When considering a Taurus firearm, many buyers ask if they are a good choice. Taurus handguns offer a range of features across various models, catering to different shooting needs. These firearms are generally known for their functional designs and are available at competitive price points. While individual preferences for firearms vary, Taurus pistols and revolvers are widely used and can be a suitable option for many shooters. This guide provides an overview of some popular Taurus models to help you understand their characteristics.
Taurus G3 and G3XL Pistols: Striker-Fired Options
The Taurus G3 & G3XL series includes striker-fired pistols chambered in 9mm Luger. These models are designed for various applications, from personal defense to range use. The G3 and G3XL are semi-automatic firearms with polymer frames.
Capacity options for the Taurus G3 & G3XL vary, including 10, 12, 15, and 17 rounds, allowing buyers to choose based on local regulations and personal preference. For example, the Taurus G3 9mm Full-Size Pistol, 17 Rounds offers a higher capacity, while the Taurus G3 XL 9mm, 10 Rounds provides a more compact option.
Barrel lengths available in the G3 and G3XL series range from 3.20 inches to 4.50 inches. This variation in barrel length can influence the pistol's overall size and sight radius. The finish options for these pistols include Black, FDE (Flat Dark Earth), Gray, and OD Green, among others. Some specific models include the Taurus G3XL 9mm Pistol, 12 Rounds and the Taurus G3 9mm, 15 Rounds.
The G3 and G3XL pistols feature a striker-fired action, which contributes to a consistent trigger pull. The SA w/Restrike action is also available on some models. These pistols are constructed with polymer frames, which helps in reducing overall weight.
Taurus GX4 Micro-Compact Pistols: For Concealed Carry
The Taurus GX4 series consists of micro-compact pistols designed for concealed carry. These pistols are chambered in 9mm Luger, a common pistol cartridge. The small frame and slide dimensions allow for discreet carry.
Capacity options for the Taurus GX4 vary. Standard magazines can hold 10, 11, or 13 rounds of 9mm Luger. Some models may offer a 15-round capacity. Barrel lengths are typically around 3 inches, with some models extending to 3.7 inches. The GX4 uses a striker-fired action.
Frame materials include polymer, stainless steel, or steel, depending on the specific model. Finishes range from matte black to FDE (Flat Dark Earth), with other color combinations also available. Sights are generally fixed, though some models may feature adjustable rear sights.
Specific Taurus GX4 models include the Taurus GX4 9mm Micro-Compact Pistol, 11 Rounds, the Taurus GX4 Micro-Compact, and the Taurus GX4 9mm, 13 Rounds.
Taurus 856 Revolvers: .38 Special +P
The Taurus 856 is a compact revolver chambered in .38 Special +P. This caliber offers a balance of manageable recoil and effective performance, suitable for personal defense. The 856 models typically feature a 6-round capacity.
Revolvers like the Taurus 856 operate on a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) or double-action-only (DAO) mechanism, depending on the specific model. In DA/SA, the hammer can be manually cocked for a lighter, single-action trigger pull, or the trigger can be pulled to both cock and release the hammer for a heavier, double-action pull. DAO models simplify operation by only offering the double-action pull.
Barrel lengths for the Taurus 856 vary, with common options including 2-inch and 3-inch barrels. These shorter barrel lengths contribute to the revolver's compact size, making it a choice for concealed carry. Frame materials for the 856 series include aluminum alloy, carbon steel, and stainless steel, influencing the revolver's weight and durability.
Finishes available on the Taurus 856 include matte black, matte stainless, and various Cerakote options. Some models also feature special finishes like hand-polished satin. For those interested in specific configurations, options such as the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite 38 Special +P Revolver, 2" or the Taurus 856 Executive Grade 38 Special +P, 3" are available.
Other Taurus 856 models include the Taurus Model 856 .38 Special 2" Matte Natural Anodized, 6-Shot and the Taurus 856 UL .38 Special 2", 6-Shot.
Taurus Judge Revolvers: .45 Colt and .410 Bore
The Taurus Judge is a revolver known for its multi-caliber capability. It can chamber both .45 Colt cartridges and .410 bore shotshells. This design allows for flexibility in ammunition choice, from handgun rounds to shotgun-style loads.
The Judge operates as a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) revolver, meaning the hammer can be manually cocked for a single-action pull or fired with a longer, heavier double-action pull. This action type is common in many revolvers.
Key features of the Taurus Judge include its cylinder, which is designed to accommodate the varying lengths of .45 Colt and .410 bore ammunition. Barrel lengths for the Judge vary, with options such as 3-inch and 6.5-inch barrels available. Capacity is typically 5 rounds.
Various finishes are offered, including matte black and matte stainless, and some models feature fiber optic front sights. The frame material is generally alloy steel or stainless steel, contributing to the revolver's structure and durability.
Several configurations of the Taurus Judge are available, including:
- Taurus Judge Magnum 45 Colt / 3" 410, 3" Barrel
- Taurus Raging Judge 454 Casull / 45 Colt / 410, Stainless
- Taurus Judge Executive Grade 45 Colt / 410
- Taurus Judge T.O.R.O. .45 Colt/.410 3", 5-Shot
Taurus TX22 Pistols: .22 LR for Training and Recreation
The Taurus TX22 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 LR. This rimfire caliber is often chosen for training and recreational shooting due to its lower recoil and ammunition cost.
The TX22 features a polymer frame. Barrel lengths vary, including 3.5-inch, 3.6-inch, 4-inch, 4.1-inch, 4.16-inch, 4.6-inch, 5.25-inch, and 5.4-inch options. Available capacities include 10 rounds, 13 rounds, 15 rounds, 16 rounds, and 22 rounds.
Various finishes are available for the TX22, such as Black, Flat Dark Earth (FDE), and two-tone combinations like Black and Gray or Black/Flat Dark Earth. Some models also feature more distinct finishes like American Flag/Black or Distressed Black Flag.
Sights on the TX22 can include 3-Dot, Fixed Front with Adjustable Rear, or Open Notch configurations. Some TX22 models are also designed to accept reflex or dot sights.
Examples of TX22 pistols include the Taurus TX22 .22 LR, 10 Rounds, the Taurus Tx 22 OD Green, 16 Rounds, and the Taurus TX22 .22 LR Gray, 16 Rounds.
Buying Taurus Handguns Online: The FFL Transfer Process
Purchasing a firearm online, including Taurus handguns, involves a standard process that includes an FFL transfer. This process ensures that all federal and local regulations are followed.
When you buy a firearm from an online retailer, the handgun cannot be shipped directly to your home address. Instead, it must be shipped to a licensed Federal Firearm License (FFL) dealer in your state. This FFL dealer acts as an intermediary, facilitating the legal transfer of the firearm to you.
Here’s how the FFL transfer process typically works:
- Select an FFL Dealer: After placing your order, you will need to choose a local FFL dealer. This could be a gun store, pawn shop, or any other entity that holds a current FFL. Many online retailers have a network of FFLs you can select from, or you can find one independently.
- Provide FFL Information: You will provide the online retailer with your chosen FFL dealer’s contact information. The retailer will then contact your FFL to arrange the shipment of the firearm.
- Shipment to FFL: The online retailer ships the firearm to your selected FFL dealer.
- Background Check and Pickup: Once the firearm arrives at your FFL dealer, you will visit their location. At the FFL, you will complete the required paperwork, which includes ATF Form 4473. The FFL dealer will then conduct a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). If the background check is approved, you can then take possession of your Taurus handgun.
It is important to understand any state or local laws that may apply to firearm transfers in your area. FFL dealers are familiar with these regulations and can guide you through the process.
