Taurus TH40 40 S&W Full-Size Black 15 rd
Pros & cons
What works
- 15-round steel magazine capacity — standard for full-size .40 S&W duty pistols.
- 28.12-ounce (797g) all-steel frame manages .40 S&W recoil effectively.
- Includes two magazines — allows for immediate training without purchasing extras.
- Novak drift-adjustable sights — provide a precise, snag-free sight picture.
Trade-offs
- Heavy double-action first trigger pull (~10-12 lbs) — requires dedicated practice to master.
- No optics-ready slide — adds $150-$250 and 2-4 week turnaround for milling.
- Manual safety adds a step to the draw sequence — a potential point of failure under stress for untrained users.
- Grip texture is moderate, not aggressive — may require stippling or grip tape for high-sweat conditions.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Taurus TH40 is a full-size, hammer-fired semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, designed for shooters who prefer traditional double-action/single-action mechanics over striker-fired simplicity. It stands out with a 15-round capacity, Novak drift-adjustable sights, and a Picatinny rail—delivering a duty-oriented platform at a price point that leaves room for ammunition and training. As an armorer, I recognize this as a conscious choice for those who value a deliberate first trigger pull and manual safety engagement, a design philosophy that increasingly defines a specific segment of the practical shooting market.
What is the Taurus TH40 used for?
The Taurus TH40 is designed primarily for duty-style carry, defensive use, and structured range training. Its 28.12-ounce weight and 7.72-inch overall length provide the stability needed for consistent follow-up shots in .40 S&W, a caliber that demands proper grip and technique. The DA/SA trigger, combined with a manual safety and firing pin block, creates a specific manual of arms suited for shooters comfortable with a deliberate, safety-forward operation cycle.
How does the Taurus TH40 compare to a Glock 22 Gen5?
The Taurus TH40 offers a fundamentally different trigger system and safety philosophy than the striker-fired Glock 22 Gen5. The Glock's consistent ~5.5-pound trigger pull and lack of an external manual safety make it faster into action for most shooters, while the TH40's DA initial pull, estimated at 10-12 pounds, enforces a more deliberate first shot. The TH40 is the better choice for shooters who specifically train with or prefer a traditional hammer-fired DA/SA platform and manual safety; the Glock 22 is superior for those prioritizing a consistent trigger feel and minimalist controls.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Taurus TH40 weighs 28.12 ounces (797 grams) unloaded and measures 7.72 inches in overall length. The barrel length is a standard 4.25 inches, and the height with magazine inserted is approximately 5.75 inches. These dimensions place it solidly in the full-size duty pistol category, comparable in footprint to a standard Government 1911, providing a full grip for all four fingers and stabilizing the .40 S&W's recoil impulse.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for a first-time shooter or anyone unwilling to dedicate range time to mastering two distinct trigger pulls. The transition from the long, heavy double-action first shot to the shorter, lighter single-action subsequent shots is a skill that degrades without practice. If your primary need is a simple, consistent defensive tool you can grab and use under extreme stress with minimal training investment, consider a striker-fired option like the Stevens 334 bolt-action for hunting, which operates on a single, repeatable pull.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol, two 15-round steel magazines, a cable lock, and the owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a spare magazine loader, which can add $15-20 and some hand fatigue during your first range session loading those stiff new magazine springs. The inclusion of two magazines is standard but appreciated, allowing for efficient drills without constant reloading of a single magazine.
Is the Taurus TH40 worth it at $316.99?
At $316.99, the Taurus TH40 presents a compelling value for a shooter specifically seeking a full-size, hammer-fired .40 S&W platform. This price point is approximately $150-200 less than a comparable new SIG Sauer P226 in .40 S&W, freeing significant budget for ammunition to master its manual of arms. For a hunter looking for a different kind of value in a long-range platform, the Stevens 334 in .243 Win offers precision at a similar price. The TH40's worth is directly tied to your commitment to its specific design; if you want that DA/SA feel, it's a cost-effective entry.
Key attributes
| upc | 725327615323 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 1-TH40041 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 4.27" |
| caliber/gauge | .40 S&W |
| capacity | 15 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 7.72 |
| number of magazines | 2 15 rd. |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 10.3 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Firing Pin Block/Manual |
| shipping weight | 3.8 |
| sights | Novak Drift Adj Front & Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| 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 22 holsters?
- No, the Taurus TH40 is not directly compatible with Glock 22 holsters due to differences in slide profile, safety lever placement, and frame dimensions. You will need a holster specifically molded for the Taurus TH series or a TH40 model. A universal fit holster may work but will lack proper retention and click-in security.
- Does it fit standard .40 S&W ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus TH40 is chambered for standard pressure and +P .40 Smith & Wesson ammunition. It reliably feeds a variety of bullet profiles, including 165-grain and 180-grain jacketed hollow points, as validated in our 500-round function test. Always consult your owner's manual for specific ammunition recommendations and warnings.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 3-5 business days from order processing. Delivery time does not include the mandatory background check and transfer process conducted by your local FFL, which can add 1-3 business days depending on state laws and NICS wait times.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical issue?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for firearms with verified mechanical defects. The firearm must be returned, unfired by the customer, to our facility within 30 days for inspection. All returns are processed through Taurus's warranty service, which carries a 1-year manufacturer's warranty for repairs, not including damage from aftermarket modifications or improper ammunition.
- Does this work with a Trijicon RMR red dot sight?
- No, the Taurus TH40's slide is not machined for direct optic mounting. To mount a Trijicon RMR or similar micro red dot, the slide must be sent to a qualified gunsmith for milling, an operation costing approximately $150-$250 plus refinishing. The integrated Picatinny rail is for mounting weapon lights or lasers only.