Difference between Rossi 59 and Taurus 72 (both .22 mag)

[Unlicensed Dremel]

Difference between Rossi 59 and Taurus 72 (both .22 mag pumps based on Winchester 62).

Greetings. Yes, that is the question. I cannot find anything on the net about this... same thing or some subtle differences? Near as I can tell, same rifle, but..... Any info would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[chestnut ridge]

difference

The Taurus 72 has a safety located on top of the bolt. it rotates and
blocks the firing pin. The Taurus also was made in a carbine version.
Taurus 172 was the stainless carbine version. I think both are similar
otherwise; but I don't know if parts will interchange.

 

[Hoppes Love Potion]

The standard barrel Taurus 72 is 23 inches, which is too long for the .22 Magnum and does not add that much velocity. The carbine version of the 72 is 16.5". The sweet spot for .22 mag as far as velocity vs barrel length is 19". I'd seek out the carbine if I was in the market.

 

[Unlicensed Dremel]

Agreed, thanks. But the 23"er holds two more rounds (10 vs. 12), so I'm gonna cut, crown and sight setback at about 18 or 19" - best of all worlds. Thanks.

I'm guessing the silly fragile safety is the only difference between the two models. I just bought one (a Rossi 59) off of gunbroker with a scope mount (not the one that replaces the rear safety, but a drill & tap one).

Oddly enough, this project rifle is a self-defense gun, not hunting/varmint, for the ol' lady. 12 rounds of .22 mag is nothing to sneeze at, lightning fast due to no recoil and the pump action, and the main drawback of rimfires for self-defense (unreliable ignition) is overcome, in the sense that if it clicks, you just keep on pumping and pulling the trigger - a dud doesn't jam the action like a semi-auto.

 

[chicharrones]

I'm looking forward to seeing this modified pump .22 mag rifle.

What made you choose a slide action vs. a lever like Henry's .22 mag?