Yes, just as strong or stronger than a Smith and Wesson. The main gripes with Taurus are over quality control. My M66s, frankly, are stronger than my old M19 was, I'm convinced. I wouldn't hand load 'em as hot as I do my Ruger Blackhawk (nothing short of a Freedom Arms is THAT strong), but it'll take any factory load.
One caution, you don't mention model, but the hot .45 Colt +P ruger only stuff should NOT be fired in Gauchos. The Gaucho is a Colt clone, not to be used with hot .45 Colt.