Taurus Model 96 Target Scout

[skeezix]

Anybody have/had a Taurus Model 96 Target Scout? I would be interested in any information you could share as to quality, accuracy, reliability, etc.

As best I can tell from my research, the gun is a clone of the S&W model 17 and was discontued in 1998. Other than that, I can't find much information on it.

Thanks.

Lorin

 

[LTR shooter]

I have a Taurus 96 , not sure if it is the Scout version or not. Bought it used earlier this year.


It does indeed resemble an old Smith 17 - in fact that's what I thought it was at first.

The first range session resulted in quite a bit of misfires. I was pretty displeased to say the least. Later found out the hammer spring or mainspring , has an adjustment to increase or decrease tension. After a few adjustments the Taurus is now very reliable.

The accuracy has been very good even when firing cheap ammo like Federal Lightning. It does not have that crisp , glass rod break of a Smith in the SA mode. But it seems that a good trigger pull should not be too hard to achieve.

The bluing is very nice for a "budget" revolver. What looks like discoloration on the sideplate in the above pic is probably oil that was not wiped off completely.

Overall for the $239 I paid I am very satisfied with this 96.

 

[GP100man]

got 1 just like it , had the ftf issues in da & did the same titened spring up a little , still shoot it in sa though.
carrys well & a fun 22 revolver!!

oh yeah no lock on it anywhere!

 

[skeezix]

Thanks, LTR and GP, for the replies and evaluations. I may have a chance to trade for one tomorrow and wanted some "experience" to factor into my decision.

Lorin