The Taurus PT140 is the .40 S&W variant of the Millennium/Millennium Pro family, a compact polymer-framed striker-fired pistol designed for concealed carry.
This Brazilian-made compact features a 3.25-inch barrel in a polymer frame measuring approximately 6.125 inches in overall length, 5.125 inches in height, and 1.125-1.2 inches in width, weighing approximately 18.7 ounces unloaded. Standard capacity reaches 10+1 rounds from double-stack magazines.
All PT140-branded Millennium and Millennium Pro pistols are discontinued and were included in a major class-action safety-defect settlement covering drop-fire and faulty-safety issues.
What Is the Taurus PT140 and Why Was It Discontinued?
The Taurus PT140 Millennium Pro delivered compact .40 S&W power in a lightweight polymer package, offering 10+1 capacity at budget prices before being discontinued due to safety-defect litigation and Taurus's transition to newer G-series designs. This platform represents an important but troubled chapter in Taurus's history.
Taurus Armas manufactured the PT140 in Brazil, with Taurus International handling U.S. importation. The Millennium series represented Taurus's answer to the growing compact polymer pistol market of the early 2000s. The platform gained popularity for its combination of capacity, compactness, and affordability, though it later became embroiled in safety controversy.
The PT140 evolved through the original Millennium (early DAO) to the Millennium Pro with improved ergonomics, Heinie-style sights, and refined trigger. Production continued through at least the early 2010s before G2-branded successors took over. The platform shares its foundation with the PT111 (9mm) and PT145 (.45 ACP) variants.
Discontinuation stems from two factors: the class-action safety-defect settlement alleging drop-fire and false-safety issues, and Taurus's strategic modernization toward G-series pistols. Today, PT140 examples exist only on the used market, requiring careful consideration of settlement eligibility and individual specimen condition.
What Are the Complete Specifications of the Taurus PT140?
The Taurus PT140 Millennium Pro chambers .40 S&W with 10+1 capacity from double-stack magazines. It measures approximately 6.125 inches in overall length with a 3.25-inch barrel, stands 5.125 inches tall, spans 1.125-1.2 inches wide, and weighs approximately 18.7 ounces unloaded.
Caliber
The PT140 chambers .40 S&W exclusively, delivering more power than the 9mm PT111 at the cost of increased recoil and reduced capacity. The .40 S&W chambering appealed to shooters wanting more terminal performance from a compact platform during the caliber's peak popularity.
Dimensions
Overall length reaches approximately 6.125 inches—compact enough for effective concealment. Height measures approximately 5.125 inches. Width spans approximately 1.125-1.2 inches. These dimensions match the PT111 9mm's footprint while accommodating the wider .40 S&W cartridge.
Weight Specifications
Unloaded weight reaches approximately 18.7 ounces—remarkably light for a .40 S&W compact. This light weight aids concealment but contributes to the platform's notably snappy recoil. The polymer frame and compact steel slide create manageable carry weight at the expense of shooting comfort.
Magazine Capacity
Double-stack 10-round magazines provide 10+1 total capacity. This represented competitive capacity for .40 S&W compacts of the era. Magazine design follows Millennium-series patterns.
Barrel Specifications
The 3.25-inch barrel provides adequate velocity for defensive .40 S&W loads while maintaining compact dimensions. The mirror-polished feed ramp addresses feeding reliability. The short barrel contributes to the platform's snappy recoil characteristics.
How Does the Taurus PT140 Design Compare to Modern Compacts?
The PT140 Millennium Pro features a polymer frame with checkered grip panels and a steel slide available in blued, stainless, or two-tone finishes.
The striker-fired action with DA/SA-style operation provides pre-cocked striker function with second-strike capability. Multiple safety systems include manual thumb safety, firing-pin block, and trigger block.
Frame and Slide Construction
The polymer frame incorporates checkered/grippy panels in a compact double-stack configuration. Slides came in blued carbon steel, stainless, or two-tone (stainless slide over black frame).
Construction quality proved adequate for the platform's intended use, though the safety settlement raises questions about some production runs.
Ergonomics and Grip Design
The compact grip fits average-sized hands well and points naturally. Reviewers praise the positively-clicking controls (safety, slide release) for easy operation.
Some users with larger hands add slip-on grips for more bulk. The recessed magazine release prevents accidental drops during carry or firing.
Sight Configuration
"Heinie Straight-8" style sights feature single dot front and single dot rear in vertical alignment—a departure from traditional three-dot systems.
Metal dovetailed sights allow windage adjustment. This sight picture suits some shooters while others prefer conventional arrangements.
Safety Systems
Multiple safeties address various concerns: manual thumb safety, firing-pin block, and trigger block.
Some PT140 Pro examples include Taurus's internal security lock. However, the class-action settlement alleged that these safety systems could fail—guns potentially firing when dropped or with the safety engaged.
Trigger System
The striker-fired trigger operates with DA/SA-style characteristics—pre-cocked striker with long pull and second-strike capability.
Users describe the trigger as "long and heavy, with resistance at the end of travel" though it "breaks cleanly and has a quick reset." The trigger remains one of the platform's weaker points for rapid, precise shooting.
What Variants of the Taurus PT140 Were Produced?
Taurus produced the PT140 in original Millennium (early DAO) and Millennium Pro (improved) generations, with finish options including blue/black, stainless, and two-tone.
All variants share the same basic mechanical layout and were covered by the safety-defect settlement.
PT140 Millennium (Original)
The original PT140 Millennium featured first-generation DAO trigger operation. This early variant was explicitly included in the class-action settlement. Examples from this generation require particular caution regarding safety concerns.
PT140 Millennium Pro
The Millennium Pro update brought improved ergonomics, Heinie-style sights, and refined trigger characteristics while maintaining the 3.25-inch barrel and 10+1 capacity. This generation represented the platform's peak development before discontinuation.
Finish Variants
All finish options (blue/black, stainless, two-tone) share identical mechanical specifications. The two-tone configuration pairing stainless slide with black polymer frame proved popular for aesthetic reasons.
Related Millennium Family
The PT140 shares the Millennium/Millennium Pro platform with PT111 (9mm) and PT145 (.45 ACP). Ergonomics, trigger characteristics, and safety history parallel across the family, with caliber-specific capacity and recoil differences.
What Similar Pistols Compete with the Taurus PT140?
Modern Taurus G-series pistols (G2C, G3C in 9mm) offer refined triggers, better texturing, and updated safety/branding without the settlement history.
The Glock 27 provides similar .40 S&W compact capability with proven reliability and extensive aftermarket. The Smith & Wesson M&P40c delivers .40 S&W in a modern compact platform. For those specifically seeking budget .40 S&W today, options have shifted primarily to 9mm with improved modern ammunition.
How Does the Taurus PT140 Perform at the Range?
The PT140 Millennium Pro delivers adequate defensive accuracy with generally reliable function in properly vetted examples, though the heavy trigger and snappy .40 S&W recoil from its light frame create shooting challenges. Reliability varies by individual specimen given the safety settlement context.
Accuracy Testing
Practical accuracy proves adequate for defensive distances. Christian Gun Owner notes that "at typical defensive distances (out to about 40 feet), all 10 rounds could be kept in the head or center-mass area of a silhouette at relatively fast firing pace."
The limiting factors tend to be the heavy trigger and snappy recoil rather than inherent mechanical inaccuracy.
Recoil Characteristics
Recoil represents the PT140's primary shooting challenge. The platform "handles .40 S&W better than some subcompacts," but recoil remains "manageable but not pleasant," with extended sessions leaving hands sore. Video reviewers emphasize that .40 from a 3.25-inch barrel in an 18.7-ounce gun is snappy. Newer shooters may find it fatiguing compared with 9mm compacts.
Reliability Assessment
Independent testing shows mixed results reflecting the platform's complex history. Christian Gun Owner calls the PT140 Millennium Pro "dependable," reporting function without issue in testing.
A High Road user's 1,400-round review reports only three failures—one from a dud primer and two other rare issues—rating overall reliability "very good for a carry pistol."
However, the safety-defect settlement's inclusion of PT140 indicates that at least some examples had serious safety/trigger issues, prompting Taurus to offer repair/replace or cash-out options. This history demands thorough vetting of any specific example before defensive reliance.
Trigger Performance
The trigger earns mixed reviews. The long, heavy pull with resistance at the end of travel challenges rapid, precise shooting. However, it breaks cleanly with quick reset. Most users consider the trigger acceptable for defensive use while acknowledging it as the platform's weaker point.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Taurus PT140?
The PT140 functions reliably with quality .40 S&W defensive and practice loads in properly maintained examples. The mirror-polished feed ramp aids feeding reliability. Given the platform's recoil characteristics, ammunition selection affects both function and shooting comfort.
Defensive Load Selection
Modern premium hollow-points from Federal, Speer, Hornady, and similar manufacturers should function in properly vetted PT140 pistols. Some shooters recommend 180-grain loads for slightly reduced recoil compared to 165-grain options while maintaining defensive effectiveness.
Practice Ammunition
Standard .40 S&W FMJ ammunition functions reliably for range sessions. Budget-conscious shooters can train economically with standard loads while confirming function with chosen defensive ammunition. The snappy recoil may limit extended practice session comfort.
Pre-Carry Testing
Given the safety settlement history and individual variation, extensive function testing before defensive reliance proves absolutely critical.
Running several hundred rounds through any used PT140 before carrying reveals issues requiring attention—and verifying the specific serial number against settlement eligibility provides important context.
What Are the Best Use Cases for the Taurus PT140?
The PT140 served primarily as a budget concealed carry option for those wanting .40 S&W power in a compact package.
Today, used examples suit collectors, range guns, or carefully vetted concealed carry for buyers who accept the platform's limitations and history.
Is the Taurus PT140 Good for Concealed Carry?
The PT140 was designed specifically for concealed carry, and its compact dimensions enable effective concealment. The 10+1 .40 S&W capacity provides serious defensive capability.
However, the safety-defect settlement history raises legitimate concerns. Buyers considering PT140 for carry should verify settlement status, thoroughly vet the specific pistol, and consider whether modern alternatives better serve their needs.
Does the Taurus PT140 Work for Home Defense?
Home defense represents a possible PT140 application where its compact size matters less.
The 10+1 capacity addresses defensive scenarios. However, the same safety concerns apply, and larger platforms with better triggers may prove superior for dedicated home defense.
Can the Taurus PT140 Compete in Shooting Sports?
The PT140's heavy trigger, snappy recoil, and limited aftermarket challenge competitive use.
Casual shooting and skill development prove more realistic applications. The platform wasn't designed for competition.
Is This a Professional Tool or Historical Curiosity?
The PT140 today functions more as a historical curiosity or carefully-vetted budget option than a recommended professional tool.
The safety settlement, discontinued status, and availability of superior modern options position it as a used-market value proposition for informed buyers rather than a first-choice recommendation.
What Holster Options Work Best for the Taurus PT140?
Finding the right Taurus PT140 holster requires attention to the platform's discontinued status and potentially limited new holster production. Existing Millennium-series holsters may fit, though verification remains important.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 delivers comfort for inside-the-waistband carry of your Taurus PT140. The breathable backing and adjustable retention make this PT140 Millennium Pro holster suitable for concealed carry applications.
Belt Holster
A dedicated belt holster keeps your Taurus PT140 secure and accessible for range use or open carry. This straightforward holster design positions your PT140 pistol consistently while distributing weight along the belt line.
ShapeShift OWB Paddle Holster
Paddle holsters allow quick attachment and removal of your Taurus PT140 without threading a belt. The paddle design works excellently for range sessions with your Millennium Pro pistol.
Chest Holster
Chest carry places your Taurus PT140 accessibly while wearing heavy outerwear or outdoor gear. The chest holster configuration proves useful when waistband carry becomes impractical.
Belly Band
Belly band holsters enable deep concealment of the Taurus PT140 under various clothing types. The elastic band conforms to your body while securing your PT140 Millennium Pro against your torso.
Appendix Holster
Appendix carry positions your Taurus PT140 holster at the front of the body for rapid access. This carry method suits the PT140's compact dimensions for everyday carry.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Taurus PT140?
Strengths:
- 10+1 .40 S&W capacity in compact package
- Lightweight at 18.7 ounces for easy carry
- Generally reliable in properly vetted examples
- Adequate defensive accuracy
- Comfortable ergonomics for average hands
- Recessed magazine release prevents accidental drops
- Low used-market pricing
- Multiple finish options available
- Heinie-style sights on Pro models
- Second-strike trigger capability
Limitations:
- Covered by safety-defect class-action settlement
- Drop-fire and false-safety issues alleged
- Snappy, fatiguing .40 S&W recoil
- Long, heavy trigger pull
- Discontinued—limited parts support
- Limited aftermarket compared to major brands
- Light weight increases felt recoil
- Requires thorough individual vetting
- Settlement history affects resale value
- Superseded by modern G-series designs
Should You Buy a Taurus PT140?
The Taurus PT140 earns a heavily conditional recommendation only for informed buyers who understand the platform's safety settlement history, thoroughly vet individual specimens, and accept the limitations of a discontinued design. Most buyers should consider modern alternatives with cleaner histories and better support.
Who Should Consider the Taurus PT140?
The PT140 might suit collectors interested in Taurus history, budget buyers finding deeply discounted used examples willing to thoroughly vet their specific pistol, or those specifically wanting a lightweight .40 S&W compact who accept associated risks.
Buyers should absolutely verify any PT140's eligibility for settlement repair/replacement before purchase. Those uncomfortable with the safety history should choose modern alternatives. New buyers seeking concealed carry should generally prefer current-production pistols with established reliability records.
Value Assessment
Used PT140 pistols at sub-$200 prices represent potential value only for informed buyers accepting significant caveats. The safety settlement, discontinued status, and availability of modern alternatives mean the "value" equation requires weighing more than just price. Many shooters reasonably conclude that paying more for a modern platform without safety controversy provides better long-term value.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
The PT140's discontinued status creates significant long-term concerns. Parts and service rely on surplus availability. The safety settlement demonstrated systemic issues requiring attention. Modern Taurus G-series designs offer improved features without the Millennium legacy. Prospective buyers should consider whether preserving an aging, safety-questioned platform serves their needs better than current alternatives.
The Taurus PT140 represents a cautionary tale in the firearms industry—a platform with genuine capability undermined by safety concerns that led to class-action litigation and eventual discontinuation. Informed buyers who carefully vet individual examples may find functional pistols, but the platform's history demands thorough consideration before purchase