Walther PPQ Q5 Match 9mm Review
December 14, 2024
Walther PPQ Q4 TAC 9mm Review
December 14, 2024
Taurus TH9 Review
Price Range:
$300 - $400
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| First Build Date | 2017 |
| Type | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Capacity | 17+1 |
| Barrel Length | 4 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 28.5 oz |
| Material | Polymer Frame, Steel Slide |
| Price Range | $300 – $400 |
Overview
The Taurus TH9 is a full-sized, striker-fired semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm. Designed primarily for duty or home defense use, it offers an ergonomic design, a large magazine capacity, and a solid build quality at an affordable price point. Released in 2017, the TH9 provides a 17+1 round capacity in a package that balances weight, accuracy, and recoil management.
With its 4-inch barrel and polymer frame, the TH9 is built for shooters who prefer a larger handgun with better control during shooting. The ergonomic grip provides a secure hold, and the gun is equipped with ambidextrous controls, making it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. The steel slide ensures durability and reliability under use, and the matte black finish reduces glare, making it ideal for tactical applications.
Designed for reliability and accuracy, the Taurus TH9 has a smooth trigger pull and a tactical rail for accessory mounting, such as a light or laser. The pistol is ideal for home defense, range shooting, or duty carry, offering a solid blend of features, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
Strength and Quality
The Taurus TH9 is built to withstand regular use and heavy-duty applications. The polymer frame feels solid and contributes to a manageable overall weight of 28.5 ounces, offering a good balance of sturdiness without being too heavy for comfortable carry. The steel slide is tough and reliable, providing good corrosion resistance.
The fit and finish of the TH9 are generally good for its price. The pistol has a matte black coating that resists glare and reduces wear from regular handling. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive, and the overall build quality is satisfactory for a budget-friendly handgun. While some users may notice minor cosmetic imperfections, these do not affect the gun’s functionality or reliability.
Safety Features
- Manual Safety: The Taurus TH9 features a manual thumb safety, allowing the user to lock the slide and prevent accidental discharge.
- Firing Pin Block: The gun includes a firing pin block that prevents accidental discharges if the gun is dropped or subjected to impact.
- Loaded Chamber Indicator: There is a visible chamber indicator that shows when the firearm is loaded, providing an added layer of safety.
Test Results
Accuracy
The Taurus TH9 is capable of producing tight groups at close to medium ranges. At distances between 7 to 15 yards, the TH9 demonstrates consistent accuracy with groupings averaging between 2 and 3 inches. While the performance is impressive for a full-sized handgun in this price range, it does not compare to some premium models in terms of precision at longer ranges (beyond 25 yards).
Recoil
Due to the full-sized design and polymer frame, the recoil of the Taurus TH9 is very manageable. Even rapid follow-up shots are easy to control, making it suitable for both seasoned shooters and beginners. The weight of the handgun helps to absorb recoil effectively, ensuring a smooth shooting experience.
Reliability
During testing, the Taurus TH9 demonstrated solid reliability. It fed a variety of 9mm ammunition, including FMJ, JHP, and defensive rounds, with no major malfunctions. The 17+1 magazine functioned properly, and the slide cycled smoothly. The pistol was able to run through over 500 rounds without issue, making it a reliable choice for defense and recreational shooting.
Also Read: Taurus TX22 Competition Review
Merits
- Affordability: The Taurus TH9 offers a full-sized, high-capacity handgun at a competitive price, making it a great option for budget-conscious gun owners.
- Accuracy: Despite its price point, the TH9 offers good accuracy at medium ranges, making it a viable option for self-defense or range shooting.
- Reliability: The TH9 has been tested to perform well under different conditions, handling various types of ammunition without significant issues.
- High Capacity: With a 17+1 round capacity, the Taurus TH9 offers a significant ammunition load, which is an advantage over many competitors in the same category.
- Ergonomics: The pistol is comfortable to hold and use, with ambidextrous controls and a grip that provides good handling for a wide range of shooters.
Demerits
- Bulkier Design: The full-size build, while beneficial for accuracy and recoil management, makes the TH9 less ideal for concealed carry.
- Limited Aftermarket Support: Compared to more popular models like Glock or Sig Sauer, the Taurus TH9 has a more limited selection of aftermarket accessories and modifications.
- Trigger Pull: While smooth, the trigger pull is somewhat longer compared to other handguns in its class, which may not be ideal for shooters who prefer a crisp, short trigger pull for rapid shots.
Maintenance
The Taurus TH9 requires regular maintenance to ensure its longevity and reliable performance. Cleaning the barrel and slide after every use is essential, as is ensuring the recoil spring remains in good condition. The gun is easy to disassemble and reassemble, and routine maintenance tasks such as lubrication and cleaning can be performed without specialized tools. The pistol’s simple construction allows for straightforward upkeep, and it is known for its durability under regular use.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Taurus TH9 | Glock 19 | Springfield XD-M | S&W M&P 9 | Ruger SR9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 17+1 | 15+1 | 19+1 | 17+1 | 17+1 |
| Weight | 28.5 oz | 23.6 oz | 29 oz | 24 oz | 26.4 oz |
| Price Range | $300 – $400 | $500 – $600 | $600 – $700 | $400 – $500 | $400 – $500 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Taurus TH9 is a reliable and affordable option for self-defense, with its high capacity and ergonomic design. It offers a solid balance of performance and comfort, making it suitable for both home defense and personal protection.
The Taurus TH9 holds a 17+1 round capacity, providing plenty of ammunition for self-defense or range shooting.
The recoil of the Taurus TH9 is moderate, with the full-size frame and polymer construction helping to absorb recoil for easier follow-up shots. This makes it manageable even for those who may be new to firearms.
While the Taurus TH9 is a full-sized handgun, its size makes it less ideal for everyday concealed carry compared to more compact models. However, it can still be carried with the right holster, especially for those who prefer carrying larger pistols.
Regular cleaning of the barrel, slide, and frame is necessary. Ensure to lubricate the moving parts and inspect the recoil spring for wear. The TH9 is easy to disassemble, and maintenance can be performed with basic firearm care supplies.
