Taurus 65

About the Taurus 65

The Taurus 65 is a medium-frame, six-shot, double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum that also accepts .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition. Based on the classic Smith & Wesson K-frame design, the Model 65 has been a staple of the Taurus lineup since the late 1970s, serving as an affordable and reliable duty-size revolver. The standard configuration features a 4-inch barrel with a full underlug, weighing 38 ounces (1077g) with an overall length of 10.5 inches (267mm) and a height of 5.5 inches (140mm). The steel construction throughout provides a solid platform that absorbs recoil effectively. Fixed front and rear sights offer fast target acquisition and rugged durability suited to duty and defensive use. The soft rubber grip with finger grooves provides a secure hold. Safety features include the transfer bar mechanism and the Taurus Security System (TSS) integral key-lock. With 158-grain .357 Magnum loads from the 4-inch barrel, muzzle velocity is approximately 1,350 fps (412 m/s), producing around 870 joules of muzzle energy. The Model 65 is distinguished from the Model 66 by its fixed sights and six-shot capacity, offering a simpler and more affordable alternative.

Taurus's revolver manufacturing expertise traces back to their acquisition of the Smith & Wesson factory in Brazil, giving them access to decades of refined revolver-building knowledge that continues to influence their designs today.

Taurus 65 specifications

The Taurus 65 is a direct competitor to the Smith & Wesson Model 65 (discontinued) and the Ruger GP100, offering comparable performance at a significantly lower price point. The Model 65 has seen extensive service with Brazilian law enforcement agencies, where it served as a standard-issue duty weapon for decades before semi-automatic pistols became more prevalent. The fixed sights are milled into the frame, making them extremely durable and resistant to damage from holstering and rough handling-a key advantage for duty use. The 65 differs from the Taurus 66 primarily in three ways: six-shot vs. seven-shot capacity, fixed vs. adjustable rear sights, and generally lower price. The rifling twist rate is 1:18.75 inches (476mm), optimized for 125- to 158-grain bullets. Loaded weight estimate includes six .357 Magnum cartridges at approximately 13g each. The blued variant features a matte oxide finish for a more traditional appearance, while the stainless steel variant offers superior corrosion resistance. Muzzle velocity and energy figures are based on 158-grain JHP .357 Magnum loads from the 4-inch barrel.