Taurus Sub-Compacts
Mar 7, 2011 3:16:32 GMT
Post by Larry Jordan on Mar 7, 2011 3:16:32 GMT
As much as I admire my sub-compact Glocks--G26 and G36--I wanted to find something narrower and smaller, more convenient to carry, when I run. A trip last year to my favorite gun store resulted in my fortunate discovery of two sub-compact carry pieces by Taurus: the PT 709 (9mm) and PT 738 TCP (380ACP).
Profiles
Glock 26 (top), PT 709 (middle), PT 738 TCP (bottom)
Top View
You can see how much narrower the PT 709 is than the G26. The empty weights aren't all that different (Taurus:19oz, Glock:19.75oz). The narrower width of the single-stack PT 709 is difference enough. My Galco fanny pack rides high and tight and appendix carry or deep concealment is less of a hassle. Let's admit it: carry is a hassle--awkward and uncomfortable. If Glock were to come out with a single-stack "comfort" series, I'd jump on 'em. Until then I'll take this Taurus in the above stated roles. Thank You. But how does it shoot? Great! Points well and is absolutely reliable with all types of FMJ tested and my duty loads. My only concern is the adjustable rear sight--will it auto-adjust during carry? I could make excuses (self-defense shooting ranges are short (3-5 yards) and "you may not have time to use your sights"), but head shots at 25 yards are probably not likely with this pistol owing to a number of factors apart from the inferior sights.
The PT 738 TCP is truly a pocket-pistol in form and weighs 10.6oz empty! I chose this piece principally to carry while running. It fits conveniently in a pocket holster secured in a runner's pack. Although I might carry the 9mm PT 709 as a primary, under most circumstances the TCP in 380ACP is better suited as a backup.
Here is how these pieces compare with a full-size S&W Model 66 (357Mag K-Frame):
To be sure there are other contenders in this market: Sigsauer, S&W, Kel-Tec, Ruger. It's hard to keep up, but some have the money and interest to do so: nutnfancy raves about the Kel-Tec PF-9 and other sub-compacts that would serve admirably in this role. That said, these two Taurus models are in my estimation superior in terms of fit and finish. Quite honestly I do not have enough rounds down range through both of these to draw any conclusions on durability. Stay tuned.
Profiles
Glock 26 (top), PT 709 (middle), PT 738 TCP (bottom)
Top View
You can see how much narrower the PT 709 is than the G26. The empty weights aren't all that different (Taurus:19oz, Glock:19.75oz). The narrower width of the single-stack PT 709 is difference enough. My Galco fanny pack rides high and tight and appendix carry or deep concealment is less of a hassle. Let's admit it: carry is a hassle--awkward and uncomfortable. If Glock were to come out with a single-stack "comfort" series, I'd jump on 'em. Until then I'll take this Taurus in the above stated roles. Thank You. But how does it shoot? Great! Points well and is absolutely reliable with all types of FMJ tested and my duty loads. My only concern is the adjustable rear sight--will it auto-adjust during carry? I could make excuses (self-defense shooting ranges are short (3-5 yards) and "you may not have time to use your sights"), but head shots at 25 yards are probably not likely with this pistol owing to a number of factors apart from the inferior sights.
The PT 738 TCP is truly a pocket-pistol in form and weighs 10.6oz empty! I chose this piece principally to carry while running. It fits conveniently in a pocket holster secured in a runner's pack. Although I might carry the 9mm PT 709 as a primary, under most circumstances the TCP in 380ACP is better suited as a backup.
Here is how these pieces compare with a full-size S&W Model 66 (357Mag K-Frame):
To be sure there are other contenders in this market: Sigsauer, S&W, Kel-Tec, Ruger. It's hard to keep up, but some have the money and interest to do so: nutnfancy raves about the Kel-Tec PF-9 and other sub-compacts that would serve admirably in this role. That said, these two Taurus models are in my estimation superior in terms of fit and finish. Quite honestly I do not have enough rounds down range through both of these to draw any conclusions on durability. Stay tuned.