The Taurus PT738 TCP is an ultra-compact, polymer-framed, locked-breech .380 ACP pocket pistol featuring a 2.84-inch barrel, 6+1 capacity, and smooth DAO trigger designed to compete with the Ruger LCP and Kel-Tec P-3AT.
This Brazilian-made micro-pistol measures approximately 5.2-5.25 inches in overall length, 3.25-3.75 inches in height, only 0.80-0.87 inches in width, and weighs approximately 10.2 ounces unloaded.
The PT738 TCP is discontinued and has been superseded by other Taurus designs, with phase-out driven by product evolution rather than any TCP-specific recall.
What Made the Taurus PT738 TCP Stand Out Among Pocket .380s?
The Taurus PT738 TCP earned devoted followers through its combination of smooth trigger, locked-breech design, and near-full-length metal frame rails, features that set it apart from many competitors in the pocket .380 segment. Some reviewers called it "Taurus's best gun," praising reliability and shootability that exceeded expectations for the price point.
Taurus Armas manufactured the PT738 TCP in Brazil, with Taurus USA handling distribution. Production began around 2009, positioning the TCP as Taurus's answer to the Ruger LCP and Kel-Tec P-3AT pocket .380 market. The platform gained a following among shooters seeking affordable deep concealment.
The TCP's locked-breech design distinguishes it from many similar-size .380s that use blowback operation. This design choice helps soften recoil compared with blowback competitors while potentially improving reliability.
The near-full-length metal rails (longer than small steel inserts common in some competitors) contribute to both reliability and accuracy according to reviewers.
Discontinuation around 2018 reflects normal product strategy rather than safety concerns. No TCP-specific recall comparable to the Millennium settlement exists. Taurus moved to the Spectrum (also now discontinued) and other designs, leaving TCP examples available only on the used market where devoted fans continue seeking them out.
What Are the Complete Specifications of the Taurus PT738 TCP?
The Taurus PT738 TCP chambers .380 ACP with 6+1 capacity from single-stack magazines. It measures approximately 5.2-5.25 inches in overall length with a 2.84-inch barrel, stands 3.25-3.75 inches tall (depending on magazine baseplate), spans only 0.80-0.87 inches wide, and weighs approximately 10.2 ounces unloaded.
Caliber
The PT738 TCP chambers .380 ACP exclusively. The locked-breech design handles standard and +P ammunition, though extended +P use may accelerate wear. TTAG's testing confirmed reliable function with Buffalo Bore +P defensive loads.
Dimensions
Overall length reaches approximately 5.2-5.25 inches—pocket-sized for deep concealment. Height measures approximately 3.25-3.75 inches depending on magazine baseplate.
Width spans only 0.80-0.87 inches—extremely thin for disappearing in pockets. These dimensions place the TCP directly in the Ruger LCP/Kel-Tec P-3AT size class.
Weight Specifications
Unloaded weight reaches approximately 10.2 ounces—remarkably light for effortless pocket carry. This featherweight construction enables all-day carry without noticing the gun's presence while contributing to snappier recoil during shooting.
Magazine Capacity
Single-stack 6-round magazines provide 6+1 total capacity. This capacity matches the Ruger LCP and similar pocket .380s. Different baseplate options affect overall height slightly.
Action Type
The locked-breech, hammer-fired, double-action-only design with internal hammer provides smooth operation. Average Joe's measured approximately 4.8 pounds—lighter and smoother than many competing pocket .380 triggers.
This unusually good trigger earned consistent praise.
How Does the Taurus PT738 TCP Design Support Deep Concealment?
The PT738 TCP features a polymer frame with near-full-length metal rails paired with blued carbon steel or stainless slides.
Very low-profile fixed sights (milled front ramp and rear notch) minimize snagging in pockets. The locked-breech design softens recoil compared with blowback .380s in this size class.
Frame and Slide Construction
The polymer frame incorporates near-full-length metal rails—longer than the small steel inserts common in some competitors.
TTAG specifically praises this rail design as more robust than typical insert rails, contributing to both reliability and accuracy. Slides came in blued carbon steel or stainless (matte or polished), with stainless models commanding higher MSRP.
Ergonomics and Grip Design
Ergonomics earn general praise for a gun this small. The grip and frame shape provide better feel than some competitors, though those with large hands may struggle for full purchase.
The small grip and sharp recoil mean the TCP suits occasional practice and carry rather than long training sessions—a common constraint among micro .380s.
Sight Configuration
Very low-profile fixed sights feature a milled front ramp and rear notch designed specifically to prevent snagging in pockets.
These tiny sights prove functional at close defensive ranges but limit precision at longer distances. Many reviewers point out the sights are "extremely small and not intended for precision beyond close defensive ranges."
Controls and Safety Systems
No manual thumb safety exists—the TCP relies on the long DAO trigger, internal safeties, and inertial firing pin.
This design philosophy suits pocket carry where snag-free operation matters. The slide stop serves primarily for administrative use; many owners slingshot the slide rather than using it as a lock-back control.
Locked-Breech Advantage
The locked-breech design (unusual in such a small .380, as many are blowback) helps soften recoil compared with similar-size pistols. This design choice contributes to the TCP's reputation for manageable recoil despite its minimal weight.
What Variants of the Taurus PT738 TCP Were Produced?
Taurus produced the PT738 TCP in standard blued slide and stainless slide variants with various frame/slide color combinations. All variants share identical mechanics, 6+1 capacity, and the 2.84-inch barrel. No factory optics-ready or extended-magazine versions exist beyond floor-plate options.
PT738 TCP (Standard)
The standard PT738 TCP features a polymer frame with blued carbon steel slide and 6+1 capacity. This configuration represents the most common and affordable variant on the used market.
Stainless Slide Variant
The stainless slide variant pairs a silver-toned slide with polymer frame, offering enhanced corrosion resistance for pocket carry where perspiration exposure occurs. Stainless models commanded higher MSRP when new.
Cosmetic Variations
Various frame and slide color combinations existed without mechanical differences. All cosmetic variants share the same capacity, trigger, and locked-breech operation.
Successor: Taurus Spectrum
The TCP is widely regarded as the Spectrum's immediate predecessor. However, some CCW users prefer the older TCP over the Spectrum due to perceived better reliability. The Spectrum itself was discontinued around 2021, and Taurus has not reintroduced the TCP line.
What Similar Pistols Compete with the Taurus PT738 TCP?
The Ruger LCP offers proven pocket .380 reliability with extensive aftermarket support. The Kel-Tec P-3AT provides similar dimensions at competitive pricing.
The Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 includes a manual safety for those preferring that option. The SIG P238 delivers 1911-style operation in a premium package. Comparisons typically find the TCP's trigger better than some rivals while recoil proves slightly softer than blowback competitors.
How Does the Taurus PT738 TCP Perform at the Range?
The PT738 TCP delivers good accuracy for a micro .380 with reliable function in properly manufactured examples. The smooth sub-5-pound DAO trigger exceeds typical pocket .380 standards.
Recoil proves snappy but manageable thanks to the locked-breech design. Reliability varies by individual example, requiring thorough vetting.
Accuracy Testing
Accuracy proves good for a micro .380. TTAG found the TCP accurate "for a gun this size," noting that near-full-length rails likely help both reliability and accuracy.
Groups at defensive distances were entirely satisfactory. Average Joe's recorded good practical accuracy with the tiny sights, considering the gun fully capable for contact-distance defense. The sights limit precision at longer ranges, but the TCP handles typical defensive scenarios adequately.
Recoil Characteristics
Recoil is snappy but manageable, aided by the locked-breech design that distinguishes the TCP from blowback competitors.
Several reviewers describe recoil as "less abusive than some blowback .380s in this size range." Some shooters still find extended strings uncomfortable due to the small grip, making the TCP better suited for occasional practice than high-round-count sessions.
Reliability Assessment
Reliability shows the polarized nature of TCP ownership. On good samples, reliability impresses. Shooting Illustrated ran multiple TCPs through several hundred rounds without a single malfunction.
TTAG's 2025 review ran 104 rounds with 100% reliability and cited a trusted range owner's 10,000+ round TCP with no issues. Average Joe's reported flawless function emphasizing the TCP "worked perfectly with all of the ammunition used."
However, isolated but serious functional issues exist. One 2023 video documents the slide returning slowly and not fully going into battery. Some owners report failures to feed or return to battery until properly gripped or broken in.
Customer service experiences for defective units have proven frustrating. Each individual pistol needs thorough vetting with carry ammunition.
Trigger Performance
The smooth, sub-5-pound DAO trigger earns consistent praise as unusually good for a pocket .380. Average Joe's measured approximately 4.8 pounds—lighter and smoother than many competitors.
This trigger quality represents one of the TCP's standout features, contributing to its devoted following among owners who received good examples.
What Ammunition Works Best in the Taurus PT738 TCP?
The PT738 TCP functions reliably with quality .380 ACP ammunition including standard and +P loads in properly manufactured examples.
The locked-breech design handles hotter ammunition, though extensive +P use may accelerate wear. Thorough testing with chosen carry ammunition proves essential.
Defensive Load Selection
Premium defensive hollow-points from Federal, Speer, Hornady, and similar manufacturers function in properly vetted TCP examples.
TTAG confirmed reliable function with Buffalo Bore +P defensive loads. The locked-breech design handles these hotter loads better than blowback alternatives.
Practice Ammunition
Standard brass-cased FMJ ammunition suits range sessions. Blazer aluminum and brass-cased ammunition functioned reliably in TTAG's testing. Quality ammunition and proper lubrication contribute to reliable function.
Pre-Carry Testing
Given documented individual variation, extensive function testing before defensive reliance proves absolutely essential. Keep the gun well-lubricated and use quality ammunition as key reliability factors.
Run several hundred rounds through any TCP before carrying, confirming function with your specific defensive load.
What Are the Best Use Cases for the Taurus PT738 TCP?
The PT738 TCP serves primarily as a deep concealment backup or pocket-carried primary where maximum concealability outweighs capacity and caliber concerns.
The extremely small size and light weight enable carry methods impossible with larger firearms.
Is the Taurus PT738 TCP Good for Concealed Carry?
The TCP excels at deep concealment—its primary design purpose. The 0.80-0.87-inch width, 10.2-ounce weight, and snag-free profile disappear in pockets or minimal holsters. Owners consistently praise how easily the TCP carries concealed.
However, .380 ACP limitations apply, it's a compromise caliber for maximum concealability rather than optimal terminal performance.
Does the Taurus PT738 TCP Work for Home Defense?
Home defense represents a suboptimal TCP application. The 6+1 .380 ACP capacity limits defensive capability compared to larger calibers and higher capacities.
No accessory rail exists for weapon lights, important for home defense scenarios. Larger firearms better serve dedicated home defense roles.
Can the Taurus PT738 TCP Compete in Shooting Sports?
Competition viability is essentially nil. The tiny sights, 6+1 capacity, and pocket-gun constraints don't support competitive shooting. The TCP functions as carry tool, not competition platform.
Is This a Deep Concealment Specialist or Range Gun?
The TCP is definitively a deep concealment specialist rather than a range gun. The small grip and sharp recoil mean it suits occasional practice and carry rather than long training sessions—standard constraints among micro .380s.
Train enough to maintain proficiency, but don't expect comfortable high-round-count sessions.
What Holster Options Work Best for the Taurus PT738 TCP?
Finding the right Taurus PT738 TCP holster benefits from the platform's years of popularity in the pocket .380 segment. Multiple manufacturers offered specific molding for this tiny pistol. The narrow profile enables pocket carry and other deep concealment methods.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 delivers comfort for inside-the-waistband carry of your Taurus PT738 TCP. The breathable backing and adjustable retention make this TCP holster suitable for all-day concealed carry applications.
OWB Paddle Holster
Paddle holsters allow quick attachment and removal of your Taurus PT738 TCP without threading a belt. The paddle design works excellently for range sessions with your pocket .380 pistol.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Taurus PT738 TCP?
Strengths:
- Extremely compact (0.80-0.87" wide)
- Ultra-lightweight at 10.2 ounces
- Smooth, light trigger (~4.8 lb)
- Locked-breech design softens recoil
- Near-full-length metal frame rails
- Snag-free low-profile sights
- Reliable function in good examples
- Good accuracy for micro .380
- Handles +P ammunition
- Competitive pricing on used market
- No recall issues like Millennium series
- Devoted following among fans
Limitations:
- Polarized reliability—sample-dependent
- Individual QC issues documented
- Customer service frustrations reported
- Tiny sights limit precision
- 6+1 capacity in .380 ACP
- Not suited for high-round-count practice
- Small grip challenging for large hands
- Discontinued—limited parts support
- Superseded by other designs
- Some battery issues reported
- Requires thorough individual vetting
Should You Buy a Taurus PT738 TCP?
The Taurus PT738 TCP earns a conditional recommendation for deep concealment seekers who thoroughly vet their specific example and appreciate the platform's standout trigger and locked-breech design.
The TCP can be excellent when properly manufactured but requires verification before defensive reliance.
Who Should Consider the Taurus PT738 TCP?
The TCP suits shooters seeking maximum concealment in a .380 package with better-than-typical trigger quality. Those finding good used examples willing to thoroughly test function may discover why some call it "Taurus's best gun." Pocket carry devotees appreciate the snag-free profile and minimal weight.
Buyers uncomfortable with documented quality variability should choose more consistently manufactured alternatives.
Those seeking primary defensive firearms should consider larger calibers and higher capacities. New buyers wanting pocket .380s might evaluate current-production options with better factory support.
Value Assessment
Used PT738 TCP pistols at sub-$200 prices represent solid value for informed buyers who thoroughly vet function.
The smooth trigger, locked-breech design, and near-full-length rails justify investment for appropriate use cases. The devoted following among satisfied owners confirms genuine capability when examples function properly.
Long-Term Ownership Considerations
The TCP's discontinued status creates long-term considerations. Parts support relies on surplus availability. Customer service experiences during production varied significantly. Existing TCP owners with reliable examples can continue using them, but new acquisition should account for support limitations.
The Taurus PT738 TCP earned devoted followers through genuinely impressive features—smooth trigger, locked-breech design, near-full-length rails—that exceeded pocket .380 expectations. For those who find good examples, the TCP delivers on its promise of deep concealment capability.
The key lies in thorough vetting before trusting any individual specimen for defensive use.