Taurus 817 – A Seven Round .38 Special +P Powerhouse

July 23, 2025

The Taurus 817 marks a significant evolution for Taurus’s concealed‑carry revolvers, packing a complete seven rounds of .38 Special +P into a compact, stainless‑steel frame. With a 2-inch barrel, DA/SA trigger, removable front sight, and rugged stainless-steel finish, it’s purpose-built for everyday self-defense without compromise.

Taurus Has Led the Revolver Industry and Now Offer the New Taurus 817

 Built on a medium-frame platform, the 817 is all-stainless, offering durability and a sleek matte finish. Weighing about 30 oz its weight balances recoil without being annoyance of an uncomfortable carry. The 2 ” barrel and modest overall length make concealment easy while still providing a predictable shooting experience.

Soft rubber grips, compatible with Judge/Tracker models, enhance comfort and recoil management. Its DA/SA trigger and exposed hammer provide versatility—from rapid double-action shots to precise single-action follow-ups. The front ramp sight is removable, and multiple aftermarket options fit its footprint, thanks to shared dimensions with the Taurus 856. A fixed rear notch completes the basic but functional sighting system.

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The Taurus 817 is chambered in .38 +P

Seven Round Capacity

 The most notable feature of this gun is its capacity—a seven‑round cylinder in .38 Special +P—placing more rounds than most compact revolvers. The +P option delivers higher pressure, resulting in stronger muzzle energy, flatter trajectories, and improved stopping power compared to standard .38 Special.

Stainless steel construction handles +P stress while offering long-term corrosion resistance. The revolver is engineered to endure daily carry and hard use. Its 2‑inch barrel offers a good balance—compact for concealment, sufficient wound‑channeling velocity, and reasonably accurate within defensive ranges (typically under 25 yards). Some legacy Ultra-Lite models (with alloy frames) offered ported barrels to reduce muzzle flip, but the new all-steel 817 is focused on durability and dependable recoil characteristics.

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The 817 is lightweight and compact.

Zero Compromise

 Taurus   captured over 60% of the U.S. revolver market in recent years. Known for marrying affordability with modern features, the 817 is positioned as a “zero compromise” offering for concealed‑carry enthusiasts. Its seven‑shot capacity puts it ahead of most snub revolvers, while its stainless build projects quality and longevity.

The Taurus 817 is a seven round powerhouse.

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The Taurus 817

 The Taurus 817 is a modern revolver innovation: seven shots of .38+P, a robust stainless steel build, and adaptable ergonomics in a concealable package. Priced under $650, it offers strong value compared to premium-brand competitors. Whether for seasoned revolver users or newcomers seeking a trustworthy, no‑nonsense carry option, the 817 delivers on capacity, reliability, and modern practicality—earning its motto of “seven rounds, zero compromise.”

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Taurus 817 Technical Specifications

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Caliber.38 Special +P
Capacity7 rounds
Barrel Length2″
Overall Length8”
Height4.78”
Width1.53”
Frame / Barrel / CylinderStainless steel
FinishMatte stainless
ActionDouble‑action/single‑action with exposed hammer
SightsRemovable front ramp, fixed rear notch
GripSoft rubber, Judge/Tracker compatible
Weight (unloaded)30.26 oz
MSRP$648.99
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