# Taurus 85 Compact Defender .38 Special +P Stainless Revolver

**Brand:** Taurus
**Category:** Compact Handguns
**Caliber:** .38 Special +P

## Specifications

- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Barrel Length:** 2"
- **Capacity:** 5 rounds
- **Finish:** Stainless
- **Weight:** 22.2 oz
- **Overall Length:** 6.5"
- **UPC:** 725327611271
- **SKU:** UCClj6jnr

## Description

The Taurus 85SS2FS is a 5-shot .38 Special +P revolver with a 2-inch barrel, matte stainless finish, and rubber grip. At 22.2 ounces it's heavier than some compact revolvers, which helps absorb the extra recoil of +P loads. The transfer bar safety keeps it drop-safe during carry.

### Key Specifications
- **GSIN:** TRSNT-P1SK74PU
- **Manufacturer:** Taurus
- **Model:** 85SS2FS
- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Barrel Length:** 2 inches
- **Capacity:** 5 rounds
- **Weight:** 22.2 ounces (1.4 pounds)
- **Frame Finish:** Stainless Steel
- **Frame Size:** Large
- **Grip Material:** Rubber
- **Safety Features:** Transfer Bar safety system
- **Total Length:** 6.5 inches

### Features

The matte stainless finish resists corrosion well, which matters for a gun carried in humid conditions or close to the body. The 2-inch barrel keeps overall length at 6.5 inches, making concealment straightforward. Fixed front sights work without adjustment, useful when you need to present the gun quickly. The rubber grip provides traction and absorbs recoil well enough that the +P rating isn't punishing to shoot.

The transfer bar safety means the firing pin can only be struck when the trigger is deliberately pulled through its full travel, so it's safe to carry all chambers loaded.

### Target Audience

This revolver works for both new shooters looking for a first defensive gun and experienced owners wanting a dependable backup or CCW option. The +P capability gives a modest ballistic advantage over standard .38 Special loads without requiring a different platform.

### Usage Scenarios

- Home defense where access speed and simplicity under stress matter.
- Concealed carry where the lightweight package and 6.5-inch overall length work with most holster setups.
- Range practice, particularly for shooters building proficiency with defensive handguns.

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

Owners of the Taurus 85 Compact Defender generally rate it well as a practical carry revolver, with a few consistent criticisms.

Reliability comes up most often as a positive. The revolver design has fewer moving parts than a semi-auto, and owners report consistent performance with minimal malfunctions. The compact size and low weight make it genuinely comfortable for all-day carry, and the stainless construction holds up in weather conditions that would show wear on a blued finish faster.

Shooting feel with .38 Special +P rounds varies. Some owners find the 22.2-ounce frame manages recoil well enough that +P loads are comfortable. Others find the combination of light weight and hot loads noticeably snappy. Both reactions are reasonable depending on hand size and recoil tolerance.

Accuracy at defensive distances is generally described as adequate. Owners who compare it to higher-end revolvers sometimes find the trigger feel and precision lacking, though for its intended use, close-range self-defense, the factory setup is functional.

Trigger pull opinions split between owners who like the smooth double-action travel and those who want it lighter or crisper for single-action work. Customer service experiences with Taurus warranty support vary enough that it's worth checking recent reports before buying.

For the price point, most owners see it as solid value, particularly for a first defensive revolver or a dedicated carry backup.

## Pricing

**2 offers available**

| Vendor | Price |
|--------|-------|
| Gunbuyer Com | $205.85 |
| Guns Com | $349.99 |

## Similar Products

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*Data from [GunsNation](https://gunsnation.com)*