Understanding Taurus Firearms and Magazines
The world of firearms can be complex, and for owners of Taurus handguns and rifles, understanding the intricacies of magazine compatibility is paramount. Ensuring you have the right magazines not only guarantees a smooth and safe shooting experience but also protects the integrity of your firearm. This article dives deep into the Taurus magazine landscape, providing a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of magazines and find the perfect fit for your Taurus firearm.
Taurus, a globally recognized name in the firearms industry, has built a reputation for producing a wide array of handguns and rifles. From compact concealed carry pistols to full-sized duty weapons, Taurus offers options to suit diverse needs and preferences. Their commitment to affordability and innovation has made them a popular choice for both seasoned shooters and those new to the world of firearms.
Central to the reliable operation of any Taurus firearm is the magazine. This critical component holds the ammunition and feeds it into the chamber, readying it for firing. Using the wrong magazine, or a magazine that is poorly made or incompatible, can lead to a host of problems, ultimately affecting your safety and enjoyment of the firearm.
Why is using the right magazine so important? Safety is the most important factor. A magazine that doesn’t fit properly can lead to malfunctions, including failures to feed or eject, which could pose a serious risk. Beyond safety, the magazine directly impacts the reliability and functionality of your Taurus. Properly designed and fitted magazines work seamlessly, ensuring the smooth cycling of ammunition. Furthermore, the right magazine contributes to accuracy. A magazine that fits correctly and feeds ammunition consistently will help you achieve better groupings and improved overall shooting performance.
Understanding the fundamental parts of a magazine is essential. The magazine body, typically constructed from steel, polymer, or a combination of both, houses the ammunition. The magazine spring provides the force necessary to push rounds upward. The follower guides the cartridges up the magazine. The baseplate seals the bottom of the magazine, and the feed lips at the top are crucial for controlling the release of each round into the firearm’s chamber.
The Taurus Magazine Compatibility Guide
Finding the correct magazine for your Taurus firearm can sometimes feel like navigating a complex maze. The good news is that we’ve compiled a compatibility chart that will simplify the process. The key to using this chart is understanding its structure and what each piece of information means.
This compatibility chart lists a wide range of popular Taurus models. For each model, you will find the following information. The “Taurus Model” column specifies the exact model name. The “Caliber” column tells you the correct ammunition size the firearm is designed to use, which must be matched to compatible magazines. The “Magazine Type” describes the general design, such as single-stack or double-stack, which often influences overall capacity and dimensions. The “Compatible Magazines” column lists the specific magazines, both OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and compatible aftermarket brands, that are known to function properly with the corresponding Taurus model. The “Notes” column provides important details about specific features, magazine capacities, or other relevant information.
Let’s begin the compatibility overview with the Taurus handguns. We will include some of the most widely used models, helping you select the best magazines. This chart is a guide and it is always recommended to double check compatibility with the manufacturer.
Taurus G Series
Taurus Model: G2c, G3, G3c, G3XL
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Type: Double-Stack
Compatible Magazines: Taurus OEM, Mec-Gar, ProMag
Notes: Magazine capacity varies depending on the model and local laws; 12-round, 15-round, and 17-round options available for the G3. Some aftermarket magazines may require minor adjustments for optimal fit.
Taurus G Series (Continued)
Taurus Model: G2s
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Type: Double-Stack
Compatible Magazines: Taurus OEM
Notes: Magazines have 12-round capacity.
Taurus TX22 Series
Taurus Model: TX22, TX22 Compact
Caliber: .22 LR
Magazine Type: Double-Stack
Compatible Magazines: Taurus OEM
Notes: Highly reliable .22LR magazines; 10-round and 16-round capacity options, depending on the model.
Taurus PT Series
Taurus Model: PT111 G2, PT140 G2
Caliber: 9mm, .40 S&W
Magazine Type: Double-Stack
Compatible Magazines: Taurus OEM, Mec-Gar
Notes: Some aftermarket magazines may not be fully compatible.
Taurus 856
Taurus Model: 856
Caliber: .38 Special
Magazine Type: (Revolver – Magazines are not used)
Compatible Magazines: N/A
Notes: (Revolver)
Factors That Play into Magazine Compatibility
Several factors influence magazine compatibility, and understanding these nuances is vital for making informed choices. The caliber is the first consideration. Your Taurus firearm is designed to function with a specific cartridge size. Matching the correct caliber is non-negotiable. Using the wrong caliber in a magazine will not only result in malfunctions but can also be dangerous.
Magazine type refers to the design, most notably the single-stack versus double-stack configuration. Single-stack magazines hold rounds in a single column, while double-stack magazines hold rounds in two columns. The Taurus G series pistols and the TX22 are double-stack. The magazine type will influence capacity and dimensions.
Model generations and variations can also affect magazine compatibility. Taurus, like other manufacturers, may make small changes to its models over time. These updates could lead to subtle differences in magazine well design, potentially impacting compatibility. Always identify the exact model and generation of your Taurus firearm to ensure you are purchasing the right magazines.
The aftermarket magazine market offers options from various manufacturers. These options may be a more affordable choice. The pros of these magazine choices may include competitive pricing and wider availability. The cons may include reduced reliability, fit issues, and potential quality inconsistencies. Always research an aftermarket magazine before purchase. Reviews and real-world testing can help you gauge quality and compatibility.
Tips for Making the Right Magazine Choice and Proper Use
Purchasing your magazine should be a conscious decision. OEM magazines are produced by Taurus and specifically designed for the firearms they are made for. They are often considered the most reliable option. Aftermarket options can be more budget-friendly, offering a range of capacities and designs. Researching brands and models is key. Consider the reviews of others.
Before committing to a magazine purchase, confirm its fit and function. Check for any gaps or binding when inserting the magazine into your firearm. It should lock securely into place without excessive force. Once inserted, the magazine should not wobble.
Proper magazine maintenance contributes to reliability. Clean your magazines regularly to remove dirt, debris, and powder residue. Check the magazine body and the feed lips for damage. Store your magazines in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them loaded for extended periods, as this can potentially weaken the spring.
When using a new magazine, it’s a good idea to break it in. Load the magazine fully and allow it to sit for a few days or a week. Then, unload and reload it several times. This process will help to loosen the spring and ensure reliable feeding.
Troubleshooting Common Magazine Issues
Even with proper care and selection, you may encounter magazine-related issues. Knowing how to troubleshoot these issues can save you time and frustration. A common issue is the “failure to feed” where the rounds get stuck. This can be caused by a weak spring, a damaged feed lip, or a dirty magazine. A failure to eject results in a spent casing remaining in the chamber. This may be a symptom of a weak extractor. A magazine that doesn’t lock in properly indicates a problem. Ensure the magazine is fully seated and that the magazine catch isn’t obstructed.
These problems are common with magazines. They may be caused by dirt or poor maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right magazines for your Taurus firearm is essential for a safe, reliable, and enjoyable shooting experience. This article provided a comprehensive Taurus magazine compatibility chart and detailed guide to help you navigate the complexities of the magazine market. Remember the importance of understanding the different models, matching calibers, considering magazine types, and conducting proper maintenance.
Always double-check the compatibility before purchasing new magazines. A little research and care can save you time and money. By making informed decisions, you can ensure that your Taurus firearm performs at its best, allowing you to shoot with confidence and enjoy all that it offers.
