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Taurus Releases Two Optics-Ready Revolvers: First Look

Taurus USA has released two small-frame, optics-ready revolvers, the 856 T.O.R.O. and 605 T.O.R.O. with optics plates designed to accept compact red-dot sights with Holosun K footprints. Here's a first look.

Taurus Releases Two Optics-Ready Revolvers: First Look

(Photo courtesy of Taurus USA)

In October of 2022 Taurus USA asked consumers what innovation they wanted to see on the heels of the 856 Executive Grade. The answer was swift and unanimous: a small-frame optics-ready revolver.

You asked, Taurus answered. Introducing the first-ever optics-ready small-frame revolvers, the Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. and the Taurus 605 T.O.R.O. Both revolvers are milled at the factory to accept the optics plate designed specifically for this application. The plate itself accepts compact red dots designed for the Holosun K footprint. For example, you could take the new 856 T.O.R.O. and mount the Holosun EPS Carry on it and be ready to roll.

Taurus Optics-Ready Revolvers Mounting Optic Step 1
(Photo courtesy of Taurus USA)

The advantages to a red dot on a revolver are significant. Obviously, red dot sights are easier for many people to shoot. Additionally, a red dot can be zeroed to a specific grain weight or type of ammo, which wasn’t an option with a traditional fixed-sight revolver.

Both the 856 and 605 T.O.R.O. are based on the incredibly popular Defender series from Taurus. These revolvers feature all-steel construction, 3-inch barrels and a replaceable front sight. The triggers are Taurus’ excellent double-action / single-action trigger, which provides a smooth but fast pull in double action for serious defensive shooting.

Taurus Optics-Ready Revolvers Mounting Optic Step 2
(Photo courtesy of Taurus USA)

Taurus reports it has partnered with holster companies so holsters will be available when the T.O.R.O. revolvers are. In recent years Taurus has earned a reputation for making reliable, affordable firearms, and we’re looking forward to getting our hands on these new models and taking them for a spin.

The new 856 and 605 T.O.R.O. revolvers will have MSRPs that range from under $450 to $470 depending on whether you select the six-shot .38 Special 856, or the 5-shot .357 Magnum 605 in black or stainless.

For additional information, visit www.taurususa.com.

Taurus Optics-Ready Revolvers Mounting Optic Step 1
(Photo courtesy of Taurus USA)

Features

  • First-ever optics-ready revolvers.
  • Optics plate is compatible with the popular Holosun K footprint.
  • Compact grips provide recoil reduction and enhanced concealment.
  • Both the 856 and 605 T.O.R.O.s use a stainless-steel cylinder for maximum durability.
  • With a 3-inch barrel, the 605 T.O.R.O. gets the most performance out of .357 Magnum / .38 Special as possible and the 856 T.O.R.O. does the same with .38 Special.
  • A smooth target-style trigger enhances the shooter’s ability to shoot fast and accurately
Taurus Optics-Ready Revolvers Stainless
(Photo courtesy of Taurus USA)

Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. Revolver Specifications

  • Capacity: 6 Rds.
  • Action Type: DA / SA
  • Firing System: Hammer
  • Front Sight: Removable Front Sight
  • Rear Sight: Fixed
  • Grip: Rubber
  • Caliber: 38 Special +P
  • Frame Size: Small
  • Barrel Length: 3 in.
  • Overall Length: 7.5 in.
  • Overall Height: 4.80 in.
  • Overall Width: 1.40 in.
  • Revolver Weight: 23.5 oz.
  • Frame Material: Stainless Steel
  • Barrel Material: Stainless Steel
  • Cylinder Material: Stainless Steel
  • Frame Finish: Matte Black
  • Barrel Finish: Matte Black
  • Cylinder Finish: Matte Black

Taurus 605 T.O.R.O. Revolver Specifications

  • Capacity: 5 Rds
  • Action Type: DA / SA
  • Firing System: Hammer
  • Front Sight: Removable Front Sight
  • Rear Sight: Fixed
  • Grip: Rubber
  • Caliber: .357 Mag / .38 Special +P
  • Frame Size: Small
  • Barrel Length: 3 in.
  • Overall Length: 7.5 in.
  • Overall Height: 4.80 in.
  • Overall Width: 1.41 in.
  • Revolver Weight: 23.52 oz.
  • Frame Material: Stainless Steel
  • Barrel Material: Stainless Steel
  • Cylinder Material: Stainless Steel
  • Frame Finish: Matte Stainless
  • Barrel Finish: Matte Stainless
  • Cylinder Finish: Matte Stainless

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