Johnny B breaks the Taurus G3C down in the video above. Or read on for even more info!
Everyone has some biases when it comes to firearm brands and models.
Due to past disappointments, we’re a little jaded when it comes to the Taurus brand. Truth hurts, but there you have it.
But we do our best to approach every review with an open mind because sometimes we get taken by surprise.
And you know what? The Taurus G3C is one of those times.
It’s a compact, affordable, concealed carry weapon (CCW) with some nice improvements over its predecessor.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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We hands-on tested it for reliability, accuracy, ergonomics, and more. Read on to see if it’s for you…plus the differences from the older G2C.
Table of Contents
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Taurus G3C Review at a Glance
Pros:
- Reliable with all ammo we tested
- 10 or 12 rounds of 9mm depending on mag
- Easy center mass hits at close distance
- Right amount of grip
- Easy to access controls
- Affordable at around $250 street price
Cons:
- Comes with manual safety that requires specific training to disengage in the heat of the moment
- Not optic ready
The Bottom Line:
Overall a reliable and dependable CCW gun for a reasonable price (under $300). It’s certainly a step up from the G2C and usually only costs $30 more. Well worth the update!
Specs
Okay, so most of the specs are basically the same as the G2C (full review here); the differences are more in the details, and that is where the G3C really shines.
| G2C | G3C | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 6.25 in | 6.3 in |
| Height | 5 in | 5.1 in |
| Width | 1.25 in | 1.2 in |
| Weight | 21.15 oz | 22 oz |
| Barrel | 3.25 in | 3.2 in |
Info from Taurus.
Rating score
G2C Versus G3C
Besides the basic specs, the G3C has some nice pluses going for it. First off, you get THREE magazines in the box. That is unheard of, and we love it.
The updated Taurus also rocks front slide serrations and a slightly redesigned magazine well, providing you a place to grip and rip magazines as needed.
But the sights are the most notable change. Gone are the annoying plastic sights of the G2C!
Now you get metal front and rear sights via the 1 dot front post and a black box rear sight.
The best part is that they are Glock sight compatible, so if you don’t like the stock Taurus sights, you can upgrade them with ease.
And to those of you concerned about safety mechanisms? Well, you have a lot of them on the G3C.
The trigger safety dongle, striker block, loaded chamber indicator, and manual safety come standard.
And capacity? You can get 10+1 or 12+1 based on your magazine of choice.
Something to note: The magazines are interchangeable. The G3C can even take P226 mags if that’s what you’re into! Unfortunately, the same can’t be said of the slides.
Some G2C holsters work for the G3C, but not all of them. At this point, finding the perfect fit may be a guessing game until more G3C owners play the trial and error game.
In general, G2C holsters made from leather should work since the material is more forgiving to the minor changes between the two designs. Kydex holsters…are iffy.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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And like we mentioned before…the G3C is only about $30 more than the G2C. With the extra mag and all the upgraded goodies on the actual gun it’s a no-brainer.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Who Is It For?
Anyone who wants an affordable and reliable concealed carry gun. Against other micro 9mms that can carry 10 or 12 rounds…it’s the cheapest at around $250 street price.
How Does It Shoot?
I took the G3C out to the range for some major fun and plinking. And I also invited Uncle Ricky along for the trip!
The G3C ran perfectly with several types of ammo.
This firearm seems to be just as reliable—and possible even more reliable—than the G2C, which is a critical element if you plan on using this gun for self-defense or home defense.
Check out our favorite 9mm ammo here.
We tried a variety of ammo from steel cased to proper brass and the G3C ate it all.
Center mass shots at 7 yards was an easy task, but keep in mind that the G3C is a compact CCW gun, so you won’t have a lot of luck at extended ranges.
For close defense, though, the G3C nails it.
Oh, and the handling is great! The G3C’s grip is extra grippy, and the controls are well placed and easy to work with.
A super long trigger acts as an extra layer of protection and safety, but the reset is short and crisp, making follow-up shots fast and on target.
While the manual safety is easy to flick off and on, we’re not crazy about there being one at all. There is such a thing as making a gun too safe.
Downsides?
The aforementioned manual safety is one.
Besides that, this is a really solid gun. Taurus has a long history of designing and manufacturing some mediocre pistols. But the G2C and G3C have really set the stage for this company to make a comeback as a respectable brand.
Taurus has every right to be proud of the G3C. It’s a budget CCW that runs, runs well, and is actually nice to shoot.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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By The Numbers
Reliability: 4.5/5
Range day opened with one forgivable hiccup. But after that? Perfection.
Ergonomics: 4/5
Controls are in the right place. Great grip. Sits low in the hand and feels good.
Accuracy: 4/5
Not a nail-driver, but it does what it is supposed to do. This gun could serve you well if you find yourself in need of a dependable CCW.
Customization: 3/5
Has a little rail and takes Glock sights. However, there’s now the G3C TORO version that is optics ready.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Value: 4/5
Good value, especially with the three mags.
Overall: 4/5
Taurus is providing reliable personal protection to a lot of folks who may be on a budget. Their G3C is a solid and cost-effective offering in a fairly saturated market.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Upgrades for Taurus G3C
It’s made for CCW so you’ll definitely want a holster! Check out our Best Concealed Carry Holsters article but otherwise we had a good time with the Crossbreed.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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There’s a space for a small flashlight and our favorite compact light is the TLR-7 but check out our Best Pistol Flashlights for other recommendations.
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Mags…you can never have too many!
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Want to add a micro red dot (see our picks)…check out the new Taurus G3C TORO edition.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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Final Verdict
The Taurus G3C delivers as a reliable, ergonomic, and economic CCW for the average person. A dependable CCW is always a great self-defense item to have on hand and getting one within your budget is always a perk. The G3C also gives users an upgraded experience over the older G2C.
We’re very excited to see what Taurus will come out with next, and highly recommend their G3C!
What is your take on the G3C? Can it live up to the G2C? Can Taurus become a super respected name like Glock? Let us know in the comments!
If you’re looking for more CCW guns, check out the Best CCW Guns by Caliber! To feed your new gat, stop by the Best 9mm For Home and Self Defense!
FAQ
How many rounds does a Taurus G3C hold?
The Taurus G3C has a 10+1 capacity magazine of 9mm or an extended one with 12 rounds.
Which gun is better, the Taurus G2C or G3C?
We much prefer the G3C for only a few bucks more for its three magazines, upgraded metal sights, front serrations, and redesigned mag well.
Is the Taurus G3C a good concealed carry gun?
Yes, it's small micro size and 10+1 rounds of 9mm make it great for appendix carry (AIWB).
Taurus G3C Gun Deals
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Rating score
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I love the new Taurus Pistols, and own two G2c's, a G3, aG3c, a GX4, aTX22, and a Model 85 revolver. I have nothing but positive experiences with all of them except that I can't hit anything with the revolver.
I do prefer the loaded chamber indicator on the G2c because I can actually see and feel it. I cannot see the G3c indicator and tell anything. I also have no issue at all with the manual safety, and actually prefer to have it, being perfectly placed and easy to use. There are 13 and 15 round mags for this pistol as well, and all work in the G2c and G3c. I use the Viridian E series laser on both, but after 1 1/2 years of carrying, they are not reliable because I carry on the small of my back IWB, and they collect dust from carry, and either don't come on, or are weak, even after cleaning and new battery. Currently trying out others to see if I can overcome this issue.
In any case, they have been reliable with any ammo I have used, and I have had zero failures on either one through several hundred rounds. Plus, they are so affordable you can buy many if you are into that, as I clearly am.
Has anybody had the slide cap break on the Taurus g3c.
I had to chuckle at one of the "Cons." If you need "specific training" to swipe a safety before firing, you don't belong near a firearm.
Bought a G3C at Christmas. With sale price and rebate I got the gun for $185.00 new from Rural King. So far put through 300 rds with no issues at all. Accuracy is fine for a compact with easy center mass at 15 yards and a couple of "bulls eyes". I will eventually replace the sights. Trigger has a lot of take up (like a revolver) but the pull is good and crisp. So far so good.
A couple points of refinement; many more high capacity maga are available on Taurus' US website including 15 & 20 round options. Also, it has a resetting trigger which might not be great for safety, but makes this the BEST DRY FIRE PRACTICE GUN AROUND. Drop a laser in the barrel and you have an excellent training gun!
Thanks for that info, I just picked one up today.
Hello,
Preface: I own both a PT111 Millenium and the newer G3C.
I agree with everything stated in your review about the gun.
I find the G3C to be an accurate, easy-to-shoot, and dependable short range CCW gun with the following exception:
When using the Russian Tulammo steel jacketed 9mm ammo in the G3C (not tried in the PT111 Millenium) I experienced an average of one failure to eject slide jam with each magazine of 12 cartridges. And, NOT A SINGLE FAILURE of any kind using good quality FMJ ammo from Winchester, Hornady, or Seller & Bellot. So, let shooters beware of Tulammo in this gun.
Only thing I would change is to bring back the raised chamber loaded indicator because you can feel it in the dark as opposed to the tiny viewing notch on the G3C.
Frank
I mean, it's tulamo, we're you expecting another results?
The G3c also is DA in a way, you don’t have to rack it each time to pull the trigger.
The only improvement I see that they need to make is to bring ack a FULLY adjustable rear sight.
My son and I both have G2C's and have at least a couple thousand rounds through each without a single hiccup. Can't think of a reason to change. Besides, I got mine in a limited edition dark puple and black color which isn't offered in the G3 or G3C so I'm sticking with my favorite color! :-)
On the G2C, you can't rack the slide with the safety on. Is that also the case with the G3C?
Same case. You can't rack the slide on the G3C with the safety on either. ( Why would you want to anyway?)
Yes
I don't get why so many people get mad at it having a manual safety... Since it's actually a SINGLE ACTION pistol, even if this information is kept with discretion...
Would you go there with a 1911 with one in the chamber, trigger pulled... And no safety? Most of us wouldn't.
Hey, it's the same with the G2c, G3 AND G3c!
I’ve got a large safe stuffed full of some beautiful, pricey guns and am an avid believer in the axiom that you generally get what you pay for. On a lark, I bought the a G2C for $155 (after rebate) and it has proven to be the exception to the rule. Thought it would be a cheap gun that occasionally got some use at the range, but love it so much that I shoot it at IDPA in CCP cat. At roughly 1500 rounds fired through it, not a single problem. My only complaint was the front sight being hard to see - for $30, I swapped it out for a fiber optic (brilliant). That noted, I like the the g2c rear sight is adjustable- the only thing keeping me from buying a g3c over the a g2c for my father-in-law. Inclusion of magazines is AWESOME, and front serrations on slide are great upgrades, as is the updrade of steel sights... make them adjustable and I’m in!
Also, THANKS for doing a review on these two versions of a value oriented gun... good information for folks!
I love that Taurus is stepping their game up for entry level guns with decent quality. For my tastes though, I need aftermarket support. I'm not one to leave a gun stock after a bit. Besides reliability, Glock's biggest advantage is aftermarket support. Sig is finally jumping on that bandwagon with the custom P320/365 lines.
I pocket-carried a TCP-738 .380 for years. I would routinely pull it out at the range, pocket lint, under oiled and all and it worked perfectly...until it didnt...at around 1000 rounds, the trigger pull stacked up super firm and it wouldn't fire, and would sometimes fire on release. Not exactly a clearable malfunction. Sent it back to Taurus, got a message saying there was nothing wrong with it. When it came back 2 months later it worked like new. Perhaps a UPS fairy gunsmithed the trigger mechanism. Shot another few hundreds rounds flawlessly, carried for awhile but never really trusted it, so then switched to a P365 which has been perfect since day one. Would I recommend or sell my now "perfectly reliable" Taurus to a friend, newbie or anyone else? No. So it sits in the safe and only comes out when a newb wants to learn about the different sizes and styles of carry options. Bring on the 10k round torture test and I'll revisit. Chuck, below, nailed it...an hour or two at the range every year is not enough, 2-4 days of all-day shooting is needed to really test a firearm's mettle.
I liked the Taurus G3C review and the 3 mags DOES sound great in the fact that they hold 12 rounds is even better, i have always been interested in the Taurus Judge but never purchased one, but I just might go out a get the G3C for my wife and get myself a Judge. thank you.
From what I have heard the Judge breaks a lot, and the Taurus customer service and repair response times are horrible. They have a huge backlog and people have been waiting months for the Judges to be repaired. You might want to check on whether that has changed before you buy a Judge. But I own a G2C and love it. It's a solid gun. I've run about 500 rounds through it before the pandemic, and it was a rental at the range I go to before that.
Actually, I've never had a bad Taurus. The only slow service I've had with them was during the move to Georgia, then the parts I ordered came right through. I have several and have found the PT1911s to be every bit as accurate as my Kimber that cost over twice as much. The PT92 is every bit as dependable and accurate as the Berretta. Toss some oversized grips on them and you're good to go. (But I put oversized grips on everything.)
Couldn't agree more about 3 magazines being an excellent feature. I'm always put off whenever manufacturers make an entry-level or lower priced version of a flagship gun, but only include one magazine. My biggest issue with the one or two magazine practice is not the price of additional mags, its that mags for new models can be difficult to come by. I remember owning a Glock 43X for quite some time before additional magazines were readily available in stores. I'm not a huge Taurus fan, but I give them credit for this feature.
I do not like reviews like this because they focus on features and such but not true quality and durability. I teach concealed carry classes that have two four hours shooting sessions. It is rare for a Taurus to last the whole class. I once asked a group of trainers who primarily teach longer format classes of four and five days if they had ever had a Taurus of any kind last the whole glass. None had. They use poor metalurgy and have poor quality control. Spend the extra hundred dollars or so and get something that will last. I hate it when I see somebody show up with a Taurus or SCCY pistol. I've had some not last 50 rounds before going down.
Bingo
I have a Taurus PT111 Millenium. Does anyone know where I can find magazines? Yes the old Millenium
It seems the G2C magazine is compatible with the PT111. Try to find someone who has a G2C and test it. Regards.
Yes they do, I Have both G2c & 111G2, they will interchange , thinking about the G3c, I Have installed the Keeptinkering Triggers on Both of them as well as my 709, the SA/DA , works fantastic , Both have about 1200 so far with no problems , being conservative about ammo now , so I clean them so the run Flawless,
Just got mine. Can't wait to go to the range to try it out. I was going to get the G2C but after seeing some other reviews that compared the two, I went with the G3C.
My grandson needed a pistol for home defense so I gave him my G2S which has flawlessly shot over 1,000 rounds in weather from 35 to 95 degrees. Used factory but mostly reloaded ammo. Thumbs up across the board.
I bought the G3C & out of 250 rounds only one hiccup, all reloaded ammo. Pretty decent grouping, center mass at 7 yards. I fully expect to have the same great success as I did the G2S! Taurus has definitely upped their game.
PS
Say what you want about having a safety....I like & have no problems with having one on mine.
Well Johnny I am a first time visitor and the review was ok. Here is what you missed;
1. The G2c has a tactile chamber indicator. A Witness hole is useless in the dark.
2. Not much difference in the triggers, double strike capability is paramount.
3. Sights on the G2c are adjustable and plastic a + and -. Can alway drift in another rear sight.
4. Having two or three magazines is only handy if you are at the range, If you need 3 mags you must be signing up for the USMC and getting ready to Deploy. If not you are living in the wrong neighborhood.
5. For the money the G2c is a better deal and either pistol from Taurus has really jumped into this market area and is all but leading the Pack for my 2 cents.
Just bought one: and out of the box shot a match with it no problems at all
just more reloads than the guys with their full size extended magazine guns. I used a leather Glock sized belt slide holster worked fine. A good shooter.
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