I also have a LCR in .38. The Ruger has correspondingly higher quality to go with the higher price of an additional $ 250 or so, and I would not argue that the Taurus has equivalent fit and finish to the Ruger. Nor does the Taurus have as good a trigger as the LCR, which is quite possibly amongst the best revolver triggers I have ever used in my 37 years of owning revolvers. In terms of functionality, I am of the opinion that the Taurus is the equal of the Ruger, and I prefer the front sight and the boot grip of the Taurus over the Ruger. I own more Ruger revolvers and S&W pistols than any other brand, and I also own Taurus revolvers and pistols since they offer things I cannot find elsewhere. Price is not a major consideration for me since I can pretty much afford to buy whatever I want. I wish that Taurus would bring back the titanium revolvers, since I would like to buy a few more of those. The Protector Polys are going to be in my 'tool guns' group, where functionality and ruggedness are my primary concerns.
I am also still holding my breath for Ruger to bring out a LCRx in .357 with a 3 inch barrel, or for Taurus to do the equivalent. I can promise that will become my new trail gun for outdoor activities.