I’m diving into a comparison that’s been on my radar for a while: the Taurus PT92 Vs Girsan Regard.
Both of these 9mm powerhouses have garnered attention for their performance, reliability, and design.
My aim here is to give you a firsthand account of my experiences with these guns, testing them in the field to determine which one might come out on top.
| Feature | Taurus PT92 | Girsan Regard |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm Luger |
| Capacity | 17+1 | 18 |
| Overall Length | 8.5 inches | 8.6 inches |
| Overall Height | 5.4 inches | 5.5 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.6 inches | 1.375 inches |
| Overall Weight | 34 oz | 34.40 oz |
Overview of Taurus PT92
The Taurus PT92 has a long-standing reputation for being a reliable and affordable option for shooters. Originating as a Brazilian take on a classic design, it has found its way into the hands of many enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 17+1
- Overall Length: 8.5 inches
- Overall Height: 5.4 inches
- Overall Width: 1.6 inches
- Overall Weight: 34 oz
Overview of Girsan Regard
The Girsan Regard, on the other hand, brings a touch of elegance and precision from Turkey. It’s often praised for its craftsmanship and has been making waves as a solid competitor in the 9mm segment.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm Luger
- Capacity: 18 Round Magazine
- Overall Length: 8.6 inches
- Overall Height: 5.5 inches
- Overall Width: 1.375 inches
- Overall Weight: 34.40 oz
FeaturesComparison: Taurus PT92 vs. Girsan Regard
1. Ergonomics and Handling
Taurus PT92
The Taurus PT92, with its robust frame and well-distributed weight, feels secure and substantial when held. The factory grips, though functional, lean towards the basic side, providing a satisfactory level of comfort and control.
The grip’s width, while accommodating for most, may present a challenge for shooters with smaller hands, potentially impacting the firearm’s manageability during extended shooting sessions.
This aspect, while minor, could influence the overall handling experience for a subset of users.
Girsan Regard
Conversely, the Girsan Regard offers an enhanced grip experience through its use of ergonomic G10 grips. These grips not only provide a superior texture for a more secure hold but also add an element of aesthetic appeal to the firearm.
The Regard’s slimmer profile caters to a wider range of hand sizes, promoting better control and comfort. This thoughtful attention to ergonomics translates into a more versatile and accommodating shooting experience, likely to be appreciated across a broader demographic of shooters.
Winner
The Girsan Regard edges out the Taurus PT92 in terms of ergonomics and handling.
Its strategic design choices, focusing on grip texture and firearm profile, offer a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience that is likely to appeal to a wider audience.
2. Safety Features
Taurus PT92
The Taurus PT92 is equipped with an impressive suite of safety features, notably including a frame-mounted manual safety/decocker and a unique key-lock safety mechanism.
These features contribute significantly to the firearm’s overall safety profile, offering users multiple layers of security. This comprehensive approach to safety is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize the secure storage and handling of their firearm, providing peace of mind in a variety of scenarios.
Girsan Regard
The Girsan Regard opts for a more streamlined safety approach, featuring a slide-mounted decocker that lacks the additional manual safety and key-lock features present on the PT92.
While this simplicity might appeal to those who favor a more straightforward mechanism, it may fall short for users who seek the added security and flexibility offered by more comprehensive safety systems.
Winner
In the safety feature comparison, the Taurus PT92 stands superior. Its broader array of safety mechanisms not only caters to a diverse range of user preferences but also underscores a commitment to firearm security and user safety, distinguishing it as the preferred choice for safety-conscious individuals.
3. Trigger Performance
Taurus PT92
The trigger system of the Taurus PT92 delivers a solid performance, characterized by a consistent pull and a somewhat extended reset.
This setup provides a reliable shooting experience, though it may not meet the exacting demands of those seeking a highly responsive trigger, especially in scenarios requiring rapid engagement or competitive precision.
The longer reset could potentially slow follow-up shots, slightly detracting from the firearm’s overall responsiveness.
Girsan Regard
In contrast, the Girsan Regard showcases a commendable trigger mechanism, marked by a notably shorter reset and a lighter pull weight. These features contribute to a smoother, more efficient shooting process, enabling quicker and more accurate follow-up shots.
This improved trigger performance significantly enhances the shooting experience, fostering greater accuracy and confidence among users, particularly in fast-paced or competitive shooting environments.
Winner
The Girsan Regard triumphs in the trigger performance category, offering a superior shooting experience characterized by enhanced responsiveness and precision.
Its optimized trigger system sets it apart, particularly appealing to those whose shooting activities demand swift, precise action.
Pros & Cons of Taurus PT92
Pros
- Robust safety features including a manual safety/decocker and a key-lock system.
- Solid and durable construction with a steel slide and alloy frame.
Cons
- Wider grip may not suit all hand sizes comfortably.
Pros & Cons of Girsan Regard
Pros
- Highly customizable sight system with removable front and rear sights.
- Slimmer profile and ergonomic G10 grips enhance handling and comfort.
Cons
- Basic safety system with slide-mounted decocker only.
Similarities between Taurus PT92 & Girsan Regard
- Both models have steel slides and alloy frames.
- Chambered in 9mm, catering to a wide range of shooters.
- Feature single-action/double-action trigger systems.
- Similar overall dimensions and weight, ensuring a comparable handling experience.
Differences between Taurus PT92 & Girsan Regard
- Taurus PT92 offers more comprehensive safety features compared to Girsan Regard’s simpler system.
- Girsan Regard allows for full sight customization with removable front and rear sights; Taurus PT92 does not.
- The grip on the Girsan Regard features ergonomic G10 material and a slimmer profile, whereas the Taurus PT92 has a wider grip and basic stock grips.
- Taurus PT92’s safety lever is frame-mounted, offering a decocker and manual safety, while Girsan’s decocker is slide-mounted and serves only as a decocker.
Final Verdict
After rigorous testing and careful consideration of the Taurus PT92 and the Girsan Regard, my choice leans towards the Girsan Regard.
This conclusion comes from a holistic assessment of both firearms, where personal handling, shooting experience, and the comparative analysis of features played a crucial role.
The Regard, with its refined ergonomics, superior trigger performance, and customizable sights, offers a shooting experience that is both enjoyable and precise.
While the Taurus PT92 impresses with its safety features and durability, the overall versatility and shooter-friendly design of the Girsan Regard make it my preferred choice.
FAQ’s
Is the Girsan Regard a good gun?
Yes, the Girsan Regard is highly regarded for its flawless function, with no issues during tests, making it a reliable choice for shooters.
Does the Taurus PT92 have a decocker?
Yes, the Taurus PT92 features a decocker, part of its ambidextrous safety lever system, enhancing its safety profile.
What is the Taurus security locking system?
The Taurus security locking system is a built-in mechanism that allows the pistol to be secured and made inoperable with the turn of a key, providing an additional layer of safety.
