Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in personal defense revolvers. The Taurus Model 605 Protector 357 Magnum Polymer-Frame is a compact, five-shot revolver designed for concealed carry and personal protection. Its polymer frame reduces weight, making it comfortable for everyday carry while still handling potent .357 Magnum rounds. Available now at $299.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Taurus Model 605 Protector?
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Model | 605 Protector |
| Caliber | .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Action | Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches |
| Overall Length | 6.7 inches |
| Width | 1.4 inches |
| Height | 4.8 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 20.6 oz (approx.) |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Cylinder Material | Steel Alloy |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Sights | Fixed Front, Fixed Rear |
| Grip | Rubber |
| Safety | Transfer Bar |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 2-605021P |
What makes the Taurus 605 Protector stand out?
- Lightweight Polymer Frame: The polymer frame significantly reduces the revolver’s overall weight to just over 20 ounces, making it comfortable for all-day concealed carry without the bulk of an all-steel frame. This is a key feature for anyone prioritizing carry comfort.
- .357 Magnum Capability: Despite its compact size and polymer construction, this revolver is chambered for the potent .357 Magnum cartridge, offering significant stopping power. It also reliably fires .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition, providing versatility for practice and reduced recoil options.
- Compact and Concealable: With a 2-inch barrel and an overall length of 6.7 inches, the 605 Protector is designed for deep concealment. It fits well in various holsters, making it a viable option for personal defense.
- Reliable Revolver Action: Revolvers are known for their simplicity and reliability. The 605 Protector maintains this tradition with a straightforward double-action/single-action mechanism, reducing the chance of malfunctions often associated with semi-automatic pistols.
- Comfortable Rubber Grip: The integrated rubber grip helps absorb recoil, which is particularly useful when firing .357 Magnum rounds from a lightweight revolver. It also provides a secure hold, enhancing control.
Who should consider the Taurus 605 Protector?
Buy it if:
- You need a lightweight, compact revolver for concealed carry.
- You prefer the simplicity and reliability of a revolver over a semi-automatic pistol for self-defense.
- You want the option to carry potent .357 Magnum ammunition but also value the ability to train with less expensive and softer-shooting .38 Special.
- You are looking for a reliable backup gun or a primary carry option where deep concealment is paramount.
- You appreciate a comfortable grip on a small firearm to manage recoil.
Skip it if:
- You require a higher capacity firearm; five rounds may be insufficient for some scenarios. Consider a semi-automatic pistol for increased capacity.
- You are highly recoil-sensitive and plan to shoot .357 Magnum frequently; while the grip helps, a lightweight .357 Magnum will still have significant kick. A .38 Special-only revolver might be more comfortable.
- You prefer adjustable sights for precision shooting; the fixed sights on the 605 Protector are designed for close-range defense.
- You primarily shoot at longer distances; the short barrel and fixed sights are optimized for self-defense ranges.
What are the pros and cons of the Taurus 605 Protector?
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent power-to-weight ratio with .357 Magnum capability in a light package.
- ✅ Polymer frame significantly reduces carry weight compared to all-steel revolvers.
- ✅ Simple, reliable revolver action with minimal moving parts.
- ✅ Compact dimensions make it easy to conceal for personal defense.
- ✅ Comfortable rubber grip aids in recoil management and provides a secure hold.
- ✅ Versatile; handles both .357 Magnum and .38 Special/.38 Special +P ammunition.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited capacity of five rounds compared to many semi-automatic pistols.
- ❌ Recoil from .357 Magnum can be stout due to the lightweight frame, especially for new shooters.
- ❌ Fixed sights are not adjustable for windage or elevation, limiting precision at longer ranges.
How does the Taurus 605 Protector compare to other revolvers?
| Feature | Taurus 605 Protector | Charter Arms Undercover Lite | Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Polymer Frame, Steel Cylinder | Aluminum Frame, Steel Cylinder | Aluminum Alloy Frame, Stainless Steel Cylinder |
| Caliber | .357 Magnum / .38 Spl +P | .38 Special / .38 Spl +P | .38 Special / .38 Spl +P |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds | 5 Rounds | 5 Rounds |
| Weight (approx.) | 20.6 oz | 12 oz | 14.4 oz |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches | 2 inches | 1.875 inches |
| Price (approx.) | $299 | $400 | $550 |
| Key Advantage | .357 Mag in a light polymer frame | Extremely lightweight .38 Spl | Renowned S&W reliability and quality |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Taurus 605 Protector
Is the Taurus Model 605 Protector suitable for concealed carry?
Yes, the Taurus Model 605 Protector is specifically designed for concealed carry. Its compact size, 2-inch barrel, and lightweight polymer frame make it easy to carry discreetly in various holsters.
Can the Taurus 605 Protector reliably handle .357 Magnum ammunition?
Yes, the Taurus 605 Protector is chambered for .357 Magnum and is built to safely and reliably fire these powerful cartridges. The steel cylinder and barrel are robust, though the lightweight polymer frame means recoil will be noticeable.
What types of ammunition can I use in the Taurus Model 605 Protector?
You can use both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition, including .38 Special +P loads. This versatility allows for training with less expensive and lower-recoil .38 Special, while carrying .357 Magnum for self-defense.
How does the polymer frame affect durability and recoil?
The polymer frame significantly reduces the overall weight, making the revolver lighter for carry. While it is durable for its intended purpose, the reduced mass means you will experience more felt recoil when firing .357 Magnum compared to a heavier, all-steel revolver. The rubber grip helps mitigate this.
What kind of sights does the Taurus 605 Protector have?
The Taurus 605 Protector comes with fixed sights, meaning they are not adjustable for windage or elevation. These sights are designed for quick target acquisition at self-defense distances.
Where can I buy revolvers online?
You can purchase revolvers online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We process the order and ship it to your chosen local FFL dealer for transfer, following all federal and state regulations.
Is this revolver a good choice for a first-time gun owner?
For a first-time gun owner, the simplicity of a revolver can be appealing. However, the .357 Magnum recoil in a lightweight frame can be challenging. Starting with .38 Special ammunition for practice is recommended. Consider professional instruction to manage the recoil effectively.
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Last updated: April 2026
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