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Taurus TH9 Review & Buyer’s Guide preview image
Jan 15 2024
12 min read

Taurus TH9 Review & Buyer’s Guide

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Taurus TH9 Pistol Taurus TH9

When looking for a good CCW, you might have noticed that budget self-defense pistols often pile up around a certain price point.

We’re talking Taurus models, and they’re definitely more noticeable than the rest with their attractive price tag, like the Taurus G2C, for example.

These “low hanging fruit” handguns can sometimes surprise with their features and characteristics—one such model is the Taurus TH9.

I’m not much of a fan, but I’ve had the chance to coordinate a Taurus TH9 review, and I can say that it has all the essential features of a full-size 9mm, while maintaining a polite price tag.

In today’s review, I’ll talk about the Taurus TH9 9mm handgun, its main features, pros & cons, some Taurus TH9 upgrades and ammo recommendations, and I’ll also compare some similar models for your convenience.

Taurus handguns are well-known for their cheap pistols with somewhat high-end features, but is the TH9 good enough to trust your life with it?

Let’s check it out.

Taurus’ Idea Behind the TH9

Taurus TH9 review

Forjas Taurus (bull’s forge in Brazilian) initially began selling Colt, S&W, and Beretta clones before they went with their own firearm exports and have been producing handguns on a wide market for decades now.

I bet you’ve heard about some of the bad rep of their products and their customer service. Sometimes their products don’t deliver what’s advertised, but, for better or worse, that’s part of their brand by now. Personally, I think that their Taurus GX4 is a fantastic EDC handgun for a great price.

They established their name as a “budget handgun” giant, and some folks don’t seem to understand that you get what you pay for. That’s what the Taurus warranty is for.

That being said, the atrocious customer service is due to the fact that this Brazilian manufacturer handles all kinds of transactions. Not defending anyone here, but I do believe that could be quite a handful for their tech support at times.

Now, the TH9 is the Taurus’ newest 9mm DA/SA addition to their arsenal of budget handguns.

It’s an upgraded, more aesthetically pleasing handgun that Taurus hopes will replace its predecessor, the strikingly similar Taurus PT-809.

I’m a firm believer in the “don’t knock it till you try it” policy, and the enhanced features of the TH9 can be felt within a couple of rounds in.

Let’s see how it works.

Taurus TH9 Review

Specifications

ManufacturerTaurus
ModelTH9
Caliber9mm luger, .40 S&W
ActionSemi-automatic; Hammer-fired DA/SA
Capacity17+1
Trigger pull12 rounds single-action / 6.5 pounds double-action
SafetyManual
Barrel length4.47 inches
Overall length7.72 inches
Overall height6 inches
Overall width1.3 inches
Unloaded weight28.2 ounces
GripsPolymer
Front SightAdjustable Novak Drift
Rear SightAdjustable Novak Drift
SlideCarbon steel
AccessoriesPicatinny rail (Mil-STD 1913); Interchangeable backstraps; 2 17-round magazines; Lockable plastic case
FinishMatte black

Design, Grips, and Ergonomics

Taurus TH9 grip (2)
Taurus TH9 grip
Taurus TH9 grip

As you can see by the Taurus TH9 specs, the Taurus TH9 is a polymer handgun with a 4.2-inch carbon steel barrel. It comes in either the 9mm Luger, or the .40 S&W caliber.

There are multiple color options like black, gray, cyan/black, and FDE. Additionally, the Taurus TH9c with a 13-round capacity is a compact version that’s lower in round capacity, but much easier to conceal, carefully designed for CCW.

At 1.3 inches, the TH9 is a bit wide for concealed carry, but the double-stack magazine has 17 rounds for you to shoot. The Taurus TH40, in the .40 S&W caliber, has an 11-round magazine.

The overall design is awfully similar to the hammer-fired Taurus PT-809, the same one that was blueprinted on. The TH9 has a slightly grooved grip for your fingers, so it’s designed to fit medium to larger hands, and the slide is pretty easy to rack.

In comparison to most full-sized 9mm handguns, it’s a bit of a Goldilocks. For example, the Glock G17 has a 4.5-inch barrel and a 28-ounce weight for recoil soaking, so the TH9 could also be a great pistol for beginners.

As for the grip texture, it’s not as aggressive and textured as the checkered grips on the 809, so it could be pleasant for most. The grips are customizable, and with your purchase, you get additional interchangeable backstraps (for the full-size purchase only) for added comfort.

One more thing about internal parts: the guiding rod is plastic, so I recommend you replace it with a stainless steel guide rod by Lakeline LLC if you want smoother recoil.

Trigger, Accuracy, and Ammo Recommendation

The TH9 is a solid choice if you’re a beginner wanting to try out a hammer-fired 9mm. The DA/SA trigger pull is around 12 pounds when single-action and 6.5 pounds double-action.

Hammer-fired pistols typically feel a bit crisper, with a cleaner break than, for example, 1911 handguns.

Since Taurus knows that the budget guns they manufacture are prone to misfires, they designed this DA/SA mechanism on most of their budget series so that if it doesn’t fire the first time, it would fire the second round.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wTtTgcumto

Taurus made it so that it would feed via the slide’s spring pressure, cycle, and lock the slide open once it’s empty. It’s a hold-open on the last shot, and I’m sure most would appreciate it.

I ran some Fiocchi JHP 115-grain rounds and Hornady American Gunner +P XTP-HP 124-grain rounds through it just to see the three-round slide locking mechanism.

I was hoping to see some misfires to justify the bad rep, but after 50 rounds, I couldn’t push my luck. In my opinion, even if it does misfire, one wouldn’t know if it’s the gun or the ammo box.

Though it can eat lots of 9mm types, the trigger might make your accuracy sloppy. Keep in mind, it’s still a budget-friendly option.

Sights

Taurus TH9 sights
Taurus TH9 sights

Novak drift adjustable front and rear sights adorn the Taurus TH9. These three-dot, low-profile Novak sights are alright and can be easily tailored to your needs, but with the Picatinny rail, I’m pretty sure you could go with better options if you’re looking for something more bright.

Although these sights are compatible with 1911 pistols, I would recommend some new and affordable Novak sights like the Night Fision 1911 sights because they actually fit.

Safeties

The TH9 comes with a manual safety, hammer decocker, firing pin block, and loaded chamber indicator for extra safety.

The firing pin prevents accidental discharge, the manual safety prevents the trigger from being pulled, and the lever decocks the hammer.

Apart from the second strike mechanism that I’ve mentioned before, the hammer-fired TH9 is generally safer for CCW.

You can carry the pistol loaded with the hammer drawn back and the manual safety on. Simply flick the safety lever, and you’re ready to fire.

Taurus TH9 unboxed

Aftermarket Options and Ammo Recommendations

Here are some interesting Taurus TH9 accessories if you intend on seriously using your Taurus TH9 for self-defense.

The Crimson Trace 208 light offers illumination for those low-light situations at a very affordable price. It’s not a laser, but you might need it.

Speaking of lasers, the Trinity Compact Red Dot Sight is a definite enhancement if you’re looking for fast target acquisition and aiming assistance.

For ammo, I would recommend any 115-grain ammo boxes like the Fiocchi Shooting Dynamics, Federal American Eagle, PMC Bronze, Hornady Critical Defense FTXAguila FMJ, or a 124-grain box like the Hornady American Gunner +P XTP.

If you’re looking for a good CCW holster for your TH9, the Concealment Express might be your best bet, though it’s always your choice and preference.

Disassembly and Maintenance

Disassembling the TH9 is simple as long as you promise not to point the gun at anyone or anything.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkdTDLKbbGo

Remove the magazine, pull back the slide, inspect the chamber and the magazine and make sure it’s empty.

Pull the slide back, lower the slide disassembly latch and move the slide forward. Afterwards, release the slide latch and pull the trigger and remove the slide from the frame.

For a squeaky clean gun, make sure you have the proper cleaning kit for it.

And as always, consult your Taurus TH9ser’s manual for additional info.

Pros & Cons of the Taurus TH9

Pros
  • Great value for a 9mm budget handgun
  • Reliable DA/SA trigger
  • Versatile enough for EDC, self-defense, and shooting gallery fun
  • Will gladly eat any 9mm ammo grain or type
  • Ergonomic for larger hands
  • Compatible parts with Taurus PT-809
  • Aftermarket abundance
Cons
  • Some might say that it feels cheap
  • Plastic guide rod
  • Safety lever can be a bit stubborn

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Taurus TH9.

Is the Taurus TH9 a Good Self-Defense Handgun?

I wouldn’t exactly recommend the Taurus TH9 for self-defense because it’s a budget option that’s prone to occasional misfires.

Taurus designed a mechanism that would thwart this at a second shot, but nobody should rely solely on this because when life and death scenarios occur; I’d stick to the reliability of Glocks.

The TH9 isn’t exactly the best pistol for self-defense or home defense, but I’ll be damned if it isn’t a fun shooter for the ranges and for beginners who are looking to save money.

What’s the Best Ammo for the Taurus TH9?

Stick to 115-grain ammo boxes like the Fiocchi Shooting Dynamics, Hornady Critical Defense FTX, or a cheaper Aguila FMJ ammo box.

What Are the Best Laser Sights for the Taurus TH9?

The Trinity Compact Red Dot Sight is a great laser option if you’re looking for fast target acquisition and aiming assistance.

Are the Magazines Interchangeable with Taurus PT-809?

Yes, the TH9’s magazine is interchangeable with the Taurus PT-809. Taurus states that it’s not fully compatible, but when I racked a PT-809 magazine into the TH9 it fit perfectly.

Is the Taurus TH9 Single or Double-Action?

The Taurus TH9 is a DA/SA pistol that uses both single-and double-action mechanisms. The SA trigger pull is around 12 pounds, while the double-action is 6.5 pounds.

Is the Taurus TH9 Similar to the Taurus G3?

The main difference is that the TH9 is a hammer-fired pistol while the Taurus G3 is a striker-fired pistol. 

Hammer-fired pistols are generally regarded as safer than striker-fired ones when holstered.

What Do the Others Have to Say About the Taurus TH9?

Here are some interesting testimonials and review snippets from customers that bought the Taurus TH9.

i own the th9 compact
Source: YouTube.com

Alternatives to the Taurus TH9

If you feel that the Taurus TH9 isn’t your type of thing, check out these alternative handguns.

Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield Plus

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus 9mm, 3.1" Barrel, No Thumb Safety, 13+1 Rounds, Black Polymer Frame & Grip, Armornite Stainless Steel Slide
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I don’t want to sound boring and just recommend you a very obvious S&W M&P9 2.0 9mm alternative like everyone else, so I give you the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus.

It’s the new craze that’s sweeping the handgun market, and it offers a 13-round high capacity shooting, but it’s a concealed carry micro compact pistol.

How’s that possible? Well, the secret is in the staggered-stack design of the magazine, unlike the single-stack of the M&P9 Shield.

S&W outdid themselves and improved the Shield. The flat-face trigger is smoother, the grip texture is enhanced, and, simply put, it offers a full-size 9mm experience with a small and lightweight stature for concealed carry.

Canik TP9 Elite SC

Canik TP9 Elite SC 9mm Luger Sub-Compact Pistol, 3.6" Barrel, Tungsten Grey Cerakote, 15+1, 12+1 Rounds, Interchangeable Backstrap Grip, Optic Ready - HG5610T-N
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Here’s a striker-fired, single-action alternative. The Turkish Canik TP9 Elite SC is a single-stack, subcompact pistol that might be a bit tanky for some, but best believe it shoots like the wind.

There’s a 12-round and a 15-round capacity model that’s just two bullets short of the Taurus TH9, but the internal components are high-quality and offer Glock-like durability.

Not only is the value for the price well-balanced, The TP9 Elite SC basically acts as a competition shooter with the perfect blend of features and machinery.

I suggest you snag one of these Wonder Nines ASAP because they’re selling like hot cakes.

Taurus G3

Taurus G3 9MM Full Size Pistol, 4" Barrel, 15+1 Rounds, Manual Safety, Matte Black Finish, Polymer Frame with Picatinny Rail
battlehawkarmory.comCHECK PRICE
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Here’s a very similar Taurus handgun, only lighter and a bit smaller. The Taurus G3 is actually a single-action pistol with a restrike capability that works similarly to the TH9’s double strike mechanism. If it works, don’t fix it, am I right?

The sights are a front fixed 3-dot sight with a drift adjustable rear sight, 25 ounces weight that’s 3 ounces heavier than the TH9, but you get lesser recoil that way.

The G3’s full-frame configuration has different grip patterns, which some of you might like, but the highlight is the side-frame Memory Pads ergonomic palm swell for extra hand positioning.

The 6-pound trigger pull has a smooth take-up, a crisp and clean break, and a short reset which is practically made for extra fast follow-up shots.

Conclusion – Another Well-Designed Budget Handgun to the Taurus Arsenal

Let’s get real.

Personally, I wouldn’t go with a budget handgun as my choice for self-defense, but the Taurus TH9 really has great features for a great price when it comes to full-size 9mm shooting.

If you’re a beginner who’s looking to practice with a hammer-fired pistol, this is the perfect choice. At that price, you get a great DA/SA handgun with two 17-round magazines and interchangeable backstraps. Moreover, you’ll also have the extra cash for all kinds of aftermarket parts.

Additionally, you can find Taurus TH9 upgrades on the market as they’re abundant, especially from LakeLine. They offer all kinds of highly affordable internal parts, in case something breaks or stops working.

The TH9 is far from the ultimate self-defense handgun, but it offers very generous value. It’s reliable enough for a budget option when you compare it to other models around the same price range.

Stay safe, shoot straight.

Brady Kirkpatrick photo Brady Kirkpatrick is the founder of Gun Made, the #1 online gun search engine. Recognizing the challenges of finding the right firearm at the right price, Brady built a platform to simplify the process, comparing prices across hundreds of online dealers and providing valuable content from trustworthy bloggers. His commitment to user-centricity and innovation has shaped Gun Made into a comprehensive resource for gun enthusiasts. In addition to Gun Made, Brady has also lent his firearm expertise to an array of renowned publications, such as The Truth About Guns, CrossBreed Holsters, Cheaper than Dirt, 19FortyFive, We Are The Mighty, and many others.
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Comments

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Stu Sun, 08 May 2022 21:37:04

Very thorough review, great educational piece. Thank you.

Reply
Charlie Tue, 07 Jun 2022 00:39:20

Hi Brady if from what I’ve read here and it was interesting that a SA/Da pistol has a heavier SA pull then DA pull . All my CZs and Beretta pistols have a heavier DA pull and a light SA pull for a more controllable follow up shot. Never had a Taurus but might have to check one out. Thanks for the review.

Reply
Rico TF Mon, 24 Apr 2023 17:43:30

loved the review and will probably look into getting one myself. I have a Taurus revolver already and I trust them enough to get the job done. I also have a CZ 75, but it is just a bit to heavy and too big for my frame to ever be concealed. But word to the wise, no such language as Brazilian. That is what we are. We still speak the language of our original colonizers, Portuguese. But great review otherwise.

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