Based in Florida, the gun manufacturer Taurus USA is well known for their simple, reliable, relatively inexpensive, and stylish revolvers that can shoot more than one type of ammunition. They have been producing a very popular range of wheel guns for over 70 years and pioneered unique features such as the full-length ejector rod, the yoke detent, and the Taurus security system.
Taurus is famous for making revolvers that can run a variety of ammo types with frames that can shoot a .357, .38 special, or certain types of shotgun shells with no modification. However, this is the first time this manufacturer has produced a revolver that can handle the type of diet that this particular gun prefers.
The all-new 692 is chambered in .357 magnum. Like any other .357 revolver, you can also fire .38 special loads. Where this gun sets itself apart is that it also shoots 9mm after you install the conversion cylinder. You may be thinking that Taurus probably already has a 9mm revolver, and they do. But it cannot switch to .357 and .38. The Taurus 9mm fires 9mm only- so, if you’re in the market for a Taurus revolver that fires 9mm, but also has a wider range of capabilities- then this is the gun for you.
Unlike the famous Taurus Judge, it does not fire .410 shotgun shells or any other shotgun shell. Taurus is famous for their shotgun shell firing revolver. So, if that’s what turned you on to the brand, then this might not be what you’re looking for.
But speaking from a practical point of view- particularly from a survivalist point of view, 9mm is probably the most common type of ammunition out there. So, when the bombs drop and the Earth opens up- having a gun that can shoot all of the types of ammo that you’re going to be able to find most readily as you scour the badlands for an unspoiled can of beans- the Taurus 692 just might be your best bet.
You might be thinking, ‘Swap the cylinder? Man, I hate chores!’ We understand, and so does Taurus. Unfortunately, there was just no way for them to deliver a cylinder that could handle .357 and 9mm. So, yes- you will have to hang on to the extra cylinder, but it really doesn’t take up much room in your bug out bag.
Fortunately, Taurus thought about this when they designed the cylinder breakdown mechanism. The 690 cylinder comes out easily, but more importantly- it reinstalls securely. The switch takes only about a minute- and you will only need a screwdriver.
One word of warning- make sure you use a high-quality screwdriver that fits correctly to avoid fouling up the screw head.
The cylinders are unfluted, which might be a disappointment to some, but the finish will last a little bit longer, and to be honest- the nonfluted cylinder adds weight to reduce recoil. It is just more practical all around. If you want a pretty gun, you might think about getting a Colt Navy.
Other options on the 692 include two different barrel lengths and you can choose either matte black or a stainless finish. The available barrel lengths are 3” for better concealment and the 6.5” for a bit more velocity and better performance at the range.
Another feature this gun offers that you don’t see on a lot of revolvers is the ported barrel. This makes the gun look a bit more menacing, and it also helps with the recoil. This is an added touch that really drives the appeal to practicality home. Not only are you going to be able to shoot a wide range of common ammo types- but Taurus also put a lot of consideration into the way it handles. Take our word for it, when it comes to delivering stopping power at a fighting distance of 7 to 10 yards- a .357 with minimal recoil is about as good as it gets.
The disadvantage of the porting is that it creates more muzzle flash. However, with the extra decibels you get from a revolver, that really isn’t a concern. So, just enjoy the exciting fireballs that you’re going to get out of this bad boy.
On top of all this practicality- the Taurus 692 is also a seven shooter. That can be a great tactical advantage- especially if your attacker only expects you to have six in the chamber.
All in all, the Taurus 692 is an eminently versatile and practical gun for home protection or all around self-defense.
~ American Gun News
I like wheel guns, I haven’t seen this one, would like to see it in my hands.
how many rounds does it hold
Capacity of 7.
I have owned two Taurus revolvers, an Ultra Lite 380 and a 22lr. I thought in both cases the trigger pull was rather stiff. I also have a Taurus snub nose 38 special and that one not only shoots very well but the trigger pull is much more reasonable.
Not sure why they have such stiff triggers on some of their revolvers.
I like the this gun and would like to see the price on it
What is the MSRP?
Needs to take the F out too!!!!
I have the Judge that accurately shoots .45 Colt and also .410 shotgun shells. It’s a beast and a seriously imposing Home Defense weapon. I call it the “Big Ugly” but I love having it on the bedside table each night.
I’m aware Taurus makes a reasonably decent mid-priced gun and was curious about the 692 because it can shoot .357, 38, and 9mm. I am disappointed there is no hint of a potential price for the gun. The write up seems extremely unfinished without the knowledge of what it costs.
MSRP: $659.00