Determining the manufacture date of your Taurus Model 85 revolver can be a rewarding endeavor for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Knowing the age of your firearm can provide valuable context, helping you understand its history and potentially influencing its value. However, Taurus doesn't explicitly stamp the manufacturing date on their revolvers, making the process a bit of a detective story. This guide will walk you through the methods used to pinpoint the year your Taurus Model 85 was made.
Understanding Taurus Serial Numbers and Their Role in Dating
The key to unlocking your Taurus Model 85's manufacture date lies within its serial number. This unique identifier, usually found on the right side of the frame, is a crucial piece of information. While Taurus doesn't publicly release a comprehensive serial number database correlating numbers to dates, certain patterns and techniques can help narrow down the timeframe.
Dissecting the Serial Number: What It Can Tell You
Taurus serial numbers often incorporate a combination of letters and numbers. The specific format can vary depending on the year of manufacture. While a precise year cannot be directly extracted from the number itself, observing the number's structure, the presence of letters, or the overall number range can be used in conjunction with other methods to estimate the manufacturing date. For example, earlier Model 85s may have significantly different serial number patterns compared to those produced more recently.
Using Online Resources and Forums: A Collaborative Approach
Many online forums and communities dedicated to Taurus firearms offer a valuable resource for dating. Experienced collectors and owners often share their knowledge and assist others in deciphering serial numbers based on observed patterns and known examples. By posting a high-quality image of your Taurus Model 85's serial number (obscuring any personally identifying information, of course), you can tap into this collective knowledge and receive helpful feedback.
Caution: Always be wary of information sourced from unofficial channels. Verify information from multiple sources before drawing firm conclusions.
Beyond Serial Numbers: Additional Clues for Dating Your Taurus Model 85
While the serial number offers the most reliable starting point, other factors can provide supporting evidence in your quest to date your Taurus Model 85:
Inspecting the Markings and Features: Subtle Indicators
- Proof Marks: Examine the gun carefully for any proof or inspection marks. These can often indicate the year of production, though they may not be explicitly stated.
- Minor Design Changes: Taurus, like other manufacturers, occasionally made minor design adjustments to their firearms over the years. These subtle changes, such as variations in the grip, sights, or finish, can provide additional clues. Comparing your Model 85 to images of different production years online can prove useful.
- Box and Paperwork: If you still possess the original box, manual, and warranty information that came with your Taurus Model 85, these materials often contain crucial clues about the year of manufacture.
Consulting with Experts: The Professional Touch
If you're struggling to determine the manufacture date, consider contacting a professional firearms appraiser or a Taurus expert. They possess extensive knowledge and resources, making them well-equipped to assist you. Be prepared to provide high-quality images of your revolver, including its serial number and any other pertinent markings.
Case Study: Dating a Taurus Model 85 Through Combined Evidence
Let's examine a hypothetical scenario. Imagine we have a Taurus Model 85 with the serial number "B123456." Through online forum research, we find that serial numbers beginning with "B" were typically assigned between 1995 and 1998. We then carefully examine the revolver, noticing a specific type of grip that, through online comparisons, is associated with models produced in 1997. Finally, we find an old receipt with a purchase date in 1997. Combining these three sources, we can confidently conclude the Taurus Model 85 was likely manufactured in 1997.
Conclusion: Persistence Pays Off
Dating a Taurus Model 85 may require some detective work, but with persistence and careful investigation, you can significantly narrow down—and potentially pinpoint— its manufacture date. By utilizing the methods outlined in this guide and seeking assistance when needed, you can add another layer of understanding and appreciation to your Taurus Model 85. Remember that accuracy is key, and always cross-reference information from several sources.