“New” does not always translate to “better.” At times, it’s wise to take a step back to where we started. At least those were my thoughts when I reached down and picked up the Taurus Raging Bull sitting on the shooting bench.
I was at the first annual Athlon Rendezvous Gateway, Colo. Taurus was one of nearly 30 manufacturers partaking in the three-day event. Just the sight of a large-frame revolver sent me spiraling back in time to the day when revolvers ruled the handgun market and anything chambered in .44 Magnum was king of the hill. However, the flood of “Wonder-Nines” introduced in the mid-70s eventually supplanted the revolver as the handgun of choice.
In the Field
Yet, just the fact that manufacturers produce so many different models proves that revolvers still have a place in the market. They are often used by many for home defense or for outdoor adventures where they can’t be beat.
In fact, it is those outdoor adventures that is the primary purpose of the Taurus Raging Bull. These revolvers are available in .44 Remington Magnum and .454 Casull, and in barrel lengths ranging from 2.25 inches to 8.375 inches.
I got to play with the 6.5-inch model, the one that, in my opinion, is the most versatile. The shorter models are ideal for easy carry in situations where you need a sidearm for protection from snakes or large predators. The longer barrels, however, make this a premier weapon for handgun hunting.
In .44 Magnum these guns have a six-round capacity. If that won’t put your quarry down then you have no business shooting at it.
Fortunately for all of us, as semi-autos were being developed one after the next, subtle changes were also being made to revolvers.
.44 Magnum Upgrades
The .44 Mag was notorious for tearing apart handguns and shooters. The Raging Bull is equipped with a dual locking system on the cylinder to combat the torque created by the pressures of the .44 Magnum and the barrels are ported to counteract the recoil. For the comfort of the shooter, Taurus has created a synthetic grip with a cushioned insert to further dampen the felt recoil.
Taurus has not overlooked the aspect of safety with its revolvers either. The Raging Bull is equipped with the Taurus “Transfer Bar” safety, assuring the firearm will not fire until the trigger is pulled. The Taurus Security System (TSS) assures the gun cannot be fired or cocked with the simple turn of a key.
My time with this handgun was well spent. Even though the Raging Bull’s stainless steel construction could have handled any conditions, the weather that day was great. Even my old eyes found the sights perfect and “ringing the steel” was easy.
After six shots all I could do was grab more ammunition. I was having too much fun as flashbacks to my competitive days of “Handgun Silhouettes” matches danced through my head. Just imagine what my scores could have been if I had a Taurus Raging Bull on my side.
Taurus Raging Bull Specifications
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Status: Available
- Caliber: .44 Magnum
- Grips: Soft Rubber
- Capacity: 6
- Weight: 53 ounces
- Barrel Length: 6.5 inches
- Action: DA/SA
- Front Sight: Patridge
- Rear Sight: Adjustable
- Trigger Type: Smooth
- MSRP: $839
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