First Impressions: Taurus 650 Revolver

A classic "snubby" is back for a new audience that's learned to appreciate snag-free concealed carry.

by
posted on November 14, 2024
Taurus 650

The "snubby," or snub-nosed revolver, is a classic of concealed carry. The "snub-nose" part of its moniker relates to the length of its barrel, which is generally considered to be 3" or less. One of the most famous "snubbies" has been the Taurus 650, which was discontinued for a time but is back by popular demand! Featuring a true shrouded hammer, this five-shot wheelgun is chambered in the venerable .357 Magnum, a time-tested round with excellent stopping power. 

What's great about a shrouded hammer is that there's nothing to snag on your holster or clothing as you're clearing the widest part of the gun from your concealment position. Shrouded hammers also mean that, in an emergency, the firearm can be shot through its holster without jamming the action.

Because the shooter can't move the hammer manually, guns like the Taurus 650 function in double-action-only (DAO) mode. What's great about DAO is that the long, heavy trigger pull that is necessary to move the hammer reduces the chances of a negligent discharge. And the Taurus 650 is what's great about the iconic snubby design.

"This is the ultimate expression of what my friend Darryl Bolke refers to as 'the snubby lifestyle',” said Caleb Giddings, Manager of Marketing, Taurus USA. "Some people want a simple, reliable DAO revolver they can carry every day, and this gun answers that need perfectly."

The Taurus 650 is compatible with a variety of existing five-shot speed loaders and holsters for similar .357 Magnum models, making it versatile and user-friendly for both experienced shooters and new users alike. The 650 is available in steel or stainless-steel frame models, and features a removable serrated blade front sight for even less snag potential. MSRPs $454-469; TaurusUSA.com.

 

Latest

Nra Logo Periwinkle
Nra Logo Periwinkle

NRA Files Amicus Brief Asking Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to District of Columbia’s Magazine Ban

The NRA’s brief argues that D.C.'s ban on magazines of 10 or more rounds is unconstitutional.

Throwback Thursday: Remington Double Derringer

Its technical name is the Model 95, but this diminutive pistol is the image that comes to mind when you hear "derringer."

Reviewed: Kimber 2K11 Pistol

Don't be fooled: Kimber's full-size, double-stack 1911-style handgun shoots almost as softly and accurately as a race-tuned .22.

NRA Files Lawsuit Challenging Colorado’s Excise Tax on Gun & Ammunition Sales

"We are pleased to join with other Second Amendment advocates in this lawsuit to protect and defend the fundamental right to keep and bear arms.”

Catch Big & Rich Performing Live at "NRA Show" in Atlanta

These staunch Second Amendment supporters headline our "Freedom Experience" concert at NRA's Annual Meetings & Exhibits this month.

No Fooling: Silencer Central Pays Tax Stamps Through April 15, 2025

“We wanted to do something for our customers to reduce some of the stress of tax time," notes Silencer Central CEO Brandon Maddox.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.