Taurus 709 Slim: A Comprehensive Guide, Review, and Owner’s Manual

The Taurus 709 Slim: a name that evokes strong opinions among firearm enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or considering your first concealed carry pistol, the Taurus 709 Slim presents a compelling, albeit controversial, option. This comprehensive guide aims to provide an unbiased, in-depth look at the 709 Slim, exploring its features, benefits, drawbacks, and overall value proposition. We’ll delve into the specifics of this subcompact 9mm pistol, providing the information you need to make an informed decision.

Understanding the Taurus 709 Slim: A Deep Dive

The Taurus 709 Slim is a polymer-framed, striker-fired, single-stack 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry. Its slim profile and lightweight construction make it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and easily concealable handgun. The pistol’s design prioritizes simplicity and ease of use, making it accessible to both experienced shooters and newcomers to the world of firearms.

However, the Taurus 709 Slim has had a somewhat checkered past. Early models were plagued by reliability issues, leading to recalls and a tarnished reputation. Taurus has since addressed many of these concerns with design improvements and enhanced quality control measures. The current generation of the 709 Slim aims to deliver a more dependable and accurate shooting experience.

The Taurus 709 Slim operates on a short recoil, locked breech principle, a common design found in many modern handguns. This system helps to manage recoil and ensure reliable cycling of ammunition. The pistol features a manual safety lever, a trigger safety, and a firing pin block, providing multiple layers of safety for the user.

Recent industry analysis suggests a growing demand for reliable, affordable, and easily concealable firearms. The Taurus 709 Slim attempts to meet this demand, offering a compact and lightweight package at a competitive price point.

The Taurus Brand: A Brief Overview

Taurus is a well-known manufacturer in the firearms industry, producing a wide range of handguns, rifles, and shotguns. The company has a long history, dating back to its founding in Brazil in 1939. Taurus has faced both praise and criticism over the years, with some models earning a reputation for reliability and value, while others have been plagued by quality control issues.

Despite past challenges, Taurus has made significant efforts to improve its manufacturing processes and quality control standards. The company has invested in modern technology and implemented stricter quality assurance measures to enhance the reliability and durability of its firearms. The Taurus 709 Slim represents the company’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible firearms to a wide range of consumers.

Key Features of the Taurus 709 Slim

The Taurus 709 Slim boasts several key features designed to enhance its usability, concealability, and overall value. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most notable features:

Slim Profile: As the name suggests, the 709 Slim features a narrow profile, making it easy to conceal under clothing. This is a crucial consideration for concealed carry permit holders.
Lightweight Construction: The polymer frame contributes to the pistol’s lightweight design, reducing fatigue during extended carry. This makes it a comfortable option for all-day wear.
Single-Stack Magazine: The single-stack magazine further enhances the pistol’s slimness, while still providing a reasonable capacity of 7+1 rounds.
Striker-Fired Action: The striker-fired action offers a consistent trigger pull and eliminates the need for an external hammer, contributing to a smoother and more snag-free draw.
Manual Safety: The manual safety lever provides an added layer of security, allowing the user to disable the trigger when the pistol is not in use.
Adjustable Rear Sight: The adjustable rear sight allows users to fine-tune the pistol’s accuracy to their specific shooting style and ammunition preferences.
Accessory Rail: The accessory rail located on the frame allows for the attachment of lights or lasers, enhancing the pistol’s versatility for low-light conditions.

Let’s explore these features in more detail:

Slim Profile and Concealability

The Taurus 709 Slim’s defining characteristic is its slim profile. Measuring just over an inch in width, it minimizes printing under clothing, a crucial factor for comfortable and discreet concealed carry. This feature directly addresses the needs of users who prioritize concealability without sacrificing firepower.

Lightweight Design

The use of a polymer frame significantly reduces the overall weight of the 709 Slim. This lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods, whether in an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster or other concealed carry methods. A lighter gun is less likely to cause fatigue or discomfort, making it a more practical choice for everyday carry.

Single-Stack Magazine

While double-stack magazines offer higher capacity, they also increase the width of the grip. The Taurus 709 Slim utilizes a single-stack magazine to maintain its slim profile. The 7+1 round capacity provides a reasonable balance between concealability and firepower. Users can also purchase extended magazines for increased capacity, although this will slightly compromise the pistol’s slimness.

Striker-Fired Action

The striker-fired action contributes to a consistent trigger pull, which can improve accuracy. The absence of an external hammer also reduces the risk of snagging on clothing during a draw. The trigger pull on the 709 Slim is generally considered to be acceptable for a defensive pistol, although some users may prefer to upgrade the trigger for a smoother and lighter pull.

Manual Safety

The manual safety lever provides an added layer of security, particularly for those who are new to firearms or prefer to carry with a safety engaged. The safety lever is easily accessible and can be quickly disengaged when needed. However, it’s important to practice regularly with the safety to ensure proficiency in its use.

Adjustable Rear Sight

The adjustable rear sight allows users to fine-tune the pistol’s accuracy to their specific shooting style and ammunition preferences. This is a valuable feature for those who want to optimize the pistol’s performance for their individual needs. Adjusting the rear sight can compensate for variations in ammunition and shooting technique.

Accessory Rail

The accessory rail located on the frame allows for the attachment of lights or lasers, enhancing the pistol’s versatility for low-light conditions. This is a useful feature for home defense or for those who may need to identify targets in low-light environments. The accessory rail allows users to customize the pistol to their specific needs and preferences.

The Advantages and Benefits of Owning a Taurus 709 Slim

The Taurus 709 Slim offers several significant advantages and benefits to its owners, particularly those seeking a reliable and affordable concealed carry option:

Affordability: The 709 Slim is one of the most budget-friendly 9mm pistols on the market, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Concealability: Its slim profile and lightweight design make it exceptionally easy to conceal, even under light clothing.
Ease of Use: The simple design and straightforward operation make it easy to learn and use, even for novice shooters.
Reliability (Improved): While early models had issues, the current generation of the 709 Slim has seen significant improvements in reliability.
Adequate Power: Chambered in 9mm, the 709 Slim offers sufficient stopping power for self-defense situations.

Let’s delve deeper into these advantages:

Unbeatable Affordability

One of the most compelling reasons to consider the Taurus 709 Slim is its price point. It consistently ranks among the most affordable 9mm pistols available, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers or those looking for a backup firearm. The affordability doesn’t necessarily equate to cheapness; rather, it reflects Taurus’s commitment to providing value-driven firearms.

Exceptional Concealability

For concealed carry, the 709 Slim excels due to its slim profile. The narrow slide and frame minimize printing, allowing for discreet carry under a variety of clothing styles. This is a crucial factor for individuals who prioritize concealment and want a handgun that won’t draw unwanted attention.

User-Friendly Design

The Taurus 709 Slim is designed with simplicity in mind. The controls are intuitive and easy to operate, making it a user-friendly option for both experienced and novice shooters. The lack of complex features reduces the learning curve and allows users to quickly become proficient with the handgun.

Enhanced Reliability

While past models of the 709 Slim faced reliability concerns, Taurus has made significant improvements in recent years. The current generation of the pistol incorporates design enhancements and stricter quality control measures to ensure more dependable performance. Many users report experiencing reliable operation with a variety of ammunition types.

9mm Stopping Power

The 9mm cartridge is a widely respected and effective round for self-defense. The Taurus 709 Slim, chambered in 9mm, provides sufficient stopping power to neutralize threats in a self-defense situation. The 9mm cartridge offers a good balance between recoil and effectiveness, making it manageable for most shooters.

Taurus 709 Slim: An In-Depth Review

Now, let’s move on to a comprehensive review of the Taurus 709 Slim, considering its performance, usability, and overall value.

User Experience and Usability

The Taurus 709 Slim is generally considered to be a comfortable and easy-to-use pistol. The grip is relatively small, making it suitable for shooters with smaller hands. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive to operate. The pistol’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods.

However, some users may find the grip to be too small, particularly those with larger hands. An aftermarket grip sleeve can improve the ergonomics and provide a more secure hold. The trigger pull is also a common point of contention, with some users finding it to be too heavy or gritty. An aftermarket trigger can improve the trigger pull and enhance the shooting experience.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Taurus 709 Slim is capable of delivering acceptable accuracy for self-defense purposes. With practice, most shooters can achieve consistent groupings at typical self-defense distances. The pistol’s short barrel can make it more challenging to shoot accurately at longer ranges.

Reliability is a key consideration for any defensive firearm. While earlier versions of the 709 Slim were prone to malfunctions, the current generation has shown significant improvements. However, it’s still essential to thoroughly test the pistol with a variety of ammunition types to ensure reliable operation. Regular cleaning and maintenance are also crucial for maintaining the pistol’s reliability.

Pros:

Affordable Price: One of the most budget-friendly 9mm options.
Excellent Concealability: Slim profile minimizes printing.
Lightweight and Comfortable: Easy to carry for extended periods.
Improved Reliability: Newer models are more dependable.
Easy to Operate: Simple design is user-friendly.

Cons/Limitations:

Small Grip: May not be comfortable for shooters with large hands.
Trigger Pull: The trigger pull can be heavy and gritty.
Recoil: The lightweight design can result in increased felt recoil.
Limited Capacity: The single-stack magazine has a lower capacity than double-stack options.

Ideal User Profile

The Taurus 709 Slim is best suited for individuals who prioritize concealability, affordability, and ease of use. It’s a good option for those who are new to firearms or who have smaller hands. It’s also a viable choice for those seeking a backup firearm or a discreet concealed carry option.

Key Alternatives

Some popular alternatives to the Taurus 709 Slim include the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield and the Glock 43. The M&P Shield offers similar concealability and reliability, while the Glock 43 is known for its Glock reliability and aftermarket support. These alternatives may come at a higher price point but offer enhanced features or performance.

Expert Verdict & Recommendation

The Taurus 709 Slim presents a compelling option for those seeking an affordable and concealable 9mm pistol. While it has faced challenges in the past, recent improvements have enhanced its reliability and overall value. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations, such as the small grip and trigger pull. Overall, the Taurus 709 Slim is a viable choice for budget-conscious individuals who prioritize concealability and ease of use, but thorough testing and evaluation are recommended before relying on it for self-defense.

Final Thoughts on the Taurus 709 Slim

The Taurus 709 Slim represents an interesting intersection of affordability, concealability, and practicality in the world of concealed carry pistols. It’s a handgun that demands careful consideration, balancing its budget-friendly price point against the need for thorough testing and familiarization. The improvements made to the 709 Slim over the years are evident, addressing many of the initial concerns regarding reliability. However, potential owners should still prioritize range time and proper maintenance to ensure consistent performance.

Ultimately, the Taurus 709 Slim can be a valuable tool for self-defense, particularly for those who prioritize a slim profile and lightweight design. Share your experiences with the Taurus 709 Slim in the comments below and contribute to the ongoing discussion about this popular concealed carry pistol.