Hey everyone, this is Shooting Illustrated bringing you another episode of “I Carry.” In today’s feature, we’re looking at the new Taurus model 817 revolver and some related gear. Let’s take a closer look at this setup:
Firearm: Taurus 817 revolver (MSRP: $648.99)
Given the continuing popularity of revolvers, it’s no big surprise that Taurus, long known for its revolver line given the connection with Smith & Wesson in Brazil, would be one of the innovators. The seven-shot Model 817 in .38 Special is the latest wheelgun to come from the company, with exposed hammer, rubber grip and shrouded ejector rod prominent. The 2-inch barrel and medium frame indicate that this is a revolver intended for concealed carry, which is why we’ve selected it for today’s kit.
With a seven-round capacity and unloaded weight of 30.3 ounces, at first blush it might seem a bit incongruous of a choice for a concealed-carry handgun. Modern double-stack micro-9mm pistols offer greater capacity at significantly lower weight, that’s true; however, the extra heft of the 817 pays big dividends on the range—shooting the 817 with standard .38 Special ammo is not unduly punishing at all. Add in that revolvers in general are more forgiving with different ammunition types as well as the simplicity of operation, and it’s not hard to make a decent case for the 817.
Sizewise, it’s a great choice for concealed carry: 2-inch barrel, 8-inch overall length, 4.8-inch height and 1.5-inch width make it slightly larger than a compact-size semi-auto but smaller than a full-size. Carried inside-the-waistband it’s easy to conceal with a polo shirt or even a T-shirt, but be aware that the rubber grip may catch somewhat—but then again, that’s another advantage to the revolver, as grips (stocks for the purists) can be changed out with literally the turn of a screw. A variety of options are available in wood and/or rubber to alter the grip of the 817 however you’d prefer.
If you’re a fan of the revolver, particularly of the small- or medium-frame revolver carried for self-defense, the 817 is definitely worth a look. With two extra rounds over the standard carry revolver capacity, more real estate on the grip when shooting and extra heft for recoil mitigation, it’s a smallish revolver that’s surprisingly easy to carry and shoot. Is that enough to overcome its perceived deficiencies in capacity compared to modern small semi-autos, or to justify the extra weight? That’s up to the individual. It is, however, an excellent option for wheelgun lovers everywhere.
Holster: Falco Holsters AX-91 (MSRP: $299.95)
We’ve definitely gone non-traditional with the holster choice for today’s kit with the Falco Holsters AX-91 carbon-fiber inside-the-waistband holster. The AX-91 offers the considerable strength of carbon fiber while keeping weight to a minimum, which is important in balancing the overall weight of the concealed-carry rig. The slightly heavier revolver is offset by the lighter holster, all with the same strength and rigidity needed for safe concealed carry.
Constructed of carbon fiber, the AX-91 is a sandwich-style holster, with two molded carbon-fiber sheets bolted together. All edges are rounded for comfortable carry, with two screws ahead of the trigger guard that serve to adjust retention. A single polymer clip attaches the holster to the belt, and can be ordered for 1.5- or 1.75-inch belts. AX-91 holsters are available for both right- and left-handed shooters for a variety of pistols and revolvers.
Accessory: Normandy Knives D’Gado (MSRP: $160)
Rounding out today’s kit is an automatic, out-the-front knife from a new-to-us company, Normandy Knives, out of Utah. The D’Gado is one of the company’s best-selling knives, with a 3.75-inch, drop-point blade available either in D2- or S35VN steel, which is what the knife we have here sports. There’s a metal pocket clip and a blue operating switch that both opens and closes the blade, with matching blue hardware holding the sides of the aluminum scales together. It’s a sleek, attractive knife that works really well.
The design is what drew me to choose this knife for today’s kit. It is one of the slimmest designs I’ve seen, and I have to marvel at how well the D’Gado is put together. It takes up minimal pocket space thanks to the slim profile, while offering everything you want in an everyday knife. Again, as always, check state and local laws regarding the ownership and carrying of automatic knives, as there still are some locations that prohibit these types. Lastly, for those who follow Normandy Knives on various social media platforms, be assured that the D’Gado is most definitely not a spoon.
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