I will be comparing the Taurus G3 Vs Ruger Security 9. Both are exceptional guns in their own right, budget-friendly and come with a reputation for reliability and accuracy.
But, like you, I wanted to know which one could be crowned the champ when put through the paces in real-world scenarios.
So, I took them both out and ran them through various tests, and now I’m here to share my findings with you.
| Feature | Taurus G3 | Ruger Security 9 |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Length | 7.3 inches | 7.24 inches |
| Height | 5.2 inches | 5 inches |
| Width | 1.25 inches | 1.02 inches |
| Barrel Length | 4 inches | 4 inches |
| Sights | 3-dot; front fixed, rear adjustable | Drift-adjustable U-notch |
| Weight | 25 oz (empty magazine) | 23.7 oz (empty magazine) |
| Capacity | 10, 15, or 17 rounds | 15+1 or 10+1 (2 magazines) |
Overview of Taurus G3
The Taurus G3 is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable handgun. It’s designed to be a versatile firearm that fits various shooting needs, from self-defense to range fun.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Length: 7.3 inches
- Height: 5.2 inches
- Width: 1.25 inches
- Barrel Length: 4 inches
- Sights: 3-dot; front fixed, rear drift adjustable
- Weight: 25 oz (with an empty magazine)
- Capacity: 10, 15, or 17 rounds
Overview of Ruger Security 9
The Ruger Security 9 is known for its rugged reliability and is of exceptional value in the compact 9mm market. It’s designed with personal protection in mind, offering ease of use and a comfortable grip.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Length: 7.24 inches
- Height: 5 inches
- Width: 1.02 inches
- Barrel Length: 4 inches
- Sights: Drift-adjustable U-notch
- Weight: 23.7 oz (with an empty magazine)
- Capacity: 15+1 or 10+1 (2 magazines)
Features Comparison: Taurus G3 vs Ruger Security 9
1. Ergonomics and Grip
Taurus G3
The Taurus G3’s grip is a standout feature, boasting aggressive texturing and memory pads that significantly enhance grip stability and hand positioning accuracy.
This design ensures the firearm remains securely in your grasp during use and facilitates intuitive handling and maneuverability.
The ergonomic benefits are particularly noticeable in extended shooting sessions or high-stress scenarios, where maintaining a firm grip is crucial for consistent performance and safety.
Ruger Security 9
The Ruger Security 9 opts for a more subdued approach to its grip texture, aiming for a balance between secure hold and comfort.
While this may result in a slightly less aggressive grip compared to the G3, it contributes to the Security 9’s streamlined and efficient ergonomic design.
This makes it adaptable to a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles, ensuring a comfortable and reliable shooting experience even in less-than-ideal conditions, such as wet or rapid-fire situations.
Winner
The Taurus G3 emerges as the superior choice in terms of ergonomics and grip. Its deliberate design choices in aggressive texturing and strategic placement of memory pads provide a tangible advantage in grip security and ergonomic handling, essential attributes for effective firearm operation.
2. Sights and Accuracy
Taurus G3
The G3 is equipped with a versatile 3-dot sighting system, incorporating a fixed front sight and a drift-adjustable rear sight.
This configuration is designed for optimal sight alignment and accuracy across a variety of lighting conditions.
Though some shooters may find the sight dots to be on the smaller side, the system is generally effective for achieving precise target acquisition and maintaining accuracy over different shooting distances.
Ruger Security 9
Diverging from the traditional 3-dot system, the Ruger Security 9 features a drift-adjustable U-notch rear sight paired with a prominent front dot.
This unique sighting arrangement facilitates rapid and clear target engagement, offering an intuitive sight picture that can be particularly beneficial in dynamic shooting environments. The distinctive design of the U-notch sight aids in quick focus on the front sight, enhancing overall shooting accuracy and speed.
Winner
The Ruger Security 9 takes the lead in sights and accuracy. Its innovative U-notch rear sight, in conjunction with the clear front dot, provides a swift and unambiguous sight picture, granting shooters a marked advantage in rapid target acquisition and engagement compared to the traditional setup of the G3.
3. Safety and Operation
Taurus G3
The G3’s safety features include manual thumb and trigger safety, offering a dual-layered approach to firearm safety.
The manual safety is intuitively placed for easy engagement and disengagement, allowing for swift transitions between safe and fire modes.
Additionally, the trigger safety further enhances the G3’s safety profile, ensuring the firearm can only be discharged when the trigger is deliberately pressed, thus minimizing the risk of accidental discharge.
Ruger Security 9
Unlike the G3, the Ruger Security 9 incorporates a manual safety lever on the left side, designed to engage with the thumb.
This mechanism may require an initial period of adjustment for some users but ultimately provides a straightforward and effective means of securing the firearm.
The addition of a built-in trigger safety complements the manual safety, creating a comprehensive safety system that effectively prevents unintended firing, ensuring safe operation across various conditions.
Winner
This category results in a draw. Both the Taurus G3 and the Ruger Security 9 are equipped with robust safety features that cater to safe handling and operation.
The choice between the two ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding the specific safety mechanisms and their operational ergonomics.
4. Trigger Quality and Functionality
Taurus G3
The G3’s trigger system is notable for its smoothness and the inclusion of a second strike capability, which is a unique feature in the world of striker-fired pistols.
This means if the first trigger pull results in a misfire, you can simply pull the trigger again without needing to rack the slide. This adds a layer of reliability and practicality, especially in stressful situations.
Ruger Security 9
The Security 9 features a double-action-only (DAO) trigger with an internal hammer system. This results in a longer trigger pull compared to the G3, which may affect quick follow-up shots.
However, it also means the trigger has a consistent pull, which some shooters prefer for its predictability and the inherent safety aspect of a longer pull.
Winner
Taurus G3 excels in this feature. Its trigger offers a smoother experience with the added benefit of second strike capability, making it more versatile and potentially more reliable in a wider range of scenarios compared to the longer, consistent pull of the Ruger’s DAO system.
Pros & Cons of Taurus G3
Pros
- Aggressive grip texture for secure handling.
- Second strike capability adds reliability.
- Shorter reset for faster follow-up shots.
Cons
- Larger overall size.
Pros & Cons of Ruger Security 9
Pros
- Blued, stonewash finish is durable against scuffs.
- Compact size better suited for concealed carry.
- Predictable DAO trigger pull can be preferred for safety.
Cons
- Longer trigger pull.
Similarities Between Taurus G3 & Ruger Security 9
- Both chambered in 9mm.
- Similar barrel length (4 inches).
- Equipped with safety features.
- Polymer frame construction.
- Accessory rail for attachments.
- Designed for budget-conscious buyers.
- Suitable for self-defense and range shooting.
Differences Between Taurus G3 & Ruger Security 9
- G3’s aggressive grip texture vs. Security 9’s smoother grip.
- Different sight systems (3-dot vs. U-notch).
- G3 is slightly larger in dimensions.
- Security 9 operates with a DAO trigger; G3 has a striker-fired mechanism.
- G3’s trigger offers a shorter reset compared to Security 9’s consistent DAO pull.
- Different magazine release designs and slide stop functionality.
Final Verdict
After extensive testing and comparison between the Taurus G3 and the Ruger Security 9, it’s clear that choosing a winner isn’t straightforward due to the unique strengths of each handgun.
However, my preference leans towards the Taurus G3 for its exceptional ergonomics, innovative safety features, and the practicality of its trigger system, including the second strike capability.
While both handguns stand out for their reliability, affordability, and suitability for various shooting applications, the G3’s blend of performance-enhancing features and user-centric design nudges it ahead.
FAQ’s
What gun is similar to Ruger Security-9?
The Glock 19 is similar to the Ruger Security-9, but the Security-9 offers better firepower with its hammer-fired system compared to the Glock’s striker-fired mechanism.
How far can a Ruger Security-9 shoot?
The Ruger Security-9 can achieve 4-inch groups at 15 yards, with an average group size of 5.4 inches at 25 yards.
Is Ruger Security-9 a good conceal carry?
Yes, the Ruger Security-9 is a good choice for concealed carry due to its compact size, 15+1 capacity, and affordability.
Is the Ruger Security-9 as good as the Glock 19?
While the Glock 19 is more accurate, the Ruger Security-9 has a better trigger pull and is much more affordable, though it lacks the Glock’s extensive aftermarket support.
