Taurus firearms occupy a unique position in the American gun market, delivering functional capability at price points that make firearm ownership accessible to budget-conscious shooters. From the award-winning TX22 that earned Guns & Ammo's Handgun of the Year to the legendary PT92 with genuine Beretta heritage, Taurus offers options spanning pocket pistols to big-bore hunting revolvers.
This comprehensive guide examines 22 Taurus firearms across their product lineup, providing honest assessments of each platform's strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases.
Whether you're a first-time buyer seeking affordable home defense, a collector exploring discontinued models, or an enthusiast evaluating the brand's current offerings, this guide delivers the information you need.
Understanding Taurus: Brand Context for Informed Decisions
Before exploring individual models, understanding Taurus's position in the market helps frame expectations appropriately.
The Value Proposition
Taurus firearms typically cost 30-50% less than comparable Smith & Wesson, Ruger, or SIG Sauer products.
This pricing enables firearm ownership for budget-conscious buyers but comes with trade-offs in fit, finish, and occasionally quality control consistency. Many Taurus owners report excellent experiences; others encounter issues requiring warranty service.
The Safety Settlement History
Several discontinued Taurus models (PT111, PT140, PT145, and related Millennium-series pistols) were covered by a class-action safety settlement addressing drop-fire and false-safety concerns.
Understanding which models were affected helps collectors and used-gun buyers make informed decisions.
Current Production vs. Discontinued Models
Taurus actively produces many excellent firearms while others exist only on the used market. This guide clearly identifies production status for each model.
Taurus Striker-Fired Pistols: Modern Concealed Carry Options
1. Taurus G3C — The Budget CCW Benchmark
Status: Current Production | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 12+1 | Weight: ~22 oz
The Taurus G3C represents Taurus's most successful modern pistol—a compact striker-fired 9mm that competes directly with the Glock 19 at roughly half the price. With 12+1 capacity, steel slide serrations, and genuine concealed carry dimensions, the G3C has earned widespread acceptance even among shooters typically skeptical of Taurus.
Carry Rating: ★★★★☆ — Excellent for IWB carry with proper holster selection. The slim profile and manageable weight make all-day carry realistic.
Best For: First-time gun owners, budget-conscious concealed carriers, home defenders seeking affordable capability.
Key Insight: The G3C evolved from the G2C, which evolved from the PT111 G2—each generation addressing previous concerns. The current platform reflects years of refinement.
2. Taurus G2S — Single-Stack Simplicity
Status: Current Production | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 7+1 | Weight: ~22 oz
The Taurus G2S delivers single-stack slimness for shooters prioritizing maximum concealability over capacity. At approximately 1.0 inch wide, the G2S disappears under light clothing where double-stack pistols print.
Carry Rating: ★★★★★ — Outstanding concealability. The single-stack profile enables deep concealment in summer clothing, pocket carry in larger pockets, and comfortable appendix carry.
Best For: Slim-profile CCW seekers, shooters with smaller hands, those prioritizing concealability over capacity.
Key Insight: The capacity trade-off (7+1 vs 12+1 in the G3C) buys approximately 0.2 inches of reduced width—meaningful for dedicated concealed carriers.
3. Taurus GX4 — Micro-Compact Contender
Status: Current Production | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 11+1 | Weight: ~18.5 oz
The Taurus GX4 directly challenges the SIG P365 and Springfield Hellcat in the micro-compact segment—delivering 11+1 capacity in a package measuring approximately 1.0 inch wide and weighing under 19 ounces at dramatically lower pricing.
Carry Rating: ★★★★★ — Exceptional. The GX4 enables high-capacity carry in a package previously associated with single-stack dimensions.
Best For: Concealed carriers wanting P365-class capability at budget pricing, shooters upgrading from pocket .380s.
Key Insight: The GX4 T.O.R.O. variant adds optics-ready capability, enabling red dot sights on a micro-compact platform—a configuration previously requiring premium pricing.
Taurus DA/SA Hammer-Fired Pistols: Traditional Operation
4. Taurus PT92 — The Beretta-Heritage Flagship
Status: Current Production | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 17+1 | Weight: ~34 oz
The Taurus PT92 stands apart from all other Taurus pistols—Taurus acquired Beretta's Brazilian manufacturing facility "lock, stock, and barrel" in 1980, inheriting the machinery, tooling, and expertise to produce genuine Beretta 92-pattern pistols. The PT92's frame-mounted ambidextrous safety/decocker is often preferred over Beretta's slide-mounted design.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Full-size duty pistol dimensions challenge concealment. Viable for open carry, duty use, or jacket concealment.
Best For: Beretta 92 enthusiasts seeking value, military/police veterans comfortable with the platform, home defenders wanting proven reliability.
Key Insight: The PT92 represents Taurus's most consistently praised firearm—decades of production with genuine Beretta heritage create reliability that transcends typical Taurus skepticism.
5. Taurus PT99 — Adjustable-Sight Precision (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued (~2019-2020) | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 17+1 | Weight: ~34 oz
The PT99 was the adjustable-sight variant of the PT92, featuring micrometer-adjustable rear sight for precise windage and elevation correction. Mechanically identical to the PT92, it served shooters requiring precision sight adjustment.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Same full-size limitations as PT92.
Best For: Collectors, precision-oriented shooters, those wanting adjustable sights on the Beretta platform.
Key Insight: Discontinued for product line simplification rather than defects. Used examples command modest premiums. Parts sourcing for the adjustable sight mechanism presents increasing challenges.
6. Taurus TH9 — The PT809 Successor
Status: Current Production | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 17+1 | Weight: ~28.2 oz
The Taurus TH9 replaced the discontinued PT809/840 series, offering DA/SA operation with decocker capability at prices typically under $300. The polymer frame with steel slide creates a lighter package than the all-steel PT92.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Full-size dimensions challenge concealment. The TH9C compact variant improves concealment potential.
Best For: DA/SA enthusiasts on strict budgets, shooters wanting second-strike capability, home defenders preferring hammer-fired operation.
Key Insight: The "mushy" trigger is the most common complaint—functional but lacking the refinement of premium DA/SA pistols. The second-strike capability provides backup for primer failures.
7. Taurus PT809 — Premium Features at Budget Prices (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued (~2017) | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 17+1 | Weight: ~28-30 oz
The Taurus PT809 delivered genuine Novak 3-dot sights, fully ambidextrous controls, and an "incredibly short reset" at budget pricing. Reviewers compared its feel to a "polymer SIG P226."
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Full-size duty dimensions.
Best For: Collectors seeking discontinued Taurus models, those finding excellent used examples.
Key Insight: Discontinued amid drop-safety concerns that also affected the PT840. The TH-series replaced this platform with improved safety mechanisms.
8. Taurus PT840 — The .40 S&W Variant (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued (~2017) | Caliber: .40 S&W | Capacity: 15+1 | Weight: ~29.6 oz
The PT840 offered the PT809 platform in .40 S&W chambering for those wanting more power. It shared the same features and ultimately the same fate—discontinuation amid safety concerns.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Full-size dimensions with .40 S&W recoil considerations.
Best For: .40 S&W enthusiasts finding vetted used examples, collectors of discontinued Taurus models.
Key Insight: Forum discussions document "not drop safe" claims. Careful vetting of any used example is essential.
9. Taurus PT101 — The .40 S&W Beretta Pattern (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued | Caliber: .40 S&W | Capacity: 11+1 | Weight: ~34 oz
The PT101 was the .40 S&W variant of the PT100 series—Taurus's Beretta-pattern pistol in a larger caliber. It shared the PT92/99's Beretta heritage and frame-mounted safety design.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Heavy full-size dimensions.
Best For: Collectors, .40 S&W enthusiasts appreciating Beretta-pattern ergonomics.
Key Insight: Discontinued as .40 S&W demand declined. Used examples offer genuine Beretta-pattern handling in a caliber some agencies still issue.
Taurus Millennium-Series Pistols: Safety Settlement Context
These models were covered by a class-action safety settlement. Used-market buyers should understand this history.
10. Taurus PT111 — The G2C Predecessor (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 12+1 | Weight: ~22 oz
The PT111 spawned Taurus's most successful modern pistol line. Two distinct generations existed: the original Millennium (DAO, covered by safety settlement) and the G2 generation (striker-fired, improved). The G2 generation demonstrated near-P365/Hellcat performance at significantly lower pricing.
Carry Rating: ★★★★☆ — Compact dimensions suited concealed carry well.
Best For: Understanding Taurus's evolution; the G2C/G3C are the modern successors for actual purchase.
Key Insight: All PT111-branded pistols are discontinued. The G2C and G3C represent the platform's current evolution with improved safety mechanisms.
11. Taurus PT140 — Compact .40 S&W (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued | Caliber: .40 S&W | Capacity: 10+1 | Weight: ~18.7 oz
The PT140 offered compact .40 S&W in the Millennium platform—impressive power in a lightweight package. It was covered by the class-action safety settlement addressing drop-fire and false-safety issues.
Carry Rating: ★★★☆☆ — Compact dimensions enabled carry, but .40 S&W recoil in the light frame proved snappy.
Best For: Historical reference only. Modern alternatives like the G3C in 9mm offer better overall packages.
Key Insight: The safety settlement effectively functioned as a recall of nearly one million pistols. Used examples require careful vetting and understanding of settlement history.
12. Taurus PT145 — Compact .45 ACP (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued | Caliber: .45 ACP | Capacity: 10+1 | Weight: ~22.2 oz
The PT145 delivered remarkably compact .45 ACP capability—smaller than a Glock 23 while chambering the larger cartridge. It was covered by the same safety settlement as other Millennium-series pistols.
Carry Rating: ★★★☆☆ — Compact dimensions for .45 ACP, but settlement history demands caution.
Best For: Collectors understanding the platform's complicated history.
Key Insight: Customer service delays during settlement repairs (year-long waits documented) frustrated many owners. The platform represents historical curiosity rather than recommended purchase.
Taurus Pocket Pistols: Deep Concealment Options
13. Taurus PT22 — Tip-Up Barrel Accessibility (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued (replaced by 22TUC) | Caliber: .22 LR | Capacity: 8+1 | Weight: ~11.3 oz (Poly)
The PT22's tip-up barrel eliminated the need to rack a stiff slide—ideal for shooters with limited hand strength, arthritis, or those simply wanting easier chamber loading. The Beretta-inspired design made .22 LR pocket carry accessible.
Carry Rating: ★★★★★ — Exceptional pocket carry dimensions. The lightweight polymer version disappeared in pockets.
Best For: Shooters with hand strength limitations, backup gun carriers, those wanting .22 LR simplicity.
Key Insight: No safety settlement involvement—discontinuation reflected product refresh to the 22TUC. The tip-up barrel remains available in current Taurus offerings.
14. Taurus PT738 TCP — The Pocket .380 (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued | Caliber: .380 ACP | Capacity: 6+1 | Weight: ~10.2 oz
The PT738 TCP delivered locked-breech operation unusual for pocket .380s, softening recoil compared to blowback competitors. The smooth ~4.8 lb DAO trigger earned praise as "unusually good for pocket .380." Some owners documented 10,000+ rounds through their TCPs.
Carry Rating: ★★★★★ — Purpose-built pocket pistol. Disappears in jeans pockets.
Best For: Deep concealment, backup gun duty, those preferring .380 ACP simplicity.
Key Insight: Polarized reliability—some call it "Taurus's best gun" while others report issues. Individual examples vary. The Spectrum replaced it (also discontinued), leaving the segment to the G42-class competitors.
15. Taurus PT709 Slim — The Ultra-Thin 9mm (Discontinued)
Status: Discontinued | Caliber: 9mm | Capacity: 7+1 | Weight: ~19 oz
The PT709 Slim achieved 1.0-inch width before micro-compacts redefined the segment. The fully adjustable rear sight distinguished it from competitors. Sample-dependent reliability characterized the platform—some excellent, others problematic.
Carry Rating: ★★★★☆ — Extreme slimness enabled excellent concealment.
Best For: Historical reference. The G2S and GX4 represent superior modern alternatives.
Key Insight: Discontinued not for recall but because the double-stack G2C offered 12+1 in similar dimensions—making the single-stack less compelling.
Taurus Rimfire Pistols: Training and Recreation
16. Taurus TX22 — Guns & Ammo Handgun of the Year
Status: Current Production | Caliber: .22 LR | Capacity: 16+1 | Weight: ~17.3 oz
The Taurus TX22 disrupted the rimfire market by delivering 16+1 capacity, suppressor-ready threaded barrel, and competition-ready features at $300-$500 pricing—earning Guns & Ammo's Handgun of the Year in 2019. The platform has evolved through Gen 2 updates improving the recoil system and trigger.
Carry Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ — Not intended for defensive carry. Training and recreation focus.
Best For: Training, plinking, competition (rimfire divisions), suppressed shooting enthusiasts.
Key Insight: The TX22's success demonstrates Taurus can produce genuinely excellent firearms. Reliability improves dramatically with quality ammunition (CCI recommended) and proper break-in (200-300 rounds).
Taurus Big-Bore Revolvers: Hunting and Field Defense
17. Taurus Raging Hunter — The Big-Bore Value Leader
Status: Current Production | Calibers: .357 Mag through .500 S&W Mag | Capacity: 5-7 rounds | Weight: 49-71+ oz
The Taurus Raging Hunter delivers big-bore hunting capability at prices typically under $1,000—dramatically less than comparable Smith & Wesson or Ruger options. The factory-ported barrel effectively manages recoil from cartridges like .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, and .460 S&W Magnum. Picatinny rails enable optics mounting for precision hunting shots.
Carry Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ — Field carry in chest rigs or belt holsters only. Not for concealment.
Best For: Handgun hunters, backcountry defense, big-bore enthusiasts seeking value.
Key Insight: Active production continues with caliber expansions (.350 Legend, .500 S&W recently added), demonstrating Taurus's commitment. The platform "outperforms expectations" per consistent owner feedback.
18. Taurus M44 — Budget .44 Magnum
Status: Current Production | Caliber: .44 Magnum | Capacity: 6 rounds | Weight: ~44+ oz
The Taurus M44 provides entry-level .44 Magnum capability for shooters wanting big-bore power without premium pricing. The large-frame stainless construction handles magnum pressures. Multiple barrel lengths serve different applications.
Carry Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ — Large-frame dimensions preclude concealment. Field carry only.
Best For: Budget .44 Magnum seekers, recreational big-bore shooters, those exploring magnum revolvers.
Key Insight: The M44 serves those wanting .44 Magnum experience without Raging Hunter hunting features or Smith & Wesson/Ruger pricing.
19. Taurus Judge — The Versatile .45 Colt/.410 Platform
Status: Current Production | Calibers: .45 Colt / .410 Bore | Capacity: 5 rounds | Weight: ~29-36 oz
The Taurus Judge created an entirely new category—a revolver firing both .45 Colt cartridges and .410 shotshells. This versatility enables snake defense, home defense with specialty ammunition, and recreational shooting with a single platform.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Bulky cylinder challenges concealment. Viable for open carry or vehicle storage.
Best For: Snake country residents, those wanting ammunition versatility, home defenders intrigued by shotshell capability.
Key Insight: The Judge polarizes—some consider it a gimmick while others praise its specific-application utility. Understanding its strengths and limitations enables appropriate use.
Taurus Tracker Revolvers: Field-Ready .357 and .44 Magnum
20. Taurus Tracker 44 — Working-Class .44 Magnum
Status: Current Production | Caliber: .44 Magnum/.44 Special | Capacity: 5 rounds | Weight: ~34 oz
The Taurus Tracker 44 delivers .44 Magnum capability in a medium-frame package at mid-$500s to $600 pricing—significantly less than Smith & Wesson 629 or Ruger Redhawk options. The factory-ported 4-inch barrel makes full-power loads "stiff but manageable."
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — Field carry in chest rigs or belt holsters. Too large for concealment but packable for backcountry.
Best For: Backcountry defense, handgun hunting, budget .44 Magnum seekers.
Key Insight: Users characterize it as "good enough for field use"—a practical working gun rather than premium collector piece. The 5-shot capacity (vs 6-shot competitors) trades capacity for reduced size/weight.
21. Taurus Tracker 627 — 7-Shot .357 Magnum Value
Status: Current Production | Caliber: .357 Magnum/.38 Special +P | Capacity: 7 rounds | Weight: ~35-40 oz
The Taurus Tracker 627 delivers 7-shot .357 Magnum capacity with factory porting at under $500-$600, one additional round over typical 6-shot competitors at lower pricing than Smith & Wesson 686 or Ruger GP100. The .38 Special +P compatibility enables economical practice.
Carry Rating: ★★☆☆☆ — The 4-inch version at 35 oz challenges daily concealed carry. Better suited for home defense, field carry, or open carry.
Best For: Home defenders wanting revolver simplicity with enhanced capacity, field users, range shooters seeking .357 Magnum value.
Key Insight: The 627 is "widely regarded as a capable, feature-rich 7-shot .357 Magnum that offers strong value"—the porting makes full-power loads approachable for newer shooters.
Taurus Firearms Buying Guide: Making the Right Choice
By Primary Use Case
Concealed Carry (Deep Concealment):
- Taurus GX4 — Best overall (capacity + concealability)
- Taurus G2S — Best single-stack option
- Taurus PT738 TCP — Best pocket .380 (if found used in good condition)
Concealed Carry (Standard IWB):
- Taurus G3C — Best value
- Taurus GX4 — Best capacity-to-size ratio
Home Defense:
- Taurus G3C — Best semi-auto value
- Taurus PT92 — Best proven reliability
- Taurus Tracker 627 — Best revolver option
- Taurus Judge — Most versatile ammunition options
Range/Training:
- Taurus TX22 — Best rimfire training
- Taurus PT92 — Best full-size centerfire
- Taurus Tracker 627 — Best revolver value
Hunting/Field:
- Taurus Raging Hunter — Best big-bore hunting
- Taurus Tracker 44 — Best packable .44 Magnum
- Taurus Judge — Best snake/varmint versatility
Budget Entry:
- Taurus G3C — Best overall starter pistol
- Taurus TX22 — Best for learning fundamentals affordably
Understanding Taurus Quality Control
Taurus quality control generates more discussion than most manufacturers. Here's realistic guidance:
Best Practices for Taurus Purchases:
- Inspect before purchase when possible
- Function-test thoroughly during return window
- Plan for 100-200 round break-in period
- Maintain regular cleaning schedules
- Use quality ammunition
Models with Best Reliability Reputation:
- PT92/PT99 (Beretta heritage)
- TX22 (with proper ammunition and break-in)
- G3C/GX4 (current-generation refinement)
- Tracker 627 (established platform)
Models Requiring Extra Vetting (Used Market):
- Millennium-series (PT111, PT140, PT145) — Safety settlement history
- PT809/PT840 — Drop-safety concerns documented
Taurus vs. Competitors: Realistic Comparisons
Taurus G3C vs. Glock 19: The G3C offers similar capacity at roughly half the price. The Glock provides superior resale value, aftermarket support, and perceived reliability. Budget-conscious buyers get genuine capability with the G3C; those prioritizing maximum reliability and resale should consider the Glock premium worthwhile.
Taurus GX4 vs. SIG P365: The GX4 delivers P365-class capacity and dimensions at significantly lower cost. The P365 offers superior fit/finish, trigger quality, and aftermarket ecosystem. The GX4 proves the capability gap has narrowed dramatically.
Taurus PT92 vs. Beretta 92: The PT92 offers genuine Beretta heritage (from the acquired factory) with frame-mounted safety many prefer. Beretta provides Italian manufacturing prestige and broader aftermarket. For capability, they're remarkably similar; for investment and collectibility, Beretta commands premiums.
Taurus Tracker vs. Ruger GP100: Ruger offers "tank-like" durability and generally smoother triggers. Taurus wins on price and standard porting. For occasional field carry and moderate round counts, the Tracker delivers; for heavy continuous magnum use, Ruger's overbuilt construction provides peace of mind.
Concealed Carry Considerations: Practical Guidance
Ease of Carry Ratings Explained:
★★★★★ — Effortless Concealment Pocket carry viable. Disappears under t-shirts. All-day comfort achievable. Forget-it's-there potential. Examples: GX4, G2S, PT738 TCP
★★★★☆ — Standard Concealment IWB carry comfortable. Requires appropriate clothing. Most body types accommodate well. Typical CCW dimensions. Examples: G3C, PT111 G2
★★★☆☆ — Moderate Challenge Heavier clothing needed. Prints under light shirts. Larger-framed individuals accommodate better. Jacket weather ideal. Examples: PT140, PT145
★★☆☆☆ — Difficult Concealment Requires dedicated concealment effort. Cover garments necessary. Better suited for open carry or home defense. Examples: PT92, TH9, Tracker revolvers
★☆☆☆☆ — Not Intended for Concealment Field carry, range use, or home defense only. Chest rigs, belt holsters, or vehicle storage. Examples: Raging Hunter, M44, TX22
Investment and Collectibility
Current Production Models (Best Long-Term Support):
- G3C, GX4, G2S — Modern striker-fired line
- PT92 — Flagship with decades of production
- TX22 — Award-winning rimfire
- Tracker 44, Tracker 627 — Established revolver platforms
- Raging Hunter — Active development with caliber expansions
- Judge — Category-creating design
Discontinued Taurus Firearms Models (Used Market Only):
- PT99 — Entering collector territory
- PT809/PT840 — Limited collector interest
- Millennium-series — Settlement history affects values
- PT738 TCP, PT709 Slim — Practical value, not collector premiums
- PT22 — Replaced by 22TUC
Value Retention: Taurus firearms depreciate more than premium brands but stabilize at useful price points. They represent functional value rather than investment vehicles. Buy for capability, not appreciation.
Final Thoughts: Is Taurus Right for You?
Taurus firearms serve shooters who prioritize capability over prestige, value over premium pricing, and function over collector appeal. The brand has evolved significantly—current-production models like the G3C, GX4, TX22, and PT92 demonstrate genuine capability that has earned respect beyond the budget segment.
Consider Taurus If:
- Budget constraints matter
- You're comfortable with potential QC variability
- Function outweighs brand prestige
- You'll inspect and function-test before committing
- You want specific Taurus features (Judge versatility, PT92 heritage, TX22 capacity)
Consider Alternatives If:
- Maximum reliability is non-negotiable
- Resale value matters significantly
- Extensive aftermarket customization is planned
- You prefer not to navigate QC variability discussions
The firearms covered in this guide range from genuinely excellent (PT92, TX22, G3C) to historically significant (PT111, PT99) to application-specific (Judge, Raging Hunter). Understanding each platform's strengths, limitations, and appropriate use cases enables informed decisions that deliver genuine value.
Taurus has earned its place in the American firearms market by making gun ownership accessible. For millions of shooters, that accessibility has translated into capable home defense, enjoyable range sessions, and successful hunts—regardless of what the brand's critics might suggest.
This guide covers 22 Taurus firearms based on comprehensive research, owner sentiment analysis, and documented test results. Individual experiences vary. Always inspect firearms personally when possible and function-test during applicable return windows.