Taurus GX2 9mm 3.38in Compact 13rd Black (2 Mags)
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About this product
What is the Taurus GX2 9mm? It's a compact, polymer-framed striker-fired pistol designed for everyday carry that balances concealability with a 13+1 round capacity. Manufactured by Taurus, the GX2 ships with two magazines and a 3.38-inch stainless steel barrel. This configuration makes it a direct contender in the subcompact 9mm category, priced significantly below many of its peers.
What is the Taurus GX2 used for?
The Taurus GX2 is built primarily for concealed and everyday carry due to its compact footprint. With an overall length of 6.19 inches and height of 5.1 inches, it disappears under most cover garments. The striker-fired action and consistent trigger pull make it suitable for defensive use, while its Picatinny rail allows for weapon-mounted light attachment for low-light scenarios. Its 13-round magazine capacity provides a practical balance between firepower and grip size.
How does the Taurus GX2 compare to the Smith & Wesson S&W M&P Shield Plus?
The Taurus GX2 offers better value for shooters on a strict budget who can accept a heavier trigger pull. The Shield Plus, at nearly twice the price, provides a superior out-of-the-box trigger with a cleaner break at around 6.5 pounds and includes optics-ready slide cuts on most models. Where the GX2 wins is in pure acquisition cost and its included two magazines versus the Shield Plus's typical single magazine. For the money, the GX2 delivers functional reliability, while the Shield Plus delivers refined performance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the GX2 weighs 22.4 ounces, or 635 grams, which is manageable for all-day carry. Its key dimensions are an overall length of 6.19 inches, a height of 5.1 inches, and a width of 1.25 inches. The 3.38-inch barrel contributes to its 6.19-inch overall length, keeping the firearm compact. When loaded with 13 rounds of 9mm ammunition, the weight increases to approximately 30.2 ounces, a factor to consider for belt carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for competitive shooters or those prioritizing a light, crisp trigger for precision work. The GX2's trigger is serviceable for defensive distances but breaks at a heavy 8 to 9 pounds, which can affect shot placement during slow-fire drills. It's also not ideal for shooters intending to mount a red dot optic directly, as the slide is not milled for one, unlike more modern options like some models in the Stevens 334 rifle series that come optic-ready.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete Taurus GX2 pistol, two 13-round steel magazines, a cable lock, and the owner's manual. The two magazines are a significant advantage, allowing for immediate training with a reload or setting up a primary and a backup magazine. Unlike some competitors that ship with only one magazine, this package gets you to a functional carry setup without an additional $35-50 purchase. The cable lock satisfies basic storage requirements for transport in many jurisdictions.
Is the Taurus GX2 worth it at $250.99?
At $250.99, the Taurus GX2 represents substantial value for a functional, no-frills defensive pistol. You are getting a proven striker-fired system, corrosion-resistant stainless barrel, two magazines, and an accessory rail for under $260. The trade-off is the lack of refinement in the trigger and sights compared to a $500 pistol. For a budget-conscious buyer seeking a reliable tool for concealed carry or home defense, it's a legitimate entry point, much like the Stevens 555 Sporting represents in the over/under shotgun market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Costs $250.99 — nearly half the price of a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
- Includes two 13-round magazines — saves $40 vs buying a second magazine separately
- Weighs 22.4 oz unloaded — manageable for all-day carry compared to heavier metal-frames
- 3.38-inch stainless steel barrel — provides corrosion resistance without added cost
Trade-offs
- Trigger break is heavy at 8-9 lbs — requires deliberate practice for shot placement
- Slide is not optics-ready — adding milled cuts costs $150+ and voids warranty
- Sights are basic white-dot — lack the low-light performance of tritium night sights
- Accessory rail is short (0.9") — may not securely fit some oversized light/laser combos
Key attributes
| upc | 725327636465 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 1-GX2931 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 3.38" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 13 |
| color | Black |
| length | 9.6000 |
| model | GX2 |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 2.0 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Striker Fired |
| safety | Manual Safety |
| shipping weight | 2.05 |
| sights | Blade Front/Adjustable Rear |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| 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 19 holsters?
- No, the Taurus GX2 is not compatible with holsters designed for Glock 19 or other Glock models. Its slide and frame dimensions are unique to the Taurus GX/G2/G3 series. You must use holsters specifically molded for the Taurus GX2, which are widely available from brands like Vedder, DeSantis, and We The People.
- Does it fit in a compact pistol safe?
- Yes, the GX2 will fit most standard compact pistol safes. Its dimensions (6.19" L x 5.1" H x 1.25" W) are comparable to other subcompact 9mms. For reference, it will fit safely in a Vaultek Lifepod 1.0 or a GunVault SV500, provided the safe's interior dimensions exceed 7 inches in length and 6 inches in height to accommodate the pistol and cable lock.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3 to 5 business days from order verification. Transit time varies by carrier and location, but continental US delivery usually adds 2 to 7 additional business days. Always confirm your chosen FFL's acceptance policy and hours before placing your order to avoid delays.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns for defective firearms within 30 days of receipt for inspection and repair or replacement per Taurus's warranty. The firearm must be transferred back through an FFL, and you are responsible for all associated transfer and shipping fees. Non-defective firearms cannot be returned due to federal regulations; all sales are final barring manufacturer defect.
- Does this work with a TLR-7A weapon light?
- Yes, the integrated Picatinny accessory rail on the GX2 is fully compatible with the Streamlight TLR-7A and other lights using a standard 1913 Picatinny mount. The rail section is approximately 0.9 inches long, providing sufficient engagement for a secure fit. The TLR-7A's compact profile aligns well with the GX2's 3.38-inch slide length.