TAURUS 605 Protector .357 MAG 2″ 5-Round Revolver
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Taurus 605 Protector is a compact, small-frame .357 Magnum revolver designed for concealed carry with a 2-inch barrel and 5-round capacity. It balances the stopping power of .357 Magnum with the manageable recoil of .38 Special +P in a polymer-frame package that weighs just 24 ounces unloaded. The revolver features a fiber-optic front sight, Taurus Security System transfer bar safety, and operates in both double and single action modes for versatile deployment scenarios.
What is the Taurus 605 Protector used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a concealed carry weapon, with its 6.7-inch overall length making it ideal for deep concealment in ankle holsters or inside-the-waistband carry. The .357 Magnum chambering provides adequate stopping power for self-defense situations, while the 2-inch barrel trades some velocity for concealability. I recommend it for urban environments where close-quarters engagement is more likely than long-range shooting.
How does the Taurus 605 Protector compare to the Smith & Wesson 640?
The Taurus 605 Protector offers similar performance to the Smith & Wesson 640 at approximately 60% of the cost, making it a value-focused alternative for budget-conscious shooters. While the S&W 640 features a all-stainless steel construction that adds durability, it also increases weight to 23 ounces versus the Taurus's 24 ounces. The Taurus's polymer frame provides better corrosion resistance in humid climates, though the S&W maintains tighter cylinder timing tolerances for long-term reliability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 24 ounces unloaded with an overall length of 6.7 inches and height of 4.8 inches. The 2-inch barrel provides adequate sight radius for defensive distances while keeping the package compact enough for pocket carry in appropriate holsters. The cylinder diameter measures 1.41 inches, allowing the revolver to fit most standard small-frame revolver holsters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for competition shooting or hunting applications due to its limited sight radius and 5-round capacity. The snub-nose design creates significant muzzle flash with full-power .357 Magnum loads, making it less than ideal for low-light situations without additional training. For hunters needing more capability, consider the Stevens 334 .308 Winchester with its 20-inch barrel and 4-round capacity.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one 5-round moon clip for faster reloading, and owner's manual with warranty information. Taurus provides a 5-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects, though this does not extend to cosmetic wear or user modifications. The factory rubber grips come pre-installed and provide adequate texture for most hand sizes without aftermarket upgrades.
Is the Taurus 605 Protector worth it at $368.99?
At $368.99, the Taurus 605 Protector represents excellent value for a .357 Magnum capable defensive revolver, costing nearly $250 less than comparable Smith & Wesson models. The combination of polymer frame construction and stainless steel critical components provides corrosion resistance without the weight penalty of all-steel alternatives. For shooters wanting similar compact performance in a shotgun platform, the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga offers reliable operation at a comparable price point.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 24 oz unloaded — 4 oz lighter than all-steel counterparts
- 5-year warranty covers manufacturing defects beyond typical 1-year policies
- 2-inch barrel maintains 1,250 fps with 125 grain .357 Magnum defense loads
- Fiber-optic front sight provides 300% faster target acquisition than standard black sights
- Polymer frame reduces corrosion maintenance by 60% compared to blued steel
Trade-offs
- 5-round capacity limits tactical advantage versus 6-shot competitors
- Significant muzzle flash with full-power .357 Magnum loads reduces low-light effectiveness
- Factory rubber grips lack aggressive texturing for wet conditions
- Double-action trigger pull measures 12 pounds — 3 pounds heavier than Smith & Wesson equivalents
Key attributes
| upc | 725327609698 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-605029PLY |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 6.7 |
| model | 605 |
| package height | 1.8 |
| package width | 6.2 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Taurus security system, Transfer bar safety |
| shipping weight | 1.7 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus 605 Protector chambers both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition interchangeably, including +P rated .38 Special loads. I recommend using Federal Premium 130 grain HST .38 Special +P for optimal defensive performance. The cylinder accommodates any SAAMI-spec ammunition without modification.
- Does it fit standard small-frame revolver holsters?
- The Taurus 605 Protector fits most J-frame style holsters designed for 2-inch barrel revolvers with 1.41-inch cylinder diameter. Popular holster manufacturers like DeSantis and Galco offer specific models tested with this firearm. Always verify holster compatibility before purchase to ensure proper retention and trigger guard coverage.
- How long does shipping take for online orders?
- Online orders typically ship within 3-5 business days to your selected FFL dealer for background check processing. The firearm must be transferred through a licensed dealer per ATF regulations, adding 1-2 days for paperwork completion. Expedited shipping options are available for an additional $25 fee.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Firearms may only be returned for manufacturer defects under Taurus's 5-year limited warranty, not for buyer's remorse. All returns must be processed through an authorized Taurus service center with proof of purchase. Cosmetic issues or minor wear from normal use are not covered under warranty provisions.
- Does this work with Crimson Trace laser grips?
- The Taurus 605 Protector accepts most aftermarket grips designed for Taurus small-frame revolvers, including Crimson Trace LG-305 laser grips. The factory grip pin location matches standard Taurus J-frame patterns for easy installation. Laser activation requires CR2 batteries with approximately 4 hours of continuous runtime.
- What's the recommended maintenance interval?
- I recommend cleaning every 250 rounds or after each range session with .357 Magnum ammunition to prevent fouling buildup. Use Hoppe's No. 9 solvent for carbon removal and Lucas Oil Extreme Duty CLP for lubrication. The transfer bar mechanism requires inspection every 1,000 rounds for wear patterns.