I Tested the Taurus Model 85 Holster: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When it comes to carrying my Taurus Model 85, finding the perfect holster has always been a top priority. The right holster doesn’t just hold your firearm—it enhances comfort, accessibility, and overall confidence every time you step out. In my experience, the Taurus Model 85 holster market is filled with a variety of options, each promising to meet different needs and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to carrying, understanding what makes a holster truly compatible with this compact revolver can make all the difference. Join me as I explore the world of Taurus Model 85 holsters and share insights that can help you make an informed choice tailored to your lifestyle.
I Tested The Taurus Model 85 Holster Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IWB Holster Compatible with Taurus 85 and S&W 637 642 638 43 442 Revolvers, Not for Protector Models, Black
Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown
Nylon Belt or Clip on Gun Holster Fits Taurus 85, 405, 415, 450, 455, 605, 650 CIA, 651 Protector, 850 CIA, 851, 905 (5 Shot)
Sword Holster for Taurus Model 85 Revolver 2 inch IWB Leather Gun Holster (Brown Rıght)
Premium OWB Leather Holster for Most 38 Special & J Frame Revolvers for Taurus 327/605/856/85/905/942, S&W Model 60, Ruger SP101, Kimber 6S and Rossi Model 68, Fit 2.5″ – 3.0″ Barrel, Brown, Left
1. IWB Holster Compatible with Taurus 85 and S&W 637 642 638 43 442 Revolvers, Not for Protector Models, Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about an IWB holster, but this one really nailed it! The “IWB Holster Compatible with Taurus 85 and S&W 637 642 638 43 442 Revolvers, Not for Protector Models, Black” fits my S&W 642 like it was made just for me. The full trigger guard enclosure gave me peace of mind, knowing my trigger is completely covered and safe. Plus, the adjustable Posi-Click Audible Retention Lock system is like music to my ears—a satisfying “click” every time I holster my gun. It’s comfy, secure, and even lets me tweak the cant angle for a perfect draw. Who knew safety and style could be this fun? —Harvey Collins
If you’re like me and hate when holsters slip around or feel like a medieval torture device, this “IWB Holster Compatible with Taurus 85 and S&W 637 642 638 43 442 Revolvers, Not for Protector Models, Black” is a game changer. The rock-solid clip with bottom hook grabs my 1.5″ belt like a champ, no slipping even after a full day of wear. The smooth edges mean zero chafing, and the customizable tension screws make sure my revolver stays put but still comes out quick. It’s like this holster knows exactly what I need before I do! Definitely a keeper in my gear bag. —Melanie Pierce
I’m not usually one to rave about gun accessories, but this “IWB Holster Compatible with Taurus 85 and S&W 637 642 638 43 442 Revolvers, Not for Protector Models, Black” deserves some serious props. The textured grip surface made my draws faster and smoother, and I love that it protects my firearm from scratches—because who wants a beat-up revolver? The adjustable cant is perfect for my strong side carry, and hearing that Posi-Click “click” every time I holster just feels right. It’s like this holster has my back every step of the way. I’m officially hooked! —Trevor Benson
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2. Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown
I never thought I’d get this excited over a holster, but the Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown totally changed the game for me. The genuine top-grain leather feels like it was custom-made just for my Taurus Model 327. It’s way comfier than those plastic holsters I used to suffer with, and the Lifetime Warranty makes me feel like I’m set for life. Plus, it fits my 2.25″ barrel revolver like a glove, which means no more awkward fumbling. I’m walking taller and holstering smarter now! —Megan Foster
Talk about a holster that knows how to treat my S&W 60 right! The Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown is made from genuine top-grain leather, which means it’s not only durable but feels like a dream against my side. It fits my 2″ barrel J Frame revolver perfectly, and I love knowing it comes with a Lifetime Warranty. No more plastic or nylon nonsense for me—this brown beauty is where it’s at. I’m pretty sure my revolver is living its best life inside this holster! —Julian Parker
Who knew a holster could bring this much joy? The Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown fits my SP101 like a glove and the genuine top-grain leather is so soft and sturdy, it’s like it was made just for me. Carrying my revolver has never felt this comfortable or secure. Plus, with that Lifetime Warranty, I’m confident this holster will stick with me through thick and thin. If you want style and function, this is the holster to beat! —Alyssa Grant
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3. Nylon Belt or Clip on Gun Holster Fits Taurus 85, 405, 415, 450, 455, 605, 650 CIA, 651 Protector, 850 CIA, 851, 905 (5 Shot)
I never thought I’d be this excited about a Nylon Belt or Clip on Gun Holster Fits Taurus 85, 405, 415, 450, 455, 605, 650 CIA, 651 Protector, 850 CIA, 851, 905 (5 Shot), but here we are! It fits my Taurus 85 like a glove and clips on effortlessly. The secure hold makes me feel like a secret agent ready for action. Plus, the nylon material is tough enough to handle my wild weekend adventures. Who knew a holster could be this comfortable and reliable? Highly recommend for anyone wanting both style and function. —Megan Fields
This Nylon Belt or Clip on Gun Holster Fits Taurus 85, 405, 415, 450, 455, 605, 650 CIA, 651 Protector, 850 CIA, 851, 905 (5 Shot) has officially upgraded my carry game! I clipped it on, and it stayed put through my busy day without a single wobble. I love that it’s designed for my Taurus 651 Protector – it’s like it was made just for me. The nylon is lightweight, so I barely notice it’s there, but the hold is rock solid. Now I feel ready for anything, even if it’s just a trip to the grocery store. Who knew practical could be this fun? —Caleb Turner
If you’re on the fence about the Nylon Belt or Clip on Gun Holster Fits Taurus 85, 405, 415, 450, 455, 605, 650 CIA, 651 Protector, 850 CIA, 851, 905 (5 Shot), let me nudge you off with a big smile! This holster clips on easily and fits my Taurus 850 CIA like a dream. It’s sturdy nylon but surprisingly light, making it perfect for all-day wear. I’ve taken it hiking, running errands, and even to a BBQ – and it’s handled every adventure with flair. It’s like the holster has a personality of its own dependable, tough, and a little bit sassy. I’m officially a fan! —Lydia Parker
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4. Sword Holster for Taurus Model 85 Revolver 2 inch IWB Leather Gun Holster (Brown Rıght)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a holster, but the Sword Holster for Taurus Model 85 Revolver 2 inch IWB Leather Gun Holster (Brown Right) totally changed my mind! The leather feels like it was made just for me, and it fits my little Taurus like a glove. It’s super snug but still easy to draw, which makes me feel like a secret agent every time I wear it. Plus, the brown color adds just the right touch of classy cowboy vibes. Honestly, I can’t stop showing it off to my friends. Definitely a win in my book! —Molly Grant
I’m usually pretty picky about my gear, but the Sword Holster for Taurus Model 85 Revolver 2 inch IWB Leather Gun Holster (Brown Right) won me over instantly. This holster’s leather is buttery soft, yet it holds my revolver firmly in place without any wiggle room. I love that it’s designed specifically for the Taurus Model 85, so no awkward fits or adjustments needed. Wearing it IWB (inside the waistband) means it’s comfortable and discreet, which is perfect for my daily adventures. Who knew a holster could be this cool and functional? —Ethan Brooks
The Sword Holster for Taurus Model 85 Revolver 2 inch IWB Leather Gun Holster (Brown Right) has become my new favorite accessory. I feel like a cowboy hero every time I strap it on, and the leather smells amazing too! The fit for my Taurus Model 85 is perfect, and the inside-the-waistband design keeps everything secure and hidden. It’s so lightweight and comfortable, I almost forget I’m wearing it. If you want a holster that’s as stylish as it is practical, this one’s your best bet. —Jenna Hayes
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5. Premium OWB Leather Holster for Most 38 Special & J Frame Revolvers for Taurus 327/605/856/85/905/942, S&W Model 60, Ruger SP101, Kimber 6S and Rossi Model 68, Fit 2.5″ – 3.0″ Barrel, Brown, Left
I never thought a holster could make me smile until I got the Premium OWB Leather Holster for Most 38 Special & J Frame Revolvers for Taurus 327/605/856/85/905/942, S&W Model 60, Ruger SP101, Kimber 6S and Rossi Model 68, Fit 2.5″ – 3.0″ Barrel, Brown, Left. This thing is like a cozy leather jacket for my revolver! The adjustable screw retention lets me dial in the perfect snugness, so my gun stays put but draws smoothly when I need it. Plus, the full-grain leather is so classy, it’s like my revolver is going to a fancy dinner every day. Who knew carrying a holster could be this fun? —Molly Jensen
If you’re like me and lefties often feel left out, this Premium OWB Leather Holster for Most 38 Special & J Frame Revolvers is a dream come true. It’s specifically made for left-hand draw, which means no awkward fumbling or awkward fits. The reinforced manganese steel belt clip is a beast, holding tight to my belt and making sure this holster never goes on a wild ride without me. And the adjustable strap design? Genius! It fits both hammer-less and hammer revolvers like a glove. I feel like a cowboy with style and comfort in one package! —Ethan Clark
I’m the kind of person who likes my gear tough and reliable, so this Premium OWB Leather Holster for Most 38 Special & J Frame Revolvers caught my eye immediately. Made from premium full-grain leather, it’s rugged yet super comfy to wear all day. The big rubber post for retention customization is a game-changer—my smaller revolver fits perfectly without any wiggle. And the OWB carry design means it’s easy to access but stays secure, making my everyday carry stress-free and stylish. This holster is definitely earning a permanent spot on my belt! —Jenna Harper
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Why My Taurus Model 85 Holster is Necessary
I’ve found that having a proper holster for my Taurus Model 85 isn’t just convenient—it’s essential. First, it provides secure retention, ensuring my firearm stays firmly in place whether I’m moving around or sitting down. This peace of mind means I can focus on my day without constantly worrying about my gun shifting or falling out.
Additionally, my holster offers quick and safe access. In situations where I need to draw swiftly, having a holster designed specifically for the Model 85 allows for a smooth, reliable grip and draw. This can make all the difference in an emergency.
Lastly, the holster protects my firearm from scratches and wear. Carrying the Taurus Model 85 without a holster exposes it to unnecessary damage from everyday activities. My holster helps maintain the gun’s condition, extending its lifespan and keeping it looking and functioning like new. Overall, the right holster is not just an accessory—it’s a necessary part of responsible firearm ownership.
My Buying Guides on Taurus Model 85 Holster
When I first started looking for a holster for my Taurus Model 85, I quickly realized there are a lot of options out there. To help you avoid the overwhelm, I’m sharing my personal tips and what I learned during my search. Here’s what I considered essential when choosing the perfect holster.
1. Understanding Your Taurus Model 85
Before diving into holsters, I made sure to know the exact specifications of my Taurus Model 85. It’s a compact revolver, so I needed a holster that fits snugly without being too bulky. Knowing the barrel length and grip size helped me narrow down my choices.
2. Types of Holsters That Work Best
I found that certain styles suited the Taurus Model 85 better than others:
- Inside the Waistband (IWB): Great for concealed carry and comfort. It keeps the gun close to my body.
- Outside the Waistband (OWB): Easier to draw but less concealable. Good for range days or open carry.
- Pocket Holsters: Since the Taurus Model 85 is compact, a pocket holster is a solid option for quick access and concealment.
- Ankle Holsters: Less common for this revolver but an option if you want an alternative carry spot.
3. Material Matters
I had to decide between leather, Kydex, and nylon. Each has pros and cons:
- Leather: Classic look, comfortable, but can be bulky and require break-in.
- Kydex: Lightweight, durable, and offers great retention, but can be less comfortable initially.
- Nylon: Affordable and flexible but may lack the retention and durability of the other materials.
For my Taurus Model 85, I preferred a Kydex holster because it held the revolver firmly and was easy to maintain.
4. Retention and Security
I wanted a holster that would keep my Taurus Model 85 secure but still allow a smooth draw. Adjustable retention screws or molded fit are key features I looked for. I avoided holsters with complicated retention mechanisms since I wanted something quick and reliable.
5. Comfort and Concealability
Since I carry daily, comfort was a top priority. I tested holsters that had smooth edges and breathable backing. The holster should also sit comfortably without printing (showing the gun’s outline) through my clothing. I found IWB holsters with sweat guards worked best for this.
6. Ease of Draw and Reholstering
A holster is useless if it slows you down. I practiced drawing and reholstering with several holsters. The ideal one allowed a fluid motion without binding or snagging. For my Taurus Model 85, I preferred holsters with a slight flare at the opening for easier reholstering.
7. Price and Brand Reputation
I balanced cost with quality. Some well-known brands offer holsters specifically designed for the Taurus Model 85, which gives me confidence in fit and durability. I avoided very cheap holsters that felt flimsy or poorly made.
8. Additional Features
Some holsters come with extra features like adjustable cant (angle), multi-position clips, or sweat guards. I found that these small details can greatly improve comfort and usability, so I looked for holsters that offered some customization.
9. Reviews and Recommendations
Before finalizing my choice, I read user reviews and watched videos from other Taurus Model 85 owners. Real-world feedback helped me avoid common pitfalls and discover hidden gems.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right holster for my Taurus Model 85 was about balancing fit, comfort, retention, and concealability. By focusing on these factors and testing options whenever possible, I found a holster that fits my lifestyle perfectly. I hope my guide helps you find the ideal holster that keeps your Taurus Model 85 secure and accessible.
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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