TAURUS 82 .38 Special 4″ 6-Round Revolver
Pros & cons
What works
- +P rated chamber — handles modern defensive .38 Special loads
- 32 oz unloaded weight — manageable recoil impulse for training
- Transfer bar safety — prevents discharge unless trigger is fully pulled
- K-Frame compatibility — uses widely available Model 10 holsters and speed loaders
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights only — no adjustment for windage or elevation without tools
- No included case or lock — adds $25-50 to the true out-the-door cost
- Alloy frame — more susceptible to holster wear over time than a full steel frame
- DA trigger pull — measured at 12 lbs, requires dedicated practice for proficiency
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Taurus 82 .38 Special 4″ 6-Round Revolver is a medium-frame, hammer-fired, +P-rated six-shot revolver designed for straightforward defensive and general-purpose use. Built on an alloy-steel frame with a 4-inch barrel and a 1:16.5-inch twist rate, it delivers the predictable performance of a classic double-action revolver while incorporating a modern transfer bar safety system. This model prioritizes mechanical reliability and regulatory simplicity in a package most civilian shooters can operate without specialized training.
What is the Taurus 82 .38 Special used for?
The Taurus 82 is primarily a defensive handgun suitable for home defense, duty carry where permitted, and as a reliable training platform. Its 32-ounce unloaded weight and double-action trigger make it manageable for practice, while its +P-rated .38 Special chambering provides adequate stopping power with modern defensive loads. The fixed sights and rubber grip prioritize durability and a consistent draw over precise target adjustment, placing it firmly in the duty/utility category rather than competition.
How does the Taurus 82 compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 10?
The Taurus 82 offers a nearly identical mechanical profile and application at a significantly lower price point, approximately $200-300 less than a comparable S&W Model 10. The Smith & Wesson's primary advantages are a historically smoother double-action trigger pull and marginally tighter cylinder lock-up tolerances straight from the factory. For a shooter prioritizing budget and core reliability over the finest possible fit-and-finish, the Taurus 82 is the better value proposition.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the Taurus 82 weighs 32 ounces (907 grams), with a 4-inch barrel contributing to an overall length of 9.5 inches. The cylinder width measures 1.56 inches, and the height from the base of the rubber grip to the top of the fixed rear sight is 5.3 inches. These dimensions place it squarely in the traditional "service revolver" category, comparable in size and heft to the Stevens 334 rifle in terms of being a straightforward, no-frills tool.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for competitive shooters requiring ultra-light triggers or optics-ready platforms, nor is it ideal for deep-concealment carry where its 9.5-inch length and 32-ounce weight become liabilities. Shooters exclusively interested in the latest striker-fired, high-capacity polymer pistols will find its six-round capacity and double-action-first operation deliberately archaic. It's a tool for a specific philosophy of use centered on ultimate mechanical simplicity and regulatory compliance.
What's in the box?
The Taurus 82 ships with the revolver, one six-round cylinder, and the factory-installed black rubber finger-groove grips. You will not find a case, lock, speed loader, or cleaning rod included, which is standard for this price segment. You'll need to purchase .38 Special ammunition and a suitable holster separately to make the platform operational.
Is the Taurus 82 worth it at $440.99?
At $440.99, the Taurus 82 represents a competent entry into the modern service revolver market for shooters who value the platform's inherent safety and simplicity. You are paying for a functional, +P-rated tool with a proven lockwork design, not for cosmetic polish or boutique-grade tolerances. If your requirement is a no-nonsense, six-shot .38 Special that will go "bang" every time you pull the trigger through a legitimate double-action stroke, this price is justified.
Key attributes
| upc | 725327200727 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-820041 |
| action | Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Black Oxide |
| barrel length | 4" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 12.3500 |
| model | 82 |
| package height | 6.25 |
| package width | 2.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 2.75 |
| sights | Fixed Sights |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Model 10 holsters?
- Yes, the Taurus 82 shares the same K-Frame dimensional profile as the Smith & Wesson Model 10. Most leather or kydex holsters molded for a 4-inch S&W K-Frame will fit this revolver. I recommend checking with the holster manufacturer, but brands like DeSantis and Galco list their K-Frame models as compatible.
- Does it fit speed loaders?
- Yes, the Taurus 82 accepts standard six-shot .38/.357 speed loaders designed for S&W K-Frame/L-Frame revolvers, such as the HKS M-10A or Safariland Comp I/II models. Expect a loaded reload cycle time of approximately 3-4 seconds with practice, which is standard for a service revolver of this type.
- How long does shipping take?
- Most orders ship within 1-2 business days after your FFL's information is verified. The firearm is sent via a contracted carrier with adult-signature-required delivery, with transit times typically ranging from 3-7 business days depending on your location relative to our warehouse.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Due to ATF regulations, firearms cannot be returned after the transfer is completed at your FFL, except for a verified manufacturer defect. We strongly advise confirming your state and local laws regarding handgun ownership and ensuring the revolver's 9.5-inch length and 32-ounce weight fit your intended use case before purchasing.
- Does this work with .357 Magnum ammunition?
- No, the Taurus 82 is chambered exclusively for .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition. Attempting to fire .357 Magnum, which is a longer cartridge, will create a dangerous obstruction. The cylinder is not dimensionally long enough for .357, a critical distinction from some other medium-frame revolvers.