smith & Wesson or who prioritized cost savings over refinement.
In today's market, the Model 85's discontinuation and replacement by the superior 856 makes new purchase consideration moot—the gun simply isn't available new. For used purchase consideration, buyers must weigh the Model 85's low prices against quality control variability, limited capacity, discontinued status, and the modest price premium required for new 856 revolvers with greater capacity and current support.
Purchase a used Model 85 only if your budget absolutely cannot stretch to $300-350 for a new 856, you possess the mechanical competence to evaluate revolver function thoroughly before purchase, and you're willing to accept potential need for minor tuning or part replacement. Inspect meticulously for proper timing, cylinder lockup, smooth trigger action, and clean bore. Test-fire if possible before purchase. Budget for potential spring replacements or gunsmith smoothing.
Avoid the Model 85 if you can afford slightly higher investment in proven alternatives—the value gap narrows dramatically once prices exceed $200, making new 856 revolvers or used Smith & Wesson J-frames significantly better choices. First-time buyers should particularly avoid the Model 85's quality control uncertainty, choosing platforms with stronger manufacturer support and more consistent function.
The Model 85 served its historical purpose well—democratizing defensive revolver ownership through budget pricing. Today it represents outdated technology superseded by better options at modest price premiums, suitable only for the most budget-constrained buyers willing to accept its limitations and risks