A few years ago Taurus tried to update their image, did some cosmetic changes to some of their guns and from what I heard was trying to up their quality control. With that being said I bought a used black 85 from a friend who could not shoot it verry well due to his vision problems, I haven't shot it yet but it function checks good so far, we will see come range time if this gun is better than the others I had. I'm not a big fan of Taurus firearms due to having to use their warranty on all 4 of their guns I use to own but I guess we will see. If I had my rathers I would lean towards a S&W or Ruger. Good luck with your decision.