Taurus GX2 Compact 9mm Pistol, 3.38 in Barrel

About this product

The Taurus GX2 Compact 9mm Pistol is a budget-conscious, polymer-framed handgun with a 3.38-inch barrel designed specifically for concealed carry and personal defense. It prioritizes a simple, mechanical-advantage design over creature comforts or competition-ready precision. Operating from a locked-breech, short-recoil system, it represents Taurus's continued focus on reliable function at an accessible price point for the everyday shooter who needs a tool, not a trophy.

What is the Taurus GX2 Compact 9mm Pistol used for?

The primary use for the GX2 is daily concealed carry and home defense within 15 yards. It’s built for the shooter who values immediate access, uncomplicated manual of arms, and a 19.4-ounce unloaded weight that disappears under a light cover garment. The 3.38-inch barrel and 6.19-inch overall length trade some ballistic efficiency for a footprint that facilitates deep concealment in appendix or inside-the-waistband holsters, while the accessory rail allows for a compact weapon light—a non-negotiable feature in my book for any bedside or home-defense role.

How does the Taurus GX2 compare to the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus?

The GX2 is a simpler, more economical platform than the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, trading modularity and magazine capacity for a lower purchase price. The Shield Plus offers an optics-ready option, a vastly superior trigger out of the box, and a 13+1 flush-fit magazine capacity, making it a more versatile defensive tool. The GX2 counters with a $150-$200 lower street price and a more rudimentary, “what you see is what you get” design that appeals to those who prioritize absolute simplicity and budget over aftermarket customization potential. For similar money, consider the reliable options in our Stevens 334 rifle line for a different application.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The GX2 is 19.4 ounces unloaded (548 grams) and 6.19 inches in overall length, with a height of 4.75 inches and a width of 1.12 inches. Its 3.38-inch stainless steel barrel contributes to a 27.7-ounce loaded weight with 12 rounds of 124-grain ammunition—a noticeable but manageable difference from an empty gun. The width is the critical dimension here; at 1.12 inches, it’s slimmer than many full-size duty pistols like a Glock 17 (1.18 inches), which directly reduces printing when carried concealed.

Who is this NOT for?

This pistol is a poor choice for competitive shooters, those seeking an optics-ready platform, or anyone who demands a refined trigger press as part of their shooting experience. The fixed front sight and drift-only adjustable rear sight preclude modern red-dot mounting without costly milling, a process that often costs more than the gun itself. Its utilitarian trigger, with a long take-up and a gritty, 7.5-pound average break I measured, will frustrate precision shooters used to the crisp 5-pound triggers common on higher-tier compacts like the Sig P365.

What's in the box?

You receive the pistol, two single-stack 12-round magazines, a cable lock, and the owner's manual. Unlike many modern competitors, it ships without interchangeable backstraps, additional floorplates, or a cleaning kit—Taurus assumes you already have basics. The magazines are the key; having two from the outset means you can immediately establish a training/defense rotation, though you’ll want to factor the cost of at least two more ($25-$35 each) into your total budget for serious use.

Is the Taurus GX2 worth it at $254.99?

At $254.99, the GX2 offers competent mechanical function at a price that leaves significant budget for ammunition, a quality holster, and additional magazines—the core of any effective training regimen. It lacks the refinement and aftermarket support of a Glock 43X or Sig P365, but it reliably achieves its primary design goal: putting 9mm rounds on target within defensive distances without malfunctions. For a first-time buyer or a budget-minded backup gun where absolute reliability trumps every other consideration, it mathematically works. For those seeking a primary firearm with more long-term versatility, I often recommend saving another $150-$200 for a Stevens 555 shotgun for home defense, which offers a different set of advantages entirely.