The Taurus 82 .38 Special 4″ 6-Round Revolver is a medium-frame, hammer-fired revolver built for personal protection and range work. Chambered in .38 Special and rated for +P ammunition, this six-shot DA/SA revolver offers a 4-inch barrel, fixed sights, and a transfer bar safety. It ships with black rubber finger-grooved grips and a steel/alloy frame, cylinder, and barrel. At a street price of $419.67, it delivers reliable defensive performance without the premium markup of custom revolvers.
Key Specifications
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 82 |
| Material | Steel frame, cylinder, and barrel; alloy components per manufacturer specs |
| Compatibility | .38 Special (standard pressure and +P rated) |
| Finish | Blued carbon steel |
| Weight | Approximately 34 oz (unloaded) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Six-Round Cylinder +P Rated — Why it matters: You can load standard .38 Special for practice and switch to +P hollow points for carry, giving you versatility without needing a second revolver.
- Double Action / Single Action Trigger — Why it matters: The heavy double-action pull (approx. 12 lbs) provides an extra layer of safety for concealed carry, while the single-action mode (approx. 4 lbs) lets you squeeze off precise shots at the range.
- Transfer Bar Safety System — Why it matters: This internal mechanism prevents the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled, reducing the risk of accidental discharge from drops or impacts.
- Finger-Grooved Rubber Grip — Why it matters: The rubber molding absorbs recoil and locks your hand into a consistent grip, especially important with +P loads that generate more snap than standard .38 Special.
- Fixed Front and Rear Sights — Why it matters: No adjustments to lose or break under stress. The front blade and rear notch are snag-resistant and provide a clear sight picture for defensive distances up to 15 yards.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits the concealed carry holder who wants a simple, reliable backup gun or a primary home-defense wheelgun. It also appeals to shooters who prefer a DA/SA revolver over a semi-auto for its intuitive manual of arms — point, pull, repeat. The 4-inch barrel balances concealability with sight radius, making it a solid choice for nightstand duty or a range companion for new shooters learning fundamentals.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: +P rated for defensive loads; six-round capacity; transfer bar safety adds drop protection; affordable price under $420; rubber grip tames recoil; steel frame soaks up muzzle flip.
- Cons: Fixed sights limit elevation adjustment; the double-action trigger pull is heavy (about 12 lbs) and may require practice for accuracy; the blued finish is less corrosion-resistant than stainless steel — wipe down after range sessions.
Comparison: Taurus 82 vs. Smith & Wesson Model 10 vs. Ruger SP101
| Feature | Taurus 82 | Smith & Wesson Model 10 | Ruger SP101 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special +P | .38 Special +P | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4″ | 4″ | 2.25″ or 3.06″ |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~34 oz | ~34 oz | ~27 oz |
| Action | DA/SA | DA/SA | DA/SA |
| Sights | Fixed | Fixed | Fixed (some adjustable) |
| Frame Material | Steel | Steel | Stainless steel |
| Price (approx.) | $419 | $750–$850 | $750–$850 |
| Best For | Budget defensive revolver, home defense, range | Collector-grade duty revolver | Concealed carry with .357 option |
The Taurus 82 undercuts both competitors by nearly half the price while still delivering a six-shot, +P-rated steel frame. The Smith & Wesson Model 10 offers tighter tolerances and a storied police history, but at a premium. The Ruger SP101 is more compact and offers .357 Magnum capability, but you lose one round and gain a shorter barrel. If you need a reliable six-shooter on a budget, the Taurus 82 is the practical choice.
FAQ
Is the Taurus 82 rated for +P ammunition?
Yes, per Taurus specs, the 82 is rated for +P .38 Special loads. You can safely use standard-pressure and +P ammunition. Avoid using +P+ as it exceeds SAAMI specs and may accelerate wear.
What is the trigger pull weight on the Taurus 82?
The double-action trigger pull measures approximately 12 pounds, and the single-action pull is around 4 pounds. This is typical for a defensive revolver and helps prevent negligent discharges during holstering.
Does the Taurus 82 have a safety?
Yes, it uses a transfer bar safety. This internal block prevents the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully depressed. There is no external manual safety, making it ready to draw and fire.
What grips come on the Taurus 82?
The revolver ships with black rubber finger-grooved grips. These are designed to absorb recoil and give you a secure hold. Aftermarket grips from Hogue or Pachmayr are compatible if you prefer a different size or material.
Is the Taurus 82 good for concealed carry?
It can work for concealed carry with a proper holster and cover garment, but the 4-inch barrel and steel frame make it heavier than compact revolvers. Many owners use it as a nightstand gun or range revolver. For dedicated carry, consider the 2-inch barrel version or a lighter alloy frame.
Why Buy the Taurus 82?
- ✅ Nationwide delivery — ships to all 50 states (check local laws)
- ✅ Ships within 1–2 business days from order
- ✅ 30-day return policy on unfired, unmodified firearms
- ✅ Secure checkout with encrypted payment processing
Last updated: April 2026
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