I’m thrilled to share my experience as a professional shooter, diving deep into the nitty-gritty of two fascinating firearms: the Taurus G3C Vs Taurus GX4.
I’ve taken both these guns out for a spin, testing them rigorously to see which one comes out on top.
My aim here isn’t just to list specs and features; I want to give you a real feel for how these guns perform in the hands.
| Feature | Taurus G3C | Taurus GX4 |
| Type | Striker-fired semi-auto | Striker-fired semi-auto |
| Caliber | 9mm Luger | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 10+1 or 12+1 | 11-round magazines |
| Barrel Length | 3.2 inches | 3.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 6.3 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Height | 5.1 inches | 4.4 inches |
| Width | 1.2 inches | 1.1 inches |
| Weight | 22 ounces | 18.5 ounces |
Taurus G3C
The Taurus G3C enters the ring as a refined version of its predecessor, the G2C, aiming to enhance the concealed carry experience. It’s compact, reliable, and designed with the shooter in mind.
Specs
- Type: Striker-fired semi-auto centerfire
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 10+1 or 12+1
- Barrel Length: 3.2 inches
- Overall Length: 6.3 inches
- Height: 5.1 inches
- Width: 1.2 inches
- Weight: 22 ounces
- Construction: Tenifer-coated slide, stippled polymer frame
- Trigger Pull: 4.5 lb
- Sights: Steel; serrated rear, white-dot front
- Safety Features: Manual thumb, trigger block
Taurus GX4
The Taurus GX4 is the latest innovation in concealed carry from Taurus, offering a sleek design and enhanced modularity without compromising firepower or reliability.
Specs
- Type: Striker-fired semi-auto
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 11-round magazines
- Barrel Length: 3.1 inches
- Overall Length: 6.1 inches
- Height: 4.4 inches
- Width: 1.1 inches
- Weight: 18.5 ounces
- Construction: Gas-nitrided alloy steel slide, polymer frame with interchangeable backstraps
- Sights: Steel; drift-adjustable black rear, white-dot front
- Safety Features: Striker block, trigger
Features Comparison of Taurus G3C VS Taurus GX4
1. Ergonomics
Taurus G3C
The G3C is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring a grip that fills the hand for a firm and stable hold.
Its wider grip and slightly heavier build contribute significantly to a steady shooting stance, especially noticeable during extended-range sessions.
The stippled polymer frame strikes an excellent balance, offering a secure grip without discomfort, which is crucial for maintaining control during rapid-fire scenarios.
The ergonomics of the G3C are thoughtfully engineered to enhance shooter confidence and performance, providing a solid foundation for accurate and consistent shooting.
Taurus GX4
In contrast, the Taurus GX4 brings a fresh perspective to ergonomics with its compact and lightweight design.
Despite its smaller size, it doesn’t cut corners on grip quality. The GX4’s modularity is a standout feature, offering interchangeable backstraps to accommodate various hand sizes.
This adaptability ensures a customized fit for individual shooters, although I noticed that individuals with larger hands might need to opt for the larger backstrap to achieve optimal comfort and control.
The grip texture, less aggressive than the G3C’s, still manages to provide sufficient traction for effective recoil management, proving that compact size does not have to compromise grip effectiveness.
Winner
When considering ergonomics, the Taurus G3C edges out the GX4. Its fuller grip and balanced weight distribution cater to a broader spectrum of shooters, offering a more universally comfortable shooting experience.
The G3C’s design provides a sense of control and stability that is especially appreciated during prolonged use.
While the GX4’s modularity and customizable grip are commendable, the G3C’s ergonomic advantages offer a more immediately comfortable and controlled handling experience, securing its position as the winner in this category.
2. Concealability
Taurus G3C
The G3C, while compact, presents certain challenges in the realm of concealability due to its dimensions.
Its frame, marginally taller and wider, requires thoughtful consideration when dressing for concealed carry, particularly under lighter attire.
During practical testing, these dimensions were somewhat mitigated when opting for inside-the-waistband carry, where the slightly heavier weight did not prove to be a significant deterrent. This suggests that while the G3C can be effectively concealed, it demands a bit more planning and the right carry set up to do so seamlessly.
Taurus GX4
The GX4 excels in the concealability department, its design honed for stealth and ease of carry. Its reduced dimensions and lighter weight make it an ideal candidate for those seeking minimal visibility and maximum comfort in concealed carry.
My experience with the GX4 under casual clothing was impressive; it remained virtually undetectable, a testament to its design focused on low-profile carry.
Its slim design significantly minimizes the risk of printing, making it a superior choice for everyday carry in a variety of settings.
Winner
For concealability, the GX4 stands out as the clear victor. Its design is inherently suited for concealed carry, offering significant advantages in terms of size, weight, and profile over the G3C.
The GX4 is the optimal choice for individuals prioritizing discretion and comfort, making it the preferred choice for concealed carry enthusiasts seeking a firearm that blends seamlessly into their daily life.
3. Quality and Design
Taurus G3C
The G3C is built to last, featuring a Tenifer-coated slide that resists wear and tear and a robust polymer frame that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Its design is straightforward and functional, with a focus on reliability and durability. In field testing, the G3C proved itself as a dependable firearm, maintaining consistent performance under various conditions.
While its aesthetic may lean towards the utilitarian, this does not detract from its overall quality and reliability, which are paramount for a defensive firearm.
Taurus GX4
The GX4, however, elevates the standard for quality and design within the Taurus lineup. Its gas-nitrided alloy steel slide not only matches the G3C in terms of durability but also features a sleeker, more contemporary design.
The attention to detail in the GX4’s design, including the flush slide stop and streamlined profile, contributes to its aesthetic appeal without compromising functionality.
This modern approach to design, coupled with its build quality, positions the GX4 as a standout choice for those who value both form and function in their firearm.
Winner
The GX4 surpasses the G3C in quality and design, merging durability with modern styling to create a firearm that is as visually appealing as it is reliable.
Its thoughtful design enhancements not only contribute to its superior concealability but also enhance its overall user experience.
For those seeking a blend of top-tier craftsmanship and contemporary design, the GX4 is the unrivaled choice, offering advancements that cater to the modern shooter’s needs.
4. Sight System
Taurus G3C
The G3C features steel serrated rear and white-dot front sights, providing a clear and straightforward sight picture.
During my testing, I found these sights to be reliable for quick target acquisition.
However, they are somewhat basic compared to more modern options, and while effective, they don’t offer anything particularly innovative.
Taurus GX4
Similarly, the GX4 sports steel has drift-adjustable black rear and white-dot front sights. The sight system on the GX4 felt slightly more refined in my hands, perhaps due to the gun’s overall ergonomics and balance.
The sights are crisp and clear and maintain their utility in various lighting conditions, enhancing my shooting experience.
Winner
Both guns perform admirably in terms of their sight systems, but the GX4 edges out slightly ahead compared to the G3C.
The GX4’s sights, combined with its superior ergonomics and balance, provided a marginally better shooting experience in terms of speed and accuracy. Thus, the GX4 wins for its slightly more refined sight system.
Pros & Cons of Taurus G3C
Pros
- Robust construction with a Tenifer-coated slide.
- Good ergonomic design for a comfortable grip.
- Manual thumb and trigger block safety features.
Cons
- Larger and heavier, making it less ideal for certain concealed carry options.
- Basic sight system without options for red-dot optics.
Pros & Cons of Taurus GX4
Pros
- Compact and lightweight, excellent for concealed carry.
- Interchangeable backstraps for grip customization.
- Modern design with a better finish on the slide.
Cons
- Smaller grip may not suit all hand sizes without adjustments.
Similarities between Taurus G3C & Taurus GX4
- Both are striker-fired semi-auto centerfire handguns.
- Both chambered in 9mm Luger.
- Steel construction for durability.
- Both have safety features like trigger block.
- Similar sight configurations with adjustments for rear sights.
Differences between Taurus G3C & Taurus GX4
- G3C is slightly larger and heavier than GX4.
- GX4 is designed with a more modern aesthetic compared to G3C.
- G3C’s slide is Tenifer-coated, while GX4’s slide has a gas-nitrided alloy steel construction.
- GX4’s ergonomic design and balance are more refined for enhanced shooting performance.
- G3C comes with a slightly heavier trigger pull compared to GX4.
- GX4 is more focused on concealability with its compact size and lighter weight.
Final Verdict
After thoroughly testing both the Taurus G3C and the Taurus GX4, weighing their performances, and considering their respective advantages in various aspects of shooting and carry, my conclusion leans towards the Taurus GX4 as the overall winner.
The GX4’s design philosophy, focusing on compactness, modularity, and modern aesthetics, translates into tangible benefits for the user, especially in the realm of concealed carry.
Its lightweight frame, customizable grip options, and sleek profile offer a blend of comfort and discretion that is hard to match.
FAQ’s
Is the GX4 better than the G3c?
Yes, the taurus GX4 outclasses the G3c in ergonomics, concealability, and design, making it a superior choice for concealed carry.
What is the best Taurus 9mm?
The GX4 is among the best Taurus 9mm pistols, offering a compact, reliable option with excellent handling characteristics.
What is the difference between Taurus GX4 and GX4 Toro?
The GX4XL T.O.R.O. has a longer slide and barrel, with an optics-ready option, differentiating it from the standard GX4.
Is the Taurus GX4 a good pocket gun?
Yes, the GX4 is an excellent pocket gun due to its compact size and powerful capacity, making it a great choice for concealed carry.
