Taurus 605 Protector Revolver .357 Magnum 2″ 5rd

The Taurus 605 Protector Revolver .357 Magnum 2″ 5rd is a five-shot snub-nose that punches way above its weight class. Chambered for .357 Magnum (and happily eating .38 Special +P), this little wheelgun packs serious defensive punch in a package that disappears under a T-shirt. With a 2-inch barrel and a fiber-optic front sight that grabs light like a cat’s eye, it’s built for the guy who wants a backup that doesn’t back down. Per Taurus specs, it weighs just 22 ounces empty — light enough for pocket carry, stout enough for full-house magnums. This is the revolver that says ‘I’m ready’ without shouting about it.

Manufacturer	Taurus USA
Model	605 Protector
Material	Stainless steel frame and cylinder (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.357 Magnum / .38 Special +P
Finish	Matte stainless (per manufacturer specs)
Weight	22 oz empty (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Fiber-Optic Front Sight – Why it matters: In low-light or high-stress situations, that bright green dot draws your eye faster than a standard blade, cutting sight acquisition time in half. You aim, you fire, you hit.
• Transfer-Bar Safety System – Why it matters: This internal mechanism physically blocks the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. Dropped your revolver on the concrete? It won’t fire. Period.
• Taurus Security System (TSS) – Why it matters: A key-locked internal lock lets you disable the gun when storing it around curious hands or during transport. Gives you peace of mind without compromising reliability when unlocked.
• 2-Inch Barrel with Full Underlug – Why it matters: The short barrel keeps the overall length at a concealable 6.5 inches, while the underlug adds weight forward to tame muzzle flip. You get a snub nose that doesn’t snap like a whip.
• 5-Round Cylinder in .357 Magnum – Why it matters: Five rounds of .357 Magnum deliver more energy than six rounds of 9mm from a semi-auto of the same size. Each shot counts — and each one hits like a freight train.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who appreciates a classic snub-nose with modern upgrades. It’s for the concealed carrier who wants a revolver that doesn’t print under a light jacket. It’s for the shooter who wants .357 Magnum power in a package that weighs less than a full water bottle. If you’ve ever carried a J-frame and wished it had more stopping power, this is your answer.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Lightweight at 22 oz — easy all-day carry in a pocket holster or IWB.
• Pro: Fiber-optic front sight is a huge upgrade over the standard ramp — works great in bright sun and dim rooms.
• Pro: .357 Magnum compatibility gives you versatility: shoot cheap .38 Special at the range, carry hot magnums for defense.
• Con: Fixed rear sight is not adjustable — if you shoot high or low, you’ll need to change your grip or ammo, not the sight.
• Con: The double-action trigger pull is heavy (around 12 lbs per Taurus specs) — it’s safe, but requires practice to shoot accurately.

Comparison: Taurus 605 Protector vs. Competitors

Feature	Taurus 605 Protector	Smith & Wesson Model 642	Ruger LCR .357
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Spl +P	.38 Special +P only	.357 Magnum / .38 Spl +P
Weight (empty)	22 oz	15 oz	17.5 oz
Capacity	5 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Front Sight	Fiber-optic	Fixed ramp	Fixed ramp
Frame Material	Stainless steel	Aluminum alloy	Polymer with steel cylinder
MSRP (approx)	$355	$480	$550

The 605 gives you .357 Magnum power and a fiber-optic sight at a price that undercuts both competitors by $100+. You lose a few ounces compared to the S&W and Ruger, but you gain a steel frame that handles hot loads without wearing out.

FAQ

Is the Taurus 605 Protector safe to carry with a round under the hammer?

Yes. The transfer-bar safety prevents the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled all the way back. You can safely carry all five chambers loaded. The Taurus Security System adds an extra lock if you want it.

Can I shoot .38 Special +P in this revolver?

Absolutely. The 605 is rated for .357 Magnum, which means it can handle .38 Special +P all day long. In fact, .38 Special +P is a great choice for practice and even defensive use — less recoil, less blast, and still effective.

What holsters fit the Taurus 605 Protector?

Most holsters designed for the Taurus 605 series (2-inch barrel) will fit. Look for models made specifically for the 605 or for similar-sized K-frame snub-noses. The 22-ounce weight makes it a good match for pocket holsters, IWB, and ankle rigs.

Does the fiber-optic front sight require batteries?

No. Fiber-optic sights use natural or ambient light to illuminate the rod. They don’t need batteries, tritium, or any power source. If you’re in total darkness, the front sight will appear dark — but you can still use the sight silhouette against a target.

Get the Taurus 605 Protector Today

This revolver moves fast at gun shows and online shops alike. According to recent industry data, Taurus holds roughly 12% of the U.S. revolver market — a sign that shooters trust the brand for reliable, affordable wheelguns. The 605 Protector is a prime example: steel-frame, .357 Magnum, fiber-optic sights, all for $355. Don’t wait until the next show sells out.

Order now and get:

• ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✅ 30-day returns
• ✅ Secure checkout

Browse more in our Revolvers collection, check out Concealed Carry Gear, or see our Taurus Full Line.

Last updated: April 2026