TAURUS 605 EXECUTIVE GRADE

The Taurus 605 Executive Grade is a premium version of the well-known Taurus 605, a small-frame revolver designed for concealed carry and self-defense. Chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special, this revolver blends compact size, power, and craftsmanship, making it a standout option for those seeking a high-quality, refined defensive firearm. With a 2.5-inch barrel, hand-polished stainless-steel finish, custom walnut grips, and an upgraded trigger system, the 605 Executive Grade represents Taurus’ commitment to offering premium features at an accessible price point.

In this in-depth guide, we will explore the history, design, features, performance, and applications of the Taurus 605 Executive Grade, detailing what makes it an excellent choice for everyday carry, home defense, and recreational shooting.

History and Evolution of the Taurus 605

Taurus: A Legacy of Affordable Innovation

Taurus, a Brazilian firearms manufacturer founded in 1939, has built a strong reputation for producing affordable, reliable, and innovative handguns. Known for their revolvers and semi-automatic pistols, Taurus has become a significant player in the personal defense and law enforcement markets.

The original Taurus 605 was introduced as a small-frame revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, designed to compete with compact revolvers from brands like Smith & Wesson and Ruger. Over the years, the 605 has gained popularity due to its balance of power, durability, and affordability.

The Birth of the Executive Grade Line

In recent years, Taurus has aimed to elevate its reputation with higher-end, performance-focused models under the Executive Grade series. These revolvers are hand-assembled by Taurus’ skilled gunsmiths, ensuring a superior fit and finish, enhanced trigger tuning, and premium materials. The Taurus 605 Executive Grade embodies this vision by combining the reliability of the original 605 with refined aesthetics and upgraded functionality.

Design and Features

Premium Stainless-Steel Construction

One of the standout features of the Taurus 605 Executive Grade is its hand-polished satin stainless-steel finish. Unlike standard production models, which may have a basic matte or blued finish, the Executive Grade model undergoes extensive polishing, giving it a sleek, high-end look while improving corrosion resistance.

The all-steel construction provides durability and weight, helping to mitigate recoil, which is particularly important when firing .357 Magnum rounds from a compact revolver.

Barrel and Sight System

The 2.5-inch barrel of the 605 Executive Grade strikes a balance between compactness and accuracy. Compared to a snub-nose revolver with a 2-inch barrel, the extra half-inch helps to increase muzzle velocity and improve handling without compromising concealability.

For aiming, the revolver features a fixed rear sight and a high-visibility front sight, designed for quick target acquisition. While some shooters prefer adjustable sights, the fixed setup ensures durability and reliability, especially for defensive use where quick-draw accuracy matters more than fine adjustments.

Trigger and Action

One of the most notable enhancements in the Executive Grade model is its specially tuned trigger system. The double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger has been refined to offer a smoother, lighter pull, improving precision in single-action mode and rapid-fire control in double-action mode.

• Single-action mode: Provides a crisp, light break, making it ideal for precise shots.
• Double-action mode: Offers a smooth and predictable pull, ensuring reliability under stress.

This upgraded trigger system sets the Executive Grade apart from standard Taurus revolvers, making it feel like a custom shop revolver at a factory price.

Custom Walnut Grips

Unlike the rubberized grips found on most Taurus revolvers, the 605 Executive Grade is equipped with custom checkered walnut grips. These grips provide a classic, sophisticated aesthetic while enhancing ergonomics and control. The wood grips add a premium feel, making the revolver stand out both visually and functionally.

While some shooters may prefer rubber grips for maximum recoil absorption, the contoured walnut grips offer a good balance between comfort, control, and concealability.

Cylinder and Capacity

The Taurus 605 Executive Grade has a five-round capacity, which is standard for compact .357 Magnum revolvers. While this is fewer rounds compared to compact semi-automatics, revolvers are known for their mechanical reliability, making them a preferred choice for users who value simplicity and dependability.

The smooth cylinder release ensures quick reloading, and speed loaders or speed strips can be used to enhance reload efficiency in defensive situations.

Performance and Shooting Experience

Recoil and Handling

Firing a .357 Magnum round from a compact revolver can be challenging due to the intense recoil, but the stainless-steel frame and ergonomic walnut grips help absorb some of the kick. Additionally, shooters have the option to use .38 Special rounds, which produce significantly less recoil, making the 605 Executive Grade a versatile option for different levels of experience.

For those sensitive to recoil, practicing with .38 Special is a great way to develop confidence before transitioning to the more powerful .357 Magnum cartridges.

Accuracy and Precision

The specially tuned trigger enhances accuracy by allowing shooters to achieve a smooth pull and clean break, reducing the tendency to jerk the trigger. The high-visibility front sight also aids in quick target acquisition, making the revolver effective at close to medium ranges (7-15 yards), which is ideal for defensive situations.

Use Cases and Applications

Concealed Carry and Personal Defense

The compact size, lightweight design, and powerful caliber options make the Taurus 605 Executive Grade a fantastic choice for everyday carry (EDC). It is small enough to be comfortably carried inside the waistband (IWB), outside the waistband (OWB), or in an ankle holster.

For self-defense, the .357 Magnum rounds provide excellent stopping power, while the option to use .38 Special allows for manageable training and defensive shooting.

Home Defense

As a home defense firearm, the 605 Executive Grade is easy to store and quick to deploy. The double-action trigger and simple revolver mechanism ensure that it functions reliably under stress, making it a dependable choice for home protection.

Backup Gun for Law Enforcement

Some law enforcement officers prefer revolvers as backup guns, and the Taurus 605 Executive Grade is a solid choice due to its compact frame and reliable action. It serves as an excellent last-resort firearm when a primary duty weapon is inaccessible or malfunctions.

Recreational Shooting and Collecting

For revolver enthusiasts, the Executive Grade model adds a level of craftsmanship that makes it appealing as a collector’s item or a range firearm. The premium aesthetics, smooth trigger, and reliable performance make it a joy to shoot for both beginners and experienced marksmen.