Taurus, a name synonymous with innovation and value in the firearms industry, has once again made waves with its latest offeringโthe Taurus Expedition Rifle. Built to cater to hunters, long-range shooters, and enthusiasts who demand precision, durability, and reliability, the Taurus Expedition Rifle aims to be a go-to option for those who take their outdoor adventures seriously. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the details of this rifle, exploring its features, performance, and what sets it apart in a crowded market.
Overview of the Taurus Expedition Rifle
The Taurus Expedition Rifle is designed with the outdoorsman in mind, offering a versatile platform that can handle a wide range of hunting and shooting scenarios. Chambered in .308 Winchester, a popular caliber for hunting medium to large game, the Expedition Rifle combines rugged construction with high-end features, making it a competitive option in the long-range hunting rifle category.
Taurus is a renowned firearms manufacturer and has engineered this rifle with attention to detail, focusing on delivering a product that not only performs well in the field but also offers the shooter a high degree of customization and comfort.
The Expedition is a bolt-action rifle, a choice that aligns with its intended use as a hunting and precision shooting tool. With an adjustable stock, a fluted barrel, and a host of other features, the Taurus Expedition Rifle is designed to meet the needs of serious shooters.
Barrel and Action
One of the standout features of the Taurus Expedition Rifle is its barrel. The rifle comes equipped with a 22-inch fluted barrel made from stainless steel. The fluting not only adds a distinctive aesthetic appeal but also serves a practical purpose by reducing the weight of the barrel and increasing its surface area, which aids in heat dissipation. This is particularly important during extended shooting sessions, where barrel temperature can affect accuracy.
The barrel is threaded at the muzzle, allowing for the attachment of a suppressor or muzzle brake. This adds versatility to the rifle, enabling shooters to customize their setup based on their specific needs. The threading is precise, ensuring that any muzzle device attached will align perfectly with the bore, minimizing the risk of accuracy loss.
The Taurus Expedition Rifle features a Mauser-style bolt action, a time-tested design known for its reliability and strength. The bolt operates smoothly, with a short throw that allows for quick follow-up shots. The Mauser-style action is favored by many hunters and precision shooters for its controlled-round feed, which ensures that each round is guided smoothly from the magazine into the chamber, reducing the likelihood of jams or misfeeds.
Stock and Ergonomics
The stock of the Taurus Expedition Rifle is designed with ergonomics and user comfort in mind. It is adjustable for both length of pull and cheek height, allowing shooters to customize the fit of the rifle to their body type and shooting style. This is a critical feature for maintaining accuracy, as a properly fitted rifle reduces shooter fatigue and improves consistency in shot placement.
The stock is made from a durable synthetic material, which is both lightweight and resistant to the elements. This makes the rifle well-suited for use in harsh outdoor conditions, where traditional wood stocks might warp or swell due to moisture. The synthetic stock also features a textured surface, providing a secure grip even in wet or slippery conditions.
Taurus has also included a soft rubber recoil pad at the butt of the stock, which helps to absorb the recoil generated by the .308 Winchester cartridge. This makes the rifle more comfortable to shoot, especially during long sessions at the range or when taking multiple shots in quick succession while hunting.
Trigger and Safety
A rifleโs trigger is a critical component that can make or break its performance, and Taurus has given careful consideration to this aspect of the Expedition Rifle. The rifle is equipped with an adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger pull to their preference.
Out of the box, the trigger is set to a pull weight of 4lbs that is suitable for most hunting and long-range shooting applications, but the ability to adjust it offers a level of customization that many shooters will appreciate.
The trigger itself is crisp and breaks cleanly, with minimal overtravel. This contributes to the rifle’s overall accuracy, as a good trigger allows the shooter to break the shot precisely when they intend to, without disturbing the rifle’s alignment.
The Taurus Expedition Rifle also features a three-position safety. This allows the shooter to lock the bolt and trigger, unlock the bolt while keeping the trigger locked (for safe unloading), or fully unlock both the bolt and trigger for firing. This three-position safety is a popular feature in bolt-action rifles, offering an extra layer of safety while handling the firearm.
Accuracy and Performance
When it comes to accuracy, the Taurus Expedition Rifle delivers on its promises. The combination of a free-floating fluted barrel, a well-designed stock, and a crisp trigger results in a rifle that is capable of impressive precision. In testing, the rifle consistently produced sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups at 100 yards, which is a benchmark for accuracy in long-range shooting.
The .308 Winchester chambering offers a good balance between power and recoil, making it a versatile choice for hunting a variety of game species, from deer to elk. The rifleโs accuracy is further enhanced by its stable platform and the attention to detail in its construction. Whether shooting from a bench rest, prone position, or a standing position with shooting sticks, the Taurus Expedition Rifle performed consistently well.
One of the key factors contributing to the rifleโs accuracy is its Mauser-style bolt action, which ensures smooth and reliable feeding of each round. This allows the shooter to focus on their aim and trigger pull without worrying about potential feeding issues that could disrupt the shot.
Durability and Build Quality
Taurus has built a reputation for producing firearms that offer good value for money, and the Expedition Rifle is no exception. The rifle is constructed with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The stainless steel barrel is resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for use in wet or humid environments, while the synthetic stock is impervious to the effects of temperature and moisture.
The overall build quality of the Taurus Expedition Rifle is impressive. The fit and finish of the components are excellent, with no noticeable gaps or rough edges. The action cycles smoothly, the trigger is crisp, and the rifle feels solid in the hands. These are all indicators of a well-made firearm that is built to last.
Optics and Accessories
The Taurus Expedition Rifle comes with a Picatinny rail mounted on the receiver, providing a sturdy platform for mounting optics. This is a welcome feature, as it allows shooters to easily install a scope of their choice without the need for additional hardware or gunsmithing.
The rifleโs versatility is further enhanced by its threaded barrel, which allows for the attachment of a suppressor or muzzle brake. This makes the Expedition Rifle a flexible platform that can be adapted to different shooting scenarios, whether itโs hunting, target shooting, or tactical applications.
Final Thoughts: Is the Taurus Expedition Rifle Worth It?
The Taurus Expedition Rifle offers a compelling package for hunters and long-range shooters who are looking for a reliable, accurate, and versatile firearm. Its combination of a fluted stainless steel barrel, Mauser-style bolt action, adjustable stock, and crisp trigger makes it a strong contender in its category.
The rifleโs accuracy and performance are top-notch, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced shooters. Whether youโre hunting in the backcountry or spending a day at the range, the Taurus Expedition Rifle delivers the precision and reliability you need to succeed.
In terms of value for money, the Taurus Expedition Rifle stands out as a well-built firearm that offers a lot of features at a competitive price point. Its durability and build quality ensure that it will be a reliable companion for many years to come.
Overall, the Taurus Expedition Rifle is a well-rounded firearm that excels in its intended role. Itโs a rifle thatโs built to perform, and for those who demand quality and reliability in the field, itโs certainly worth considering.
