The New Taurus GX2: Best Budget Beginner Pistol?

The term budget often gets associated with poor quality when it comes to firearms, but there are exceptions, as with anything else, and Taurus has delivered quite a few low-priced pistols that have pleasantly surprised the firearms community. 

Most recently, the GX2 was announced and comes with a shockingly low MSRP of only $309.99. That means you’ll likely be able to find it under the $300 mark BRAND NEW. A price that low makes you wonder, though, right?

You can add a light but will have difficulty mounting an optic. Source

While I haven’t been able to shoot the GX2 yet, I’ve shot plenty of other budget offerings from Taurus, such as the G3C, the THC, and the G2C, with no serious issues to note. 

Let’s review what the GX2 brings to the table and discuss whether it has the makings to be another budget winner or is better used as a paperweight. 

Features

The GX2 is a classic example of an entry-level pistol, so understanding that before purchasing it is essential. It’s built with simplicity, ease of use, and safety in mind.

You’ll find a manual thumb safety on every GX2, but you will not find any optics-ready slides. The safety is likely an attempt to appeal to entry-level shooters, and the lack of an optic cut saves Taurus money which can be passed through to the consumer (at least partially). Now, some people don’t like red dot sights and prefer having a manual safety, so if that’s you, the GX2 makes even more sense.

The GX2 is compact without being too tiny to shoot comfortably. Source

Keeping focus on the slide, you’ll notice front and rear slide serrations. They are relatively shallow, but having them is definitely better than not. Above the serrations, you’ll find a fixed white dot front sight and an adjustable rear sight. I’m assuming that certain optic adapters would be able to replace the rear sights, but I haven’t been able to confirm that yet.

You won’t have to worry about taking it easy on the GX2. Source

Once we get to the frame, there is semi-aggressive grip texturing on all sides to aid handling. All of the controls are on the left side of the pistol, so you left-handers aren’t going to have the easiest time with this one. 

The trigger is nestled in a rather large trigger guard, and I’ve heard mixed reviews of it. Many say it has a decently smooth and repeatable pull but leaves much to be desired. 

Last but certainly not least is the accessory rail. Certain lights will run you 50% of the price of the pistol or more, but having the option to mount them is excellent. 

Pros & Cons

Pros: 

• Extremely affordable
• It comes with two magazines
• Ergonomic grip design
• Accessory rail
• Front and rear slide serrations
• Several frame and slide finishes are available
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons:

• No optics-ready models
• Lack of ambidextrous controls
• Manual safety (personal preference not to have one)

Specifications

Parting Thoughts

Until I can put a few hundred rounds down range myself with a GX2, it’s hard to give it a formal stamp of approval, if you will, but on paper and for the price, it seems to deliver high value. 

Would I trade in my Glock 19 or M&P M2.0 for it? Not a chance. But if you’re on a tight budget and are looking for a 9mm with decent capacity or want to get into shooting and don’t want to spend a ton right off the bat, the GX2 stands to be a good option.

Sleek and stylish despite the lower price. Source

I appreciate a manufacturer who understands that not every individual can afford to shell out several hundred dollars per firearm, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be able to defend themselves reliably. 

I look forward to seeing what’s next from Taurus, especially in this budget category. 

As always, stay safe, train hard, and have fun.

Ryan Domke

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