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The Taurus 942 is a compact revolver produced by Taurus, designed for both self-defense and recreational shooting. Released in recent years, this 8-shot revolver chambered in .22 Mag offers a lightweight design, durable construction, and manageable recoil, making it a popular choice among gun owners. Its versatility makes it well-suited for target practice, plinking, or as a backup firearm for concealed carry.
However, while the Taurus 942 3 inch has plenty of strengths, it's not without its challenges. Many users, myself included, have experienced a few recurring issues with the revolver. Read on to discover the most common Taurus 942 problems and, more importantly, how to fix them. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to decide whether the Taurus 942 is the right choice for you.
Meet Taurus 942: Main Specs & Problems Outlined
The Taurus 942 with a 3-inch barrel, chambered in .22 Mag, is a compact Taurus handgun designed for both self-defense and target practice. The Taurus 942 3 inch features an 8-round cylinder, making it a solid choice for those who prefer a revolver with higher capacity. The gun is constructed from stainless steel or aluminum alloy, providing a durable and lightweight frame. Equipped with fixed front and rear sights, the Taurus 942’s accuracy is sufficient for close to mid-range shooting. The longer 3-inch barrel offers improved balance and handling over shorter-barreled variants.
Looking to learn more about the main features of the Taurus 942? Check out our detailed Taurus 942 review and see why it’s a revolver you should consider.
Despite its advantages, I’ve noticed a few recurring issues with the Taurus 942. In the next sections, we’ll discuss the heavy trigger pull, misfires with certain ammunition, cylinder lockup, and inconsistencies in accuracy. Alright, without further ado, let’s take a detailed look at the most troublesome Taurus 942 issues and how they can be easily solved.
Taurus 942 Problems: Taurus 942 heavy trigger pull issue and how to fix it
The Taurus 942 is often criticized for its heavy trigger pull, especially in double-action mode. Many users, including myself, have found that the trigger can be quite stiff, making it difficult to fire smoothly without significant effort. On average, the trigger pull weight for the Taurus 942 3 inch in double-action mode can range between 12 to 14 pounds, which is heavier compared to other revolvers in the same class. This can be a problem for shooters who prefer a lighter, more responsive trigger, particularly when rapid or accurate follow-up shots are needed. The heavy pull also contributes to fatigue during extended shooting sessions, making it a notable drawback of this Taurus handgun.
The trigger pull in single-action mode is much lighter, but the double-action pull remains one of the most frequent complaints associated with this revolver.
How to solve Taurus 942 heavy trigger pull problem
To solve the heavy trigger pull issue on the Taurus 942, the most effective solution is to replace the factory-installed hammer spring with a lighter one. This simple modification can significantly reduce the trigger pull weight, making it easier and smoother to shoot in double-action mode. Many shooters have found that swapping in a reduced-power Wolff spring, for example, can lower the pull to a more manageable 8 to 10 pounds without sacrificing reliability.
Another common fix is to have a gunsmith perform a trigger job. This involves polishing the internal components to reduce friction, which can further smooth out the trigger action. While this method can be more expensive, it is a professional and permanent solution that enhances overall performance.
Taurus 942 Problems: Taurus 942 cylinder lockup issue and how to fix it
The worst problem I’ve experienced with the Taurus 942 is definitely the cylinder lockup issue. After firing several rounds, particularly when using .22 Mag ammo, the cylinder would gradually become harder to rotate until it eventually locked up completely. This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience—it stopped the revolver from functioning altogether.
I found this to be particularly frustrating during longer shooting sessions, where the buildup of carbon and powder residue around the cylinder and barrel gap seemed to be the main culprit. What made it even worse was the occasional timing issue, where the cylinder wouldn’t align properly with the barrel, adding to the problem. When you’re in the middle of a range session, the last thing you want is a gun that won’t fire. In my experience, this was by far the most troublesome aspect of the Taurus 942 3 inch.
How to solve Taurus 942 cylinder lockup problem
To solve the cylinder lockup issue on the Taurus 942, the first step I took was to thoroughly clean the revolver after every shooting session, focusing on the cylinder and barrel gap. Carbon and powder residue buildup is a common cause of this problem, and keeping the area clean significantly reduced the frequency of lockups. I also lightly lubricated the cylinder to ensure smoother rotation.
I polished the cylinder face and the forcing cone area. This helped minimize friction and further reduced the chances of the cylinder binding during extended use. If the problem persists, some shooters recommend having a gunsmith check the timing to ensure proper alignment between the cylinder and barrel, which can sometimes be slightly off. For more persistent lockup problems, replacing the cylinder stop plunger can make a big difference. This component is crucial for proper cylinder rotation and locking.
Taurus 942 Problems: Taurus 942 misfire issue and how to fix it
One of the more frustrating issues I’ve encountered with the Taurus 942 is its tendency to misfire, especially when using .22 Mag ammunition. Misfires generally happen due to light primer strikes, where the firing pin doesn’t hit the primer with enough force to ignite the round. This has been a common issue not only for me but for many other Taurus 942 owners as well.
What makes it particularly annoying is the unpredictability—sometimes the revolver runs flawlessly, and other times you’ll experience multiple misfires in a single session. While lower-quality ammo is more prone to this issue, even premium brands have caused misfires with this revolver. The inconsistency makes it difficult to rely on, especially in self-defense situations, which is a big concern for many Taurus handgun owners.
How to solve Taurus 942 misfire problem
To solve the misfire issue on the Taurus 942, the first step I took was to switch to higher-quality ammunition with harder primers. In my experience, using premium rounds significantly reduced the number of light primer strikes. Another fix that worked for me was to replace the factory hammer spring with a slightly heavier one. This increased the force of the firing pin, ensuring a more reliable primer strike and reducing misfires.
Additionally, I inspected the firing pin for wear or damage, as a worn firing pin can contribute to light strikes. If you're comfortable with minor modifications, this is an easy part to replace.
Taurus 942 Problems: Choosing the right Taurus 942 holster
Choosing the right Taurus 942 holster is crucial for ensuring both comfort and quick access to your revolver, especially given its compact size and intended use for self-defense. When selecting a holster for the Taurus 942, consider your preferred carry style, such as IWB (inside the waistband) for concealment or OWB (outside the waistband) for easier access. Materials are also important—leather Taurus 942 holsters provide comfort and durability, while kydex offers better retention and a slim profile.
Your experience as a shooter and the intended use of the revolver should also guide your decision. If you're new to carrying, you might prefer a holster with adjustable retention for added security. Additionally, consider how easily you can draw from the holster, as quick accessibility is key in a self-defense situation.
Best Taurus 942 holsters by Craft Holsters
Craft Holsters is the best place to buy a holster for the Taurus 942 3 inch, thanks to their focus on premium leather craftsmanship, custom fit, and reasonable prices. Each holster is designed with retention, comfort, and quick draw in mind, making them ideal for both self-defense and everyday carry.
One of the best Taurus 942 holsters available is the Taurus 942 - 3" IWB Holster w Steel Clip, which offers a secure, comfortable fit for concealed carry. The steel clip ensures the holster stays in place, and the premium leather provides excellent comfort against the body.
Another great option is the Taurus 942 - 3" Shoulder Holster System, designed for those who prefer a shoulder carry setup. This holster offers a custom fit, balanced weight distribution, and quick access to your revolver, making it perfect for all-day wear.
Conclusion - Should I buy Taurus 942 despite its problems?
Despite the issues I’ve experienced with the Taurus 942, such as a heavy trigger pull, occasional cylinder lockup, and misfires, each of these problems can be effectively solved. Now that you know how to fix these issues, the revolver remains a solid option for those looking for a compact, affordable .22 Mag revolver. Just as important as addressing these problems is choosing the right Taurus 942 holster for your preferred carry style, ensuring comfort and quick access.
The Taurus 942 3 inch is a great choice for plinking, target shooting, or as a backup self-defense gun, especially for shooters who value affordability and ease of use. However, if you're looking for a primary self-defense weapon with flawless reliability, this revolver might not be your best option. In the end, it's all about knowing your needs and how this handgun fits them.
