People who have had problems with Taurus complain loudly on the internet. People who have good experiences tend to just stay out of the fight.
When someone has a problem with a Smith or Ruger and complains on the internet, everyone bashes them. Huh.
I own two Taurus revolveds, a Model 85 38spl and a Model 627 41mag Tracker Titanium. Both guns are tight, accurate, and reliable. The only work I needed to do with a Wolf spring kit on the 85.
My brother-in-law bought an 85 at the same time and it had a bur he had to have filed off to time properly. Of course I have a Smith that had a flaw in the hand creating the same problem.
Do not let Taurus put you off, I would not buy their semis but their revolvers have done well by me. Test it before you buy as you should any gun.
Regarding the Judge, I have no doubt it is fun and a buddy just got one last week so I'll soon find out. However for self-defense you want stopping power and nothing coming out of a 410 shotshell has it. If you want to shoot 45LC there are better guns to do that in. If you want it for the fun factor go for it. If you are specifically looking for a carry gun there are better options.