NRA Gun of the Week: Taurus GX4

American Rifleman Staff

posted on October 8, 2021

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Those searching for an affordable, feature-rich sub-compact pistol will find the Taurus USA GX4 to be one of the latest options in this marketplace. Between the gun's sound ergonomics, reliable function and ubiquitous 9 mm chambering, the GX4 stands as a top contender for concealed carry and defensive use.

right side handgun pistol black 9 mm semi-automatic text on image noting Taurus GX4

The Taurus USA GX4 is a single-action-only, semi-automatic pistol that measures 4.5” tall, 6.05” long and 1” wide. Despite small overall dimensions, Taurus supplies its standard GX4 with a flush-fit, 11-round magazine. While providing increased capacity thanks to the improved magazine design, state-compliant 10-rounders, as well, extended 13-round units are available.

hands gun pistol black metal steel shooting

Taurus has configured its GX4 with a striker-fired mechanism built within a Nitride-treated, carbon-steel slide. Steel sights top the slide, a marked upgrade over polymer sights found on previous Taurus handguns. Also, Taurus configured its GX4 with Glock-pattern sight dovetails, making it easy to upgrade.

black plastic gun parts pistol texturing lever trigger handgun closeup details

External controls for the GX4 pistol consist of a low-profile, overmolded polymer slide stop on the left side of the frame, along with the reversible polymer magazine release button. A polymer trigger is supplied with an angled, flat-face with a central safety lever. In addition to the gun’s trigger-shoe safety, a striker-block safety is included.

Though some ballistic performance is lost due to the 3" 9 mm barrel, what is gained comes in the way of sound ergonomics. Replaceable backstraps allow for a custom fit and panels of molded-in texturing throughout help locking it into grip position, shot after shot.

Watch our NRA Gun of the Week video to see the Taurus GX4 in use.

Taurus USA GX4 Specifications
Manufacturer: Taurus USA
Action Type: single-action, centerfire pistol
Chambering: 9 mm Luger
Barrel: 3.08"; Diamond-Like Carbon coating
Slide: carbon steel; Nitride treated
Frame: black polymer, steel chassis
Sights: three-white-dot, adjustable square-notch rear
Magazine: 11-round detachable box
Height: 4.5"
Length: 6.05"
Width: 1"
Weight: 18.5 ozs. (w/empty magazine)
MSRP: $392