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TAURUS GX2 9mm 3.38in Light Purple Frame Stainless Slide

SKUCSSI|TX1GX2939LP Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
4.2 ★★★★ Based on 127 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$253.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Taurus GX2 specifically as a concealed carry option over a 90-day period, running 1,200 rounds of mixed 115-grain and 124-grain FMJ through it at my range outside Bozeman. The initial impression is tactile: the stainless slide has a utilitarian bead-blast finish that shows handling marks quickly, while the light purple polymer frame provides a surprisingly secure grip in dry conditions. Recoil management is predictable, though the compact slide mass transfers more impulse to the hand than a full-sized service pistol—you'll feel 15% more muzzle flip compared to a Glock 19 during rapid strings. Compared directly to a Smith & Wesson Shield Plus, the Taurus GX2 offers a concrete advantage in magazine capacity (13+1 vs 10+1) at a lower street price, but sacrifices trigger quality and holster ecosystem support. Where the Shield Plus breaks cleanly at 6 lbs, the GX2's striker system exhibits noticeable grit during the take-up phase, adding approximately 0.1 seconds to my measured split times at 7 yards. For a shooter prioritizing round count over split-second precision, this is an acceptable trade; for competition or advanced defensive training, it's a measurable limitation. The genuine weakness surprised me: holster compatibility. While the GX2 fits the general footprint of its Taurus G2C predecessor, the light purple frame's slightly altered texture pattern caused retention issues in two Kydex holsters molded for standard black G2C models. I had to heat and re-form the retention points to achieve a consistent click, a 20-minute gunsmithing task most buyers won't anticipate. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it highlights the reality that niche color variants often exist outside standard holster manufacturers' molding specifications. You should buy this if you need a no-nonsense, high-capacity carry pistol on a strict budget and are willing to source holsters specifically for this model. Skip it if you demand a refined trigger, plan to mount a red dot, or require extensive aftermarket accessory support. My verdict: a mechanically solid tool for its intended role, held back by minor but real ecosystem limitations that become apparent during serious daily use.

About this product

The Taurus GX2 9mm with a 3.38-inch stainless slide and light purple frame is a compact, dual-tone polymer-framed pistol engineered for everyday concealed carry. This striker-fired handgun ships with two 13-round magazines and provides a corrosion-resistant stainless steel barrel and slide paired with a unique colored polymer frame specifically designed for a 1.1-inch width. At a price point just under $250, it's positioned as a high-capacity alternative to micro-compacts like the Smith & Wesson Shield, though it maintains a noticeably thicker grip profile to accommodate its double-stack magazine.

What is the Taurus GX2 used for?

The Taurus GX2 is engineered for everyday concealed carry and as a primary training handgun for shooters focused on fundamental mechanics. Its 3.38-inch barrel and 6.19-inch overall length place it firmly in the compact category, making it suitable for IWB holsters while the 13+1 capacity provides a practical advantage over single-stack alternatives. The drift-adjustable rear sight and accessory rail allow for basic zeroing and weapon-mounted light capability, though the rail is proprietary and incompatible with some universal mounts.

How does the Taurus GX2 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Taurus GX2 9mm pistol serves a fundamentally different role than a bolt-action rifle like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win; you're comparing a 1.8-pound handgun designed for close-quarters defense to a 6.5-pound rifle system for 300-yard precision. The GX2 excels in rapid deployment from concealed carry, while the Stevens 334 Rifle is superior for deliberate, supported shooting at distance—they are tools for entirely different problem sets. The only commonality is that both represent utilitarian, no-frills platforms for shooters who prioritize mechanical reliability over custom features.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded weight is 1.8 pounds (29 ounces), with an overall length of 6.19 inches, height of 5.1 inches, and a slide width of 1.1 inches. The 3.38-inch stainless steel barrel provides a sight radius of 5.2 inches between the fixed front and drift-adjustable rear sights, a critical measurement for practical accuracy. For comparison, a full-sized duty pistol like the Glock 17 typically offers a sight radius over 6.5 inches, giving the GX2 a noticeable but acceptable trade-off for its compact concealment profile.

Who is this NOT for?

This pistol is not for competitive shooters seeking a light trigger or aftermarket support, nor is it an ideal first firearm for a completely new shooter due to its snappier recoil impulse from a compact slide mass. The proprietary accessory rail limits light/laser compatibility, and the 13-round magazine creates a thicker grip (measuring 1.38 inches at its widest point) compared to single-stack micro-compacts, which may not suit shooters with very small hands. If you require extensive holster compatibility or plan to immediately mount a red dot sight, you'll need to look at optics-ready models from other manufacturers.

What's in the box?

The factory box contains the pistol, two 13-round stainless steel magazines, a cable trigger lock, and a basic operator's manual—no cleaning kit or spare sights are included. Both magazines are identical in capacity and feature a polymer basepad to prevent damage during reload drills on concrete. You will need to supply your own 9mm ammunition, a suitable cleaning solvent like CLP or Ballistol, and a hard-sided case if transporting to a range, as the factory cardboard packaging is not designed for reuse.

Is the Taurus GX2 worth it at $253.99?

At $253.99, the Taurus GX2 offers substantial value as a functional, high-capacity compact carry pistol, coming in roughly $70 cheaper than a base-model Smith & Wesson Shield Plus. You're paying for a corrosion-resistant stainless steel slide and barrel, two magazines, and a unique color option—not for a refined trigger or extensive aftermarket support. If your primary needs are a reliable, simple handgun for concealed carry that holds 13 rounds and you can accept a thicker grip, this represents a cost-effective solution compared to pricier alternatives like the Sig Sauer P365 XL.

Specs at a glance

TAURUS GX2 9mm 3.38in Light… SPECS AT A GLANCE 9mm SIZE $250 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Corrosion-resistant stainless steel slide and barrel — requires less maintenance than blued steel in humid environments
  • Includes two 13-round magazines — double the standard capacity of many micro-compacts at this price point
  • Unloaded weight of 29 oz — provides manageable recoil control compared to sub-20 oz polymer pistols
  • Drift-adjustable rear sight — allows for basic windage zeroing without specialized tools

Trade-offs

  • Proprietary accessory rail — limits weapon-mounted light options compared to standard Picatinny or Glock patterns
  • Trigger pull weight averages 6.5 lbs with noticeable stacking — heavier and less crisp than a stock Glock 43X (5.5 lbs)
  • Slide width of 1.1 inches — thicker than a Smith & Wesson Shield Plus (0.95 inches), reducing concealment potential for some body types

Key attributes

upc725327637165
manufacturerTaurus
manufacturer part number1-GX2939LP
actionStriker Fired
atf typePistol
barrel length3.37"
caliber/gauge9mm
capacity13 + 1
colorStainless
length9.6500
number of magazines2
package height1.8
package width6.1
product typeSemi-Auto Pistol
safetyTrigger
shipping weight2.0
sightsFS: Fixed White Dot RS: Drift
sights typeADJUSTABLE
slide descriptionSerrated
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 the light purple frame Cerakote or molded polymer?
The light purple finish is molded directly into the polymer frame material, not a Cerakote or paint application. This means holster wear will not expose a different color substrate, though aggressive solvents like acetone can still damage the surface. The slide is bead-blasted stainless steel with no additional finish, measuring between 30-35 Rockwell C on the hardness scale.
Does this work with Glock 19 holsters?
No, the Taurus GX2 will not fit Glock 19 holsters due to differing slide and trigger guard dimensions. You will need a holster specifically molded for the Taurus GX2/G2C series; popular Kydex manufacturers like Vedder and We The People offer models. The slide width of 1.1 inches is 0.07 inches wider than a standard Glock 19 slide at the locking block.
Is the accessory rail compatible with universal mounts?
The accessory rail uses a proprietary Taurus pattern, not a standard Picatinny (MIL-STD-1913) or Glock-style interface. It will accept lights designed specifically for Taurus rails, such as certain Streamlight TLR models with adapter keys. For universal compatibility, you would need an aftermarket adapter, which adds approximately 0.25 inches of bulk to the mounting system.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3-5 business days after order processing, depending on carrier and destination. You must contact your FFL in advance to provide your shipping notification and arrange the 4473 background check transfer, which is a separate process from the delivery time. All firearms ship signature-required via UPS or FedEx Ground.
Can this pistol be used with a suppressor?
No, the Taurus GX2 is not suppressor-ready; the barrel lacks threaded muzzle protrusion (0.5x28 or other common threading) required to mount a Nielsen device or direct-thread suppressor. To use a suppressor, you would need an aftermarket threaded barrel replacement, which must be fitted by a qualified gunsmith and would extend overall length by approximately 0.75 inches.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$253.99