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December 28, 1999

Taurus International is now offering a line of lightweight, double-action revolvers made mostly from titanium for the concealed-carry market. Smith & Wesson recently offered a pistol which used titanium only for the cylinder and various small parts. The S&W frame was aluminum. The new Taurus pistols are mostly titanium, using it for the frame, cylinder, and most parts. A steel barrel is used because titanium does not take rifling very well. Titanium is lighter and stronger than steel and is virtually proof against corrosion. The Model 450 (in .45 Colt) weighs 19.2 ounces, is 8.5 inches long and 5.5 inches high, and has a two-inch barrel. It retails for $599. This model is also available for .38 special, .32 H&RM, .357, .41, and .44 special. The model 85 (.38 special) weighs only 13.5 ounces, and is 7.875 inches long vs 4.625 inches high, also with a two-inch barrel. It retails for $515. --Stephen V Cole