As a revolver nut and collector, I go to lots of pawn and gun shops, gun shows, etc looking at mostly used wheel guns, predominantly S&Ws, Rugers and Tauri. Mainly, I just enjoy the "thrill of the hunt". Often, I don't buy anything. When I am looking to make a purchase, and when end up passing on a revolver, I've noted the reasons for passing vary by brand. Here are my observations on why I end up passing on each of these 3 brands, worth exactly what you paid for it
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S&W: Interestingly, the vast majority of S&Ws I handle pass the revolver checkout with flying colors. Normally I pass because the asking price is way too high for my local market. I'm talking S&W Model 10-6s for $700 and Model 27s for $900 and over. 4" Model 19s for $600 aren't an uncommon sight either. Every now and then one comes along for the right price, and I usually snatch it up.
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Ruger: The most common reason I end up passing on Rugers is they often show obvious signs of abuse, specifically that they've fired massive quantities of full power +++ H Bomb loads. I'm talking totally trashed. I picked up a Speed Six once that had over .01" of end play
(I just stopped measuring at .01", it was actually more than that). Many I handle have near that amount. Also, forcing cones are often heavily eroded with a LOT of flame cutting of the top strap.
So it would seem that most take the old saying that "Rugers are built like tanks" as not only the gospel, but as a challenge.
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Taurus: Like S&W, I pass on many because of price. In my region, Tauri's are often as or nearly as expensive as S&Ws. Particularly the Model 66, which is typically about $450 - $500 where I live (used), same as a S&W 66. But also, numerous examples are out of spec enough in one manner or another I end up passing. Yes, they have a lifetime warranty, but I have dealt with Tauri's customer's disservice department once and I don't care to go there again. Loose rear sights, cylinder gap too tight or too loose, too much end shake, crappy trigger, etc.
I've owned 3 Taurus revolvers. As for great vs junk, I am 2:1. And this is basically what I have observed myself: they are either excellent firearms, or excellent door stops
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Everyone makes lemons, though Taurus does appear to make a higher percentage of lemons than say Ruger or S&W, at least in my experience and observations. Particularly with certain models (the PT-22 and Model 94 come immediately to mind). As always, check before you buy. A good one will give you years of enjoyment, without regard to the brand.
However, given my observations above, I will not buy a Ruger or Taurus sight unseen. I have bought a Smith or 3 through gunbroker though with great success.
As for Taurus, I picked up this 3" .44 Spl Model 431 about a year ago for $268. It is an absolute gem in every respect. And the 6" model 66 I sold 5 years ago? I regret selling it every day. The model 94 OTH? Good riddance.
