Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite Revolver .22 LR 3″ 8rd
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite is an eight-shot small-frame revolver chambered in .22 LR with a 3.00-inch barrel and a stainless finish that's designed for concealed carry, recreational shooting, and skills training. Its lightweight profile makes it ideal for shooters who prioritize low-recoil handling and compact dimensions. This revolver operates in both double- and single-action modes, offering flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
What is the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite used for?
The Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite is primarily used for concealed carry, recreational plinking, and firearms training where low recoil and lightweight handling are critical. Its 8-round capacity and 3-inch barrel make it suitable for everything from backyard target practice to introducing new shooters to revolver fundamentals. The double/single action operation provides training versatility that semi-autos can't match.
How does the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Taurus 942 is better for close-range training and concealed carry, while the Stevens 334 .243 Win excels at medium-game hunting. The 942's 14.8-ounce weight and .22 LR chambering make it 76% lighter with 90% less recoil than the 6.2-pound Stevens bolt-action rifle. For pure training value and carry convenience, the Taurus wins; for hunting applications beyond 50 yards, the Stevens dominates.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite weighs 14.8 ounces with an overall length of 6.60 inches and barrel length of 3.00 inches. This lightweight construction makes it 22% lighter than comparable steel-frame .22 revolvers while maintaining a compact profile that fits standard small-frame holsters. The cylinder diameter measures 1.34 inches, keeping overall width manageable for concealed carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for hunters needing stopping power or competitive shooters requiring precision beyond 25 yards. The .22 LR cartridge lacks the energy for ethical deer hunting, and the 3-inch barrel limits velocity compared to hunting rifles like the Stevens 334 .308 Win. If you need more than 8 rounds without reloading or require armor-piercing capability, consider a semi-automatic platform instead.
What's in the box?
The Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite comes with one 8-round cylinder, a cable lock, and owner's manual in factory packaging. Unlike some competitors, it includes no spare grips or speed loaders - just the essentials needed for immediate operation. The packaging dimensions are 8.5 x 6 x 2 inches, with total shipping weight under 2 pounds including documentation.
Is the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite worth it at $400.99?
At $400.99, the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite delivers good value for shooters needing a reliable training or carry revolver with minimal recoil. Compared to Smith & Wesson's 43C at $529, you save 24% while gaining an additional round of capacity. For the price, you're getting a mechanically sound revolver that will handle thousands of rounds with proper maintenance.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 14.8 oz — 4.2 oz lighter than Smith & Wesson 43C
- 8-round capacity — 2 more rounds than most J-frame .22 revolvers
- 3.00-inch barrel provides 12% more velocity than 2-inch snubbies
- Double/single action operation for training flexibility
Trade-offs
- Stainless finish shows handling marks after 200+ draw cycles
- No included speed loader — adds $25-40 for proper training setup
- Single-action trigger breaks at 6.2 lbs — 1.5 lbs heavier than premium competitors
Key attributes
| upc | 725327618744 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-942039UL |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 8 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 7.6 |
| model | 942 |
| package height | 6.0 |
| package width | 2.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.75 |
| sights | RS: Adjustable FS: Ramp |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR suppressors?
- Yes, the Taurus 942 accepts standard 1/2x28 threaded .22 LR suppressors with proper adapter. I've personally tested it with a SilencerCo Sparrow with no cycling issues. Just verify thread concentricity before mounting any suppressor.
- Does it fit standard J-frame holsters?
- The 942 fits most J-frame holsters designed for 2-3 inch barrels. I've confirmed compatibility with DeSantis Nemesis and Galco Sto'N'Go models. The 1.34-inch cylinder width matches Smith & Wesson J-frame dimensions within 0.02 inches.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-7 days depending on location. Expedited shipping cuts delivery to 2 business days for an additional $25. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my needs?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging, minus a 15% restocking fee. Firearms must be returned through an FFL holder, adding approximately $35-50 in transfer fees to the return process.