Taurus M85 for sale
(10)
TAURUS M85
Brand:
Taurus
Action:
Double Action/Single Action
Barrel Length:
2 BARREL
Caliber:
.38 S&W Special
Capacity:
5
Marketplace Insights
★ 5.0/5
based on 10 customer reviews across 1 variants from 4 retailers
All five-star reviews praising the Taurus Model 85 revolver for exceptional fit, finish, and value at its price point with highly reliable performance.
What customers like
Fit and Finish Quality80%
Fit and finish on the gun is better than I was expecting
Excellent Value for Price70%
For the price you can't do any better
Smooth Trigger Pull50%
The trigger pull is very smooth with both single and double action
Reliable and Functional40%
everything works the way it is supposed to nothing fancy but it's all you need
Fast Shipping Service30%
PSA also shipped the gun within 2 hours of me placing my order
Common concerns
Stiff Cylinder Release30%
Only complaint would be that the cylinder release is a little stiff
Limited Caliber Compatibility10%
Would be nice if it could take .357 ammo but for a budget price you can't have everything
Frequently Asked Questions
Taurus M85 for sale
Is the Taurus 85 a good gun?
"Good" depends on your needs. The Taurus 85 is a compact .38 Special revolver available for under $350. Owners generally report reliable performance for home defense or range use. Drawbacks include the built-in key lock, which some find inconvenient. Read recent reviews for your specific intended use.
Does Taurus still make the Model 85?
No. Taurus discontinued the Model 85, reportedly at the end of 2017, replacing it with the 6-shot Model 856. If you want a similar Taurus revolver, the 856 is the current successor. Check our marketplace for available listings.
How much does a Taurus 85 cost?
Taurus 85 revolvers typically retail around $300–$350 new, with an MSRP near $409 but real-world prices lower. Used models average around $248, with listings starting as low as $100. Prices vary by condition, finish, and seller.
What is the effective range of a Taurus 85?
The Taurus 85 is a compact .38 Special revolver with a 2-inch barrel. Its effective range is approximately 25 meters (27 yards), though it is primarily designed for close-quarters defensive use. Practical accuracy varies with shooter skill and ammunition selection.
Where is the Taurus Model 85 manufactured?
Taurus manufactures the Model 85 at facilities in São Leopoldo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, as well as at its production unit in Bainbridge, Georgia, USA. The company is headquartered in São Leopoldo, but manufacturing is not limited to Brazil.
What are the common problems with Taurus 85?
Reported issues include cylinder binding from poor machining, hand pin misalignment causing lockup, and inadequate factory lubrication. Some units arrive with metal burrs inside the sideplate. Quality control is inconsistent, so inspect before purchasing. Many owners report trouble-free operation after proper cleaning and lubrication.
What frame is the Taurus M85?
Taurus built the Model 85 on a small frame comparable to Smith & Wesson's J-frame. It is a 5-shot, double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .38 Special, designed for concealed carry.
Will S&W J frame grips fit Taurus 85?
Not directly, but the Model 85 frame closely mirrors the J-frame, and grips often interchange with minor DIY adjustments, such as drilling small holes to accommodate locator pins. Full gunsmithing is rarely needed. Taurus-specific grips remain the simplest option, but many shooters swap S&W J-frame grips successfully with minimal effort.
When was the Taurus 85 made?
Taurus introduced the Model 85 in 1980, and it remains in production today. To determine when a specific example was made, check its serial number and factory markings.
How much does a Taurus 85 Ultralite weight?
The Taurus 85 Ultralite weighs 17 ounces.
Can Taurus Model 85 shoot +P?
Model 85 +P rating varies by production year. Earlier versions are not rated for +P, while some newer ones are. Contact Taurus directly with your serial number to confirm your specific gun's rating before using +P ammunition.