They have an ultralite version of the Judge out now that weighs FAR less than it's predecessor...weight really isn't an issue with the new ultralite 3" version, which is designed for protection during car jacking, and of course close encounters. Here's the review of the "newer" version of the Judge.
The Judge Loses Weight: Taurus Ultra-Lite .45 Colt/.410 Shotshell Revolver
The Judge Ultra-Lite weighs 12.9 ounces less than the all-steel Judge that the above person is talking about. So yeah, it dropped some serious weight.
I'm still thinking about it, since it is a fantastic fire-arm for almost any general situation. As most know, MOST "gun encounters" happen with 10 feet. The judge would be incredibly effective, and even if your aim is shakey with a shot-shell you're still going to more than likely pepper the person, aka higher chance of hitting them than with your standard 9mm, 45, .40 and so forth. It seems to also be a great out door gun (camping) since the shotshell makes it easy to dispatch of snakes, and other animals\reptiles\whatever.
Here's a short sum:
Of the Judge series of revolvers from Taurus, I think that this three-inch barreled Ultra-Lite is the best yet. It weighs less than most small-framed .22 revolvers, yet packs a lot more punch. For any one specific task, I can't think of another gun that can do the job better than the Judge. It is not a target-grade paper puncher. It is not the perfect big game hunting sidearm. It is not the best upland bird hunting shotgun. However, it fills a niche that needs filling, as a good, lightweight, versatile trail gun, especially in snake country. For a wilderness camper, it offers good versatility for filling the pot with meat. Also, as a car gun, it just might be as good of an anti-carjacker gun as you can get. Firing a load of shot at contact range, it has the power to do the job when pinpoint accuracy is not possible. If you hit your attacker in the face, he will leave you alone, and if you miss, you will not kill a bystander thirty yards away. For close range social work, defense against large animals, and to dispatch poisonous snakes, the Ultra-Lite Judge can fill the bill.
I think it's nifty how your first 2 rounds can be shot shell and the rest .45 or whatever you prefer. Mix and match.