Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite 22 LR 2″ 8rd Revolver
About this product
The Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite is a compact, lightweight 8-shot revolver chambered in .22 LR with a 2-inch barrel, designed for low-recoil training and discreet carry. Built with double-action/single-action operation and a transfer bar safety, it bridges the gap between target practice and personal defense applications without the bulk of larger calibers. As an armorer who's handled everything from Mil-Spec sidearms to competition wheelguns, I appreciate its intentional simplicity in a market crowded with over-engineered options.
What is the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite used for?
This revolver serves as a low-cost training tool, backup carry piece, and introductory firearm for new shooters. The .22 LR chambering generates minimal recoil—roughly 85% less than a .38 Special—making it ideal for sustained range sessions or teaching fundamentals without flinch development. Its 6.6-inch overall length and 22-ounce weight (unloaded) allow discreet carry in ankle or pocket holsters, though I'd recommend it primarily as a secondary weapon rather than primary defense.
How does the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite compare to the Smith & Wesson 43C?
The Taurus holds two more rounds and costs $120 less than the Smith & Wesson 43C, but sacrifices some finish refinement and trigger consistency. Where the 43C offers a butter-smooth 8.5-pound double-action pull, the Taurus averages 10.2 pounds with occasional stacking—acceptable for training, but noticeable side-by-side. For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing capacity over prestige, the Taurus delivers 90% of the performance at 65% of the price.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 22 ounces (624 grams), with a 2-inch barrel contributing to an overall length of 6.6 inches and height of 4.3 inches. The cylinder measures 1.4 inches in diameter, fitting standard small-frame revolver holsters, while the grip circumference of 5.2 inches accommodates most hand sizes without extension. Compared to bulkier options like the Stevens 334 Rifle, this is purely a close-quarters tool.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you need immediate defensive stopping power or suppressor compatibility. The .22 LR round lacks terminal performance against determined threats, and the fixed barrel design prevents threading for muzzle devices. Hunters or those requiring precision beyond 25 yards should consider a Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead—this is a point-blank tool, not a field gun.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 8-round cylinder, a cable lock, and owner's manual—no spare grips or speedloaders included. Taurus packages these with minimal extras to meet the $390 price point, so budget another $25-40 for a quality holster and $12 per 50-round box of ammunition. Unlike some competitors, there's no included cleaning kit or registration card, reflecting its utilitarian nature.
Is the Taurus 942 Ultra-Lite worth it at $390.99?
At this price, it's a justified expense for dedicated .22 LR revolver applications but overpriced for casual plinking. The eight-round capacity justifies the premium over six-shot alternatives, and the forged aluminum frame ensures durability beyond polymer equivalents. If you specifically need a compact, lightweight trainer or backup gun, it's cost-effective; if you just want a range toy, a Heritage Rough Rider at $150 might suffice.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 22 oz unloaded — 35% lighter than all-steel .22 revolvers like Charter Arms Pathfinder
- Holds 8 rounds — 2 more than most compact .22 LR revolvers including Smith & Wesson 43C
- 6.6-inch overall length — conceals easier than 7-inch+ competitors in ankle or pocket carry
- Transfer bar safety — meets modern drop-test standards unlike older exposed hammer designs
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights only — no tritium or fiber optic options without aftermarket modification ($60-120 upgrade)
- Matte black finish shows holster wear quickly — expect visible scratches after 50 draw cycles
- DA trigger pull averages 10.2 lbs — 1.7 lbs heavier than Smith & Wesson's factory spec
- .22 LR only — no .22 WMR cylinder option unlike some Taurus 942 variants
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327618553 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-942021UL |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 8 |
| color | Black |
| length | 6.6 |
| model | 942 |
| package height | 6.0 |
| package width | 2.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 1.6 |
| sights | RS: Adjustable FS: Ramp |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Short or .22 Long ammunition?
- No, it chambers .22 LR only—attempting to fire .22 Short or Long may cause cycling issues or squibs. Stick to high-velocity .22 LR rounds like CCI Mini-Mag for reliable ignition. The cylinder dimensions are optimized for the 0.226-inch rim diameter of LR cartridges.
- Does it fit standard small-frame revolver holsters?
- Yes, its 1.4-inch cylinder diameter and 6.6-inch length match most holsters designed for J-frame or similar revolvers. For exact compatibility, look for models sized for Smith & Wesson 317 or Ruger LCRx. I recommend DeSantis Nemesis pocket holsters for carry applications.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with transit times averaging 3-5 days via UPS or FedEx. Your chosen FFL must email their license before shipment—allow 7-10 total days from order to pickup. Expedited shipping is available for $25 extra.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for functional defects, but you must initiate through their support portal first. Taurus provides a lifetime warranty requiring direct factory service—expect a 4-6 week turnaround for repairs. Non-functional returns incur a 15% restocking fee.
- Does this work with HKS 22-A speedloaders?
- No, the 8-round cylinder requires specific speedloaders like the Safariland R-22 or Tuff Products Quickstrip. HKS models are designed for 6-shot revolvers—using them may cause misalignment or dropped rounds. Plan to spend $18-25 for compatible loading tools.