Taurus Model 85

• Name — Model 85 • Origin — Brazil • Type — Revolver • Production Date — 1980–2017 (85) 2018-present (856) • Used By — See Users • Is Ranged — yes • Cartridge —.38 Special +P • Action — Double action/single action • Part Length — 50.8 mm or 76.2 mm • Width — 34.2 mm • Height — 109 mm • Feed — 5 shot cylinder • Sights — fixed front sight

In the United States, the guns are marketed for concealed carry and personal protection. There are a number of significant internal differences between the Taurus 85 and similar Smith & Wesson revolvers. Because of these differences, Taurus has been able to keep costs relatively low. However, those same differences can make customization of the Model 85 more expensive.

The Model 85 is available with either 2" or 3" barrels, is capable of firing +P rated.38 Special rounds, and utilizes a transfer bar safety. Models manufactured after 1997 feature the Taurus Security System, which consists of a keyed, quarter-turn style socket-head screw which can be set to prevent the hammer from pivoting back into the frame, thus rendering the weapon inoperative. The Model 85 is available in several configurations. These include blued steel, stainless steel, polymer frame, and "Ultralite" variants constructed of aluminum and titanium, with steel lockwork components. Much like Smith & Wesson revolvers, Model 85s can come equipped with exposed, "bobbed" (850), or shrouded (851) hammers. There are numerous cosmetic options, including gold-plated hardware and grips of wood or pearl.

• Illustration — Taurus Model 85 in black The Model 85 line has been enlarged to include the Model 856. This model is similar to the Model 85, but adds an additional round in the cylinder to bring the Model 856's capacity to 6 rounds. Other related models were the Taurus 856 Executive Grade, with include a three-inch barrel and stainless-steel construction and the barrel and underlug are machined as one piece.

The View, also known as the model 85VTA, was introduced in 2014. It has a 1.41 inch barrel, an aluminum frame and titanium cylinder, and a clear polycarbonate side plate for an unloaded weight of 9.5 ounces. Unlike other models, the View is only rated for standard pressure.38 Special ammunition. Ultimately, the View was not a commercial success and was pulled from production in December 2014. A revised model, the "No View" with an aluminum side plate replacing the clear one, was introduced in 2015.

• Singapore • Singapore Police Force • Remain in use by auxiliary units • Issued to frontline officers in 2002, being replaced by the Glock 19 • Singapore Prison Service • Immigration and Checkpoints Authority