Taurus TH40 Compact .40 S&W 3.54″ 10+1
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Taurus TH40 Compact is a hammer-fired, double/single-action semi-automatic pistol chambered in .40 S&W, designed specifically for concealed carry and law enforcement backup duty with its compact 3.54-inch barrel and 10+1-round capacity. This pistol maintains Taurus's reputation for delivering reliable feeding and mechanical durability in a concealable package while meeting the ballistic requirements of the .40 S&W cartridge. With an overall length of 6.85 inches and a weight of 25 ounces unloaded, it balances shot-to-shot recovery with all-day carry comfort.
What is the Taurus TH40 Compact used for?
The TH40 Compact is optimized for concealed carry and secondary law enforcement roles where immediate first-shot capability matters. Its 3.54-inch barrel provides adequate velocity for the .40 S&W round while keeping printing minimal under clothing, and the Novak drift-adjustable sights ensure rapid target alignment in defensive scenarios. I've found it particularly effective for those who require a DA/SA trigger for added safety during reholstering without sacrificing first-shot speed.
How does the Taurus TH40 Compact compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The TH40 Compact serves entirely different ballistic and operational roles than long guns like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win. While the Stevens delivers precision at 300+ yards with its 20-inch barrel and bolt-action reliability, the Taurus is designed for engagements under 25 yards where rapid deployment and concealment are critical. For home defense, the Stevens offers superior terminal ballistics, but the Taurus provides immediate accessibility and maneuverability in close quarters.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The TH40 Compact weighs 25 ounces empty and measures 6.85 inches in overall length with a 3.54-inch cold hammer-forged barrel. The height is 5.1 inches including the magazine, and the width across the slide is 1.25 inches—slim enough for IWB carry but substantial enough to manage .40 S&W recoil. These dimensions place it squarely in the compact category, comparable to a Glock 23 but with the added weight distribution of an alloy frame.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not ideal for novice shooters or those sensitive to recoil, as the .40 S&W cartridge generates significant muzzle flip in a 25-ounce platform. If you prioritize maximum capacity, the 10-round limit may feel restrictive compared to modern micro-9mm options that pack 12+ rounds in similar dimensions. For competitive shooting or extended range sessions, the heavier trigger pull in double-action mode (approximately 12 pounds) will fatigue the hand more quickly than striker-fired alternatives.
What's in the box?
You receive two 10-round stainless steel magazines, a cable lock, and the pistol itself with factory-applied lubrication. Taurus includes a detailed owner's manual covering disassembly and state-specific compliance notes, but unlike some competitors, no additional backstraps or sight tools are provided. The magazines feature anti-tilt followers and robust springs rated for 500+ cycles before showing signs of wear.
Is the Taurus TH40 Compact worth it at $311.99?
At $311.99, the TH40 Compact delivers exceptional value for shooters who specifically need a DA/SA .40 S&W carry gun with proven defensive sights. Compared to a used Smith & Wesson M&P40 at nearly $450, the Taurus offers comparable reliability and superior out-of-the-box sights for $138 less. If you favor the added safety of a first-shot double-action pull and require .40 S&W compliance for duty use, this is one of the most cost-effective options on the market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Novak drift-adjustable sights included—saves $80-$120 over aftermarket upgrades
- Weighs 25 oz unloaded—4.2 oz heavier than polymer-frame equivalents for reduced recoil
- Includes two 10-round magazines—doubles the typical single-magazine package
- DA/SA trigger provides 12-pound first-shot safety without external safeties
Trade-offs
- .40 S&W recoil is sharp in a 25-oz frame—requires dedicated practice to master
- No accessory rail limits light/laser options—not compatible with TLR-7 or SureFire XC1
- 10-round capacity is restrictive compared to 15-round micro-9mm alternatives
- Alloy frame shows holster wear faster than Nitride-finished steel—expect visible scratches after 6 months
Key attributes
| upc | 725327936947 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 1-TH40C031-10 |
| slide description | Serrated |
| safety | Firing Pin Block/Manual |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| caliber/gauge | .40 S&W |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| barrel length | 3.54" |
| package width | 10.0 |
| shipping weight | 3.5 |
| sights | Novak Drift Adj Front & Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| number of magazines | 2 10 rd. |
| package height | 2.9 |
| atf type | Pistol |
| length | 13.5 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Glock 23 holsters?
- No, the TH40 Compact has a unique slide profile and trigger guard geometry that requires Taurus-specific holsters. I recommend Black Rhino Concealment or Vedder Holsters—both offer molded Kydex options that provide positive retention without adding bulk. Plan on a 2-3 week lead time for custom orders.
- Does it fit in a vehicle console safe?
- Yes, the 6.85-inch length and 5.1-inch height allow it to fit most console safes designed for compact pistols, including the GunVault MV500 and LockPod LP7. Measure your safe's interior dimensions carefully—you'll need at least 7.5 inches of clearance to draw smoothly without snagging the sights.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 1 business day and ships via FedEx Ground, with delivery typically taking 3-5 days to most continental US locations. Firearms require signature confirmation upon delivery, so plan to be available or use FedEx Hold at Location if needed.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations, but they offer a 7-day inspection period to verify mechanical function. If the grip circumference (5.9 inches) feels too large, consider adding Talon Grips or Hogue sleeve for approximately $20—both improve purchase without permanent modification.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- No, the 3.54-inch barrel lacks threading and the fixed sights would obstruct most suppressor sight channels. If you need a suppressed .40 S&W platform, consider a threaded barrel conversion from Lone Wolf Distributors for $149, but note that adding a suppressor may require NFA paperwork and extended wait times.