Taurus Judge 45/410

erikpolcrack

I need some help from experienced posters to understand the whole concept of the Judge as a self-defense weapon. I've had an H&R 45/410 survival gun for years and think it's great, so I could sure understand the Judge as a kit gun, but I can't understand why you'd want a Judge rather than a similar-sized 45 Colt-only revolver. It would be handier or could have a longer barrel for the same size. There are some real stomper 45 loads out there and I have trouble seeing why you'd want to defend yourself with a 410 shell instead.

Oakie

For home defense I can see it. A shot shell will cover more area then a single projectile. Easier for home defense when you are startled awake and you don't have to focus as well. JMHO. Oakie

toolmaniam

Taurus Judge is a gimmick IMHO. .45 acp for carry if you want a .45 caliber and 12 gauge with buckshot for home defense hands down.

realspeed

agreed, the judge was nothing new....just a gimmik that worked lol, it was a redesign of an old concept. remember that God awful looking Thunder 5?

fordsix

410 can;t carry enough bird shot ,,i have the public defender in 2" great shooter with buckshot other wise i do not hold much for the longer barreled judges

dakotashooter2

The idea seemed to be that 1) a multi projectile round would make it easier to hit the target and 2) less chance of projectiles passing through walls.

While #2 is legitimate, due to the short range likely #1 doesn't give a significant advantage. At across the room ranges the spread of a 3 or 4 ball round is several inches at most. If you miss a target at that range with a standard handgun round you will likely get a miss or a non vital hit with a multi ball load at that same range.

dakotashooter2

The idea seemed to be that 1) a multi projectile round would make it easier to hit the target and 2) less chance of projectiles passing through walls.

While #2 is legitimate, due to the short range likely #1 doesn't give a significant advantage. At across the room ranges the spread of a 3 or 4 ball round is several inches at most. If you miss a target at that range with a standard handgun round you will likely get a miss or a non vital hit with a multi ball load at that same range.

chiefr

I guess a Judge would be OK if someone gave you one. I would never use one for self defense. The 45s tend to key-hole.

TooBig

Better than nothing and the people I know rotate the rounds shotgun and then the 45 long colt OUCH