Taurus 650 .357 Mag 2″ 5-Round Stainless Revolver
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Taurus 650 .357 Mag 2″ 5-Round Stainless Revolver? It's a compact, five-shot, double-action-only snub-nose revolver built on a stainless steel frame for durable concealed carry. Chambered in .357 Magnum, it also accepts .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition, offering versatility in a snag-free package. The 2-inch barrel and shrouded hammer make it ideal for deep concealment scenarios where reliability matters more than long-range accuracy.
What is the Taurus 650 used for?
This revolver is designed primarily as a deep-concealment defensive firearm for close-quarters encounters. The 2-inch barrel limits effective range to about 15 yards, but the .357 Magnum chambering delivers significant stopping power within that distance. The double-action-only trigger and shrouded hammer prevent snagging during rapid deployment from concealment.
How does the Taurus 650 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Taurus 650 is better for concealed carry, while the Stevens 334 rifle excels at precision shooting at distance. At 7.66 inches overall length, the 650 conceals easily in a waistband holster, whereas the Stevens 334's 20-inch barrel makes it suitable for hunting or range work beyond 100 yards. Both offer reliability, but serve completely different tactical applications.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Taurus 650 weighs 24 ounces unloaded and measures 7.66 inches in overall length with a 2-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.4 inches, making it suitable for pocket carry in larger pants or jacket pockets. The compact frame stands 4.5 inches tall with the factory rubber grips installed.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for new shooters seeking a range training firearm or competition use. The heavy double-action-only trigger pull requires significant finger strength and practice to master. Those needing high capacity should consider semi-automatic alternatives like the Stevens 334 rifle platform instead.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one set of keys for the internal lock system, and owner's manual with warranty information. Unlike some competitors, Taurus does not include a cleaning kit or spare grips. The documentation covers the 5-year warranty terms and basic maintenance procedures.
Is the Taurus 650 worth it at $400.99?
At this price point, the 650 offers solid value for a stainless steel .357 Magnum revolver with proven reliability. Compared to Smith & Wesson models costing $200-300 more, you're getting 90% of the performance for 70% of the price. The investment makes sense for experienced carriers who understand the platform's limitations and strengths.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction — 24 ounces provides manageable recoil control for a .357
- 2-inch barrel length — 7.66 inches overall fits standard J-frame concealment holsters
- DAO trigger — consistent 12-pound pull eliminates safety manipulation under stress
- 5-round capacity — standard for compact revolvers with .357 Magnum chambering
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights — non-adjustable rear limits precision beyond 15 yards
- Heavy trigger — 12-pound DAO pull requires significant finger strength
- Short ejector rod — full .357 Magnum cases may require two-handed ejection
- No accessory rail — cannot mount lights or lasers without aftermarket grips
Key attributes
| upc | 725327942993 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-650129 |
| action | Double Action Only |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 9.7000 |
| model | 650 |
| package height | 2.0 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.95 |
| sights | FS: Removable Blade RS:Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus 650 fires .38 Special, .38 Special +P, and .357 Magnum cartridges safely. The cylinder chambers all three without modification, though you'll need to clean carbon buildup more frequently when switching from .38 to .357. Taurus specifies maximum pressure ratings up to 35,000 PSI for magnum loads.
- Does it fit standard holsters?
- The 650 fits most J-frame pattern holsters designed for 2-inch barrel revolvers. The 1.4-inch cylinder width matches Smith & Wesson dimensions. For Kydex options, specify 'small frame revolver' when ordering from vendors like Desantis or Galco. Leather may require break-in for perfect retention.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL shipments within 3 business days after verification. Transit time depends on your FFL's location, typically 5-7 days via FedEx. We require signed FFL documents before shipment, adding 1-2 days to processing versus non-firearm items.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Firearms can only be returned for manufacturer defects, not buyer's remorse. Taurus handles warranty repairs directly through their Florida service center, with typical turnaround of 14-21 days. Ironclad Armory assists with documentation but doesn't accept returns on functioning firearms due to federal regulations.
- Does this work with Crimson Trace laser grips?
- Yes, the 650 accepts Crimson Trace LG-305 and similar J-frame laser grips. The frame uses standard grip screw spacing at 0.9 inches center-to-center. Installation requires a 3/32-inch hex key and takes about 5 minutes for proper alignment.