Taurus Defender 605 TORO & Defender 856 TORO – Optics Ready 38/357

Every star deserves a good “origin story” and one of the darlings to come from SHOT Show 2023 was Taurus’ Defender 605 TORO and Defender 856 TORO – the first ever optics ready defensive revolvers. After Taurus effectively knocked it out of the park with their 856 Executive Grade last October, they leaned into their customer base asking what they would want to see next. The response was an optic ready revolver and Taurus delivered.

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By integrating the T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optic Ready Option) technology into some of their most popular, small frame defensive revolvers in the model 856 and 605, we have a blend of modern features that are typically only present on semi-auto pistols, but finally available in a revolver. At the outset, there are 4 offerings being brought to market with Matte Black or Stainless Steel finishes in a Defender 605 TORO or Defender 856 TORO. This also gives concealed carry advocates the choice of a dedicated .38 SPL+P or the boosted option of a .357 Magnum.

Introducing the first ever optics ready small frame revolvers, the Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. and the Taurus 605 T.O.R.O.
The advantages to a red dot on a revolver are significant. Obviously, red dot sights are easier for many people to shoot.
Both the 856 and 605 T.O.R.O. are based on the incredibly popular Defender series from Taurus. These revolvers feature all steel construction, three-inch barrels, and a replaceable front sight.
We’ve partnered with industry leading brands in the concealment space so that when you get your T.O.R.O. revolver, you won’t have to wait six months for a holster. And of course, we’ve maintained our commitment to making reliable, affordable firearms.

By having the T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optic Ready Option) system add an optic plate directly into the trench of the rear sight, you can have a micro red dot available to you with a low-sighting profile that feels both intuitive and natural to your iron sights’ point-of-aim. The mount that comes with these revolvers from the factory is compatible with the popular Holosun K footprint. So, whether you own a Holosun or a competing brand’s optic, it is a generally common footprint to adapt a micro red dot to this optic. As always, let us know your thoughts in the Comments below. We always appreciate your feedback.

Adam Scepaniak