Taurus G3 9mm 4.00″ SS Slide / Black Frame 1×15 & 1×17
About this product
What is the Taurus G3 9mm 4.00″ SS Slide / Black Frame? It's a full-size striker-fired service pistol built for duty use and range training where controllability and magazine capacity are prioritized. The G3 combines a 4.00-inch stainless steel barrel with a matte stainless slide and textured polymer frame, delivering reliable performance at an accessible price point of $252.99.
What is the Taurus G3 used for?
The Taurus G3 is designed for duty carry, home defense, and high-volume range training where 9mm capacity and shootability matter. With its 15+1 and 17+1 magazine options, it provides ample rounds for extended sessions or defensive scenarios. The integrated Picatinny rail accepts weapon lights like Streamlight TLR-7A or SureFire X300U, making it suitable for low-light conditions.
How does the Taurus G3 compare to the Glock 17?
The Taurus G3 offers better value at $252.99 compared to the Glock 17's $550+ price, though the Glock has superior aftermarket support and a more proven track record in extreme conditions. Where the Glock 17 excels in holster compatibility and parts availability, the G3 provides a comparable shooting experience with its 4.00-inch barrel and 17-round capacity at nearly half the cost.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Taurus G3 weighs 24.8 ounces unloaded and measures 7.3 inches in length, 5.2 inches in height, and 1.25 inches in width. These dimensions place it squarely in the full-size service pistol category, comparable to duty weapons like the Smith & Wesson M&P9 but with a slightly thicker grip profile for improved control.
Who is this NOT for?
The Taurus G3 is not for concealed carry enthusiasts or those seeking a compact platform, as its full-size frame and 7.3-inch length make concealment challenging. It's also not ideal for competitive shooters who require extensive aftermarket customization, as the G3's sight system and trigger lack the upgrade options available on platforms like the the Stevens 334 Rifle.
What's in the box?
The package includes one Taurus G3 pistol, one 15-round magazine, one 17-round magazine, a cable lock, and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a cleaning kit or holster, so budget an additional $20-30 for those essentials. The magazines feature anti-tilt followers and are compatible with earlier Taurus PT111 and G2C models.
Is the Taurus G3 worth it at $252.99?
At $252.99, the Taurus G3 delivers exceptional value for a full-size 9mm with stainless steel slide and dual magazine capacity. It outperforms budget pistols like the SCCY CPX-2 in ergonomics and reliability while costing significantly less than duty staples like the Glock 17. For shooters needing a high-capacity range tool or home defense weapon without breaking the bank, it's a solid investment. Consider pairing it with a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun for a complete firearms portfolio.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel slide resists corrosion—lasts 10,000+ rounds with basic maintenance
- Includes two magazines (15+1 and 17+1)—$40 value compared to single-mag competitors
- 4.00-inch barrel provides 1,150 fps muzzle velocity with 124gr FMJ—excellent for training
Trade-offs
- Trigger pull measures 6.5 lbs with noticeable grit—requires 500-round break-in period
- No optics cut—mill job adds $150-200 and voids warranty
- Limited holster compatibility—only 3 major manufacturers offer G3-specific models
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327625704 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 1-G3B949 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 15 + 1 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 12.3000 |
| model | G3 |
| number of magazines | 2 One 17 rd. and One 15 rd. |
| package height | 1.9 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Striker Fired |
| safety | Striker Block/Trigger |
| shipping weight | 2.3 |
| sights | Adjustable Sights |
| sights type | Fixed Front/Adj Rear |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock sights?
- No, the Taurus G3 uses proprietary sight cuts that are not compatible with Glock pattern sights. You'll need Taurus-specific aftermarket options from brands like AmeriGlo or TruGlo, which typically cost $60-90 for a set.
- Does it fit in Glock 17 holsters?
- Most Glock 17 holsters will not fit the Taurus G3 due to differences in slide width and trigger guard geometry. You'll need a dedicated G3 holster from brands like Black Rhino Concealment or We The People, which take 2-3 weeks to ship.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms shipping to an FFL dealer typically takes 5-7 business days once processing is complete. All transfers require background check completion, which can add 1-3 days depending on state regulations.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms are non-returnable due to federal regulations once transferred through an FFL. I recommend handling one at a local dealer first—the grip circumference measures 5.7 inches, which suits medium to large hands best.
- Does this work with SilencerCo Octane 9 suppressors?
- Yes, the Taurus G3's 4.00-inch barrel has ½x28 threads compatible with SilencerCo Octane 9 and other standard 9mm suppressors. You'll need a fixed barrel spacer for safe operation, adding $25 to the setup.