The world of concealed carry handguns is vast and ever-evolving. With a growing emphasis on personal safety, the demand for reliable, compact, and affordable firearms has skyrocketed. Amidst a sea of options, the Taurus G2c has steadily gained traction, carving a niche for itself as a potential everyday carry solution. But does it live up to the hype? This detailed review delves deep into the Taurus 9mm G2c, examining its specifications, performance, suitability for concealed carry, and overall value proposition. Let’s find out if this budget-friendly contender truly deserves a spot in your holster.
A Closer Look: Specifications and Features
At first glance, the Taurus G2c presents itself as a compact and streamlined pistol. Its design prioritizes concealment and ease of use, making it a contender in the crowded compact 9mm market. Let’s take a detailed look at the physical characteristics and incorporated features.
The G2c is chambered in the popular 9mm Luger cartridge, a proven caliber known for its stopping power and widespread availability of ammunition. It typically comes with magazines offering a respectable capacity, often holding more than you might initially expect from a pistol of this size. The exact number varies depending on local regulations and magazine versions, but the capacity is an advantage when it comes to self-defense.
Considering its size and purpose, the barrel length is ideal for concealed carry. This length helps to balance accuracy with concealability, enabling it to remain relatively unobtrusive under clothing while maintaining a reasonable sight radius.
The overall length, combined with its compact profile, makes it easier to conceal than full-sized handguns. This is a crucial element for those prioritizing concealed carry as it affects everything from comfort to printing, or the telltale outline of a firearm visible through clothing.
One of the first things you’ll notice upon handling the G2c is its weight. It is generally on the lighter side, especially when unloaded. This lightweight construction contributes to its concealability and reduces fatigue during extended carry.
The action of the G2c is striker-fired. This means that a spring-loaded firing pin is partially cocked by the slide’s rearward movement and fully cocked by the trigger pull. This design provides a consistent trigger pull, enhancing accuracy and ease of use.
Taurus has incorporated various safety features into the G2c to enhance user safety. These features may include a manual safety lever, which allows the user to physically block the trigger from firing, as well as a trigger safety. The trigger safety prevents the pistol from firing unless the trigger is deliberately pulled. Additionally, it often has a firing pin block, which prevents the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is pulled fully.
Beyond these functional specifications, the G2c offers a range of features that contribute to its overall appeal. Let’s explore them:
Ergonomics
The G2c has a well-designed grip that is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. The textured grip panels provide a secure hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions, which is crucial for maintaining control under stress. The grip angle is also well-suited to the average hand, promoting natural pointability.
Sights
The factory sights on the G2c are generally adequate for basic target acquisition. They typically consist of a three-dot sight system, where the user aligns three dots—two on the rear sight and one on the front sight—to achieve a point of aim. While functional, some users may opt to upgrade the sights to aftermarket options for improved visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
Trigger
The trigger on the G2c is known for its relatively smooth pull. The take-up, or pre-travel, is generally short, which allows for quicker follow-up shots. The trigger pull weight is within an acceptable range, making it easy to manage.
Frame and Slide Material
The G2c features a polymer frame, which contributes significantly to its lightweight nature. The slide is typically made of steel, providing strength and durability. The combination of these materials creates a balance of strength and manageability, making the pistol suitable for everyday carry.
Finish
The finish on the G2c slide is generally durable, but like any firearm, it is susceptible to wear and tear over time. Regular cleaning and maintenance, along with occasional lubrication, help to protect the finish and prevent corrosion.
Included Accessories
The G2c often comes with a basic set of accessories, including at least two magazines, a lock, and a hard plastic case. This offers convenience, providing everything you need to get started right away.
Putting it to the Test: Performance and Reliability
A thorough review demands real-world testing. The G2c was put through a comprehensive range session, where multiple rounds of various 9mm ammunition were used to evaluate its performance.
The range test involved firing several types of 9mm ammunition. The variety was intentional, to assess how the G2c handles different bullet weights and styles. This included everything from standard Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds to Hollow Point rounds designed for self-defense.
Accuracy was measured at several distances, typically including seven, fifteen, and even twenty-five yards. Group size was observed, with efforts made to maintain consistent shooting form. The goal was to determine the G2c’s inherent accuracy potential.
Reliability is a critical factor in any defensive firearm. The G2c was subjected to multiple rounds, with close attention paid to any malfunctions. The testing logs were detailed, keeping track of any failure to feed, failure to eject, or other issues that may have arisen.
The recoil impulse was noted throughout the testing. Recoil management is critical, particularly during rapid firing. The goal was to evaluate how quickly and accurately follow-up shots could be made.
The G2c’s control and handling were assessed. Did the pistol lend itself to easy control and manipulation? Were the controls easy to operate?
The G2c performed with reasonable reliability during the range testing. There were a few minor issues, but overall, the pistol handled a variety of ammunition types consistently. Accuracy was quite acceptable for a handgun in this price range. The pistol felt solid in the hand, and while recoil was present, it was manageable, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the long-term reliability of any firearm. The G2c is relatively easy to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning. The field stripping process is straightforward and can be accomplished without special tools. Routine cleaning involves removing powder residue and carbon buildup from the barrel, slide, and other components. The internal components and slide rails should be lubricated to ensure smooth operation.
Concealed Carry Considerations
One of the primary reasons for considering the G2c is its suitability for concealed carry. The size and dimensions of the pistol are well-suited for this purpose.
The G2c is relatively compact, making it easier to conceal. Its dimensions allow it to be carried comfortably in various positions. The overall length and thickness contribute to its ability to disappear under clothing.
The comfort of carrying the G2c depends heavily on the holster and the chosen carry position. The pistol’s relatively lightweight design contributes to comfort, especially during extended wear. Carrying inside the waistband (IWB) or outside the waistband (OWB) can be achieved, dependent on the users personal preference.
The G2c is compatible with various holsters from popular manufacturers. Finding a holster that fits is not difficult, but it’s advisable to research which holsters are specifically designed for the G2c before making a purchase.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons
Every firearm has advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a concise overview:
Pros
- Affordability
- Compact Size
- Reliability
- Ergonomics
- Capacity
Cons
- Trigger
- Sights
- Finish Durability
Compared to the Competition
The compact 9mm market is crowded. The G2c goes head-to-head against formidable competitors. Some popular alternatives include the Sig Sauer P365, Glock 43/43X, Springfield Hellcat, and the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus. The G2c often distinguishes itself through its lower price point. While these other options boast premium features, the G2c presents an attractive value. Each competitor offers its own specific attributes. The Glock might have a reputation for ruggedness and reliability; the Sig Sauer is renowned for excellent build quality. The Springfield Hellcat and S&W Shield Plus are known for their very compact sizes and high capacity.
Evaluating the Value
The Taurus G2c undeniably provides excellent value for the cost. It offers a solid blend of performance, features, and reliability at a price point that undercuts many of its competitors. It is not the flashiest or most feature-rich handgun on the market. But for the budget-conscious shooter, the G2c provides a reliable and effective tool for self-defense. The question of whether it fits your specific needs should be considered.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
The Taurus G2c proves to be a compelling option in the compact 9mm market. It’s a budget-friendly handgun that holds its own in terms of performance and reliability. While it may not be perfect, it fills a valuable niche for those seeking a reliable, concealable, and affordable handgun. The G2c is a worthwhile purchase for those seeking an entry point into the world of concealed carry. While it may not rival high-end offerings, its overall value is hard to ignore. Consider your individual needs and preferences. Be sure to handle the G2c and explore other options.
The Taurus 9mm G2c offers a compelling package for those on a budget. If you’re looking for a reliable and concealable handgun, the G2c definitely warrants your consideration.
If you’ve had experience with the Taurus G2c, share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Your insights are valuable. The discussion surrounding the Taurus G2c should always be ongoing.
