The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - What’s wrong with the finish of this Taurus 85UL?

Powderman · September 29, 2012, 10:06 PM

There are a number of areas of concern there.

Starting with picture #1:

a. The cylinder latch screw is messed up. This means that an improper screwdriver was used, and the slot suffered damage as a result. A hallmark of sloppy work.

b. (POTENTIAL MAJOR PROBLEM) Picture #2: Note the dissimilar finish on the metal of the frame and the cylinder. This is an indication that the cylinder might, at some point, have been replaced.

c. (All pictures) There is extensive pitting on that frame. This appears to have been cleaned up, then painted over or plated.

d. Picture #3: Take a look at the sideplate. You'll notice that it appears to be mismatched with the frame--there is a visual difference in the fit of the sideplate to the frame. This is possibly a replacement sideplate.

e. Picture #4: Note the discoloration. This is indication of a serious problem with corrosion.

Finally, note the blurring of the rollmarks and stamps. This means that some metal refinishing was done with little regard for the outward finish.

Personally, I would avoid this revolver like the plague. There are too many things visibly wrong with it--who knows what the inside looks like?

Don't buy it.

September 29, 2012, 10:06 PM	#10
Powderman Senior Member Join Date: September 7, 2001 Location: Washington State Posts: 2,166	There are a number of areas of concern there. Starting with picture #1: a. The cylinder latch screw is messed up. This means that an improper screwdriver was used, and the slot suffered damage as a result. A hallmark of sloppy work. b. (POTENTIAL MAJOR PROBLEM) Picture #2: Note the dissimilar finish on the metal of the frame and the cylinder. This is an indication that the cylinder might, at some point, have been replaced. c. (All pictures) There is extensive pitting on that frame. This appears to have been cleaned up, then painted over or plated. d. Picture #3: Take a look at the sideplate. You'll notice that it appears to be mismatched with the frame--there is a visual difference in the fit of the sideplate to the frame. This is possibly a replacement sideplate. e. Picture #4: Note the discoloration. This is indication of a serious problem with corrosion. Finally, note the blurring of the rollmarks and stamps. This means that some metal refinishing was done with little regard for the outward finish. Personally, I would avoid this revolver like the plague. There are too many things visibly wrong with it--who knows what the inside looks like? Don't buy it. __________________ Hiding in plain sight...