Top 5 Problems of the Taurus GX2: Common Issues and How to Address Them

The Taurus GX2 has become a popular choice for many people looking for a compact and affordable 9mm handgun. Its lightweight design and easy handling make it appealing for personal defense and everyday carry.

Understanding the main issues some users have faced with the Taurus GX2 can help buyers make a better choice and get the most out of their firearm. This article covers the most common problems that owners have reported, offering helpful insights for those considering the GX2.

1) Frequent light primer strikes causing inconsistent firing

Some Taurus GX2 users notice that their pistols occasionally have light primer strikes. This means the firing pin hits the primer but does not strike hard enough to fire the round. As a result, the gun might not fire when the trigger is pulled.

Several causes can lead to this issue. Dirt, oil, or factory grease in the firing pin channel can slow the firing pin. Even new guns sometimes have this problem if they are not cleaned before first use. A weak or dirty firing pin spring can also play a role.

Sometimes, the problem is with the ammunition. If the primer is seated too deep or is too hard, it may not ignite even with a proper hit. This can happen with some factory or reloaded ammo.

Mechanical issues, such as a worn firing pin or spring, are also possible. Some shooters have fixed the problem by cleaning the gun thoroughly or replacing worn parts. This problem needs attention, as it leads to inconsistent firing and can cause frustration at the range.

2) Dead trigger after firing multiple rounds from one magazine

Some Taurus GX2 owners have reported a problem with the trigger not working after firing several rounds in the same magazine. This issue is often called a "dead trigger." When this happens, pulling the trigger does not fire the gun, even though a round may be chambered.

Users on gun forums describe the trigger resetting forward, but with no resistance or firing when pressed. This can make the gun stop working in the middle of shooting. Some have noticed the dead trigger appears randomly, making it hard to predict or prevent.

A dead trigger issue can sometimes be fixed by cycling the slide or following the "tap, rack, bang" method. However, if it keeps happening, it may point to a mechanical problem that needs attention from a gunsmith or Taurus support.

Not everyone experiences this, but it is a problem that some GX2 owners have raised online. Routine cleaning and inspection of the gun parts may help reduce the risk, but it does not guarantee that the issue will not occur.

3) Magazine drop issues affecting reliable feeding

Some Taurus GX2 users experience problems with magazines dropping unexpectedly from the grip during shooting. This can interrupt the firing process and may lead to feeding failures. If the magazine is not seated all the way, the next round might not load into the chamber correctly.

Usually, this issue is linked to the magazine catch or release mechanism. A worn or improperly fitted magazine catch may not hold the magazine tightly. Even slight movement of the magazine can cause it to drop or shift, leading to feeding issues.

In some cases, the shape or wear on the magazine itself could also be a cause. Damaged or bent feed lips can affect how the magazine fits and feeds rounds into the pistol. Poor spring tension inside the magazine can also contribute to feeding failures, according to multiple firearm forums like the Taurus Firearm Forum.

Cleaning and inspecting both the magazine and the catch can help. If problems continue, replacing worn parts with factory replacements is often recommended for best reliability.

4) Slide failing to stay open after last round

Some Taurus GX2 owners have reported that the slide does not stay open after firing the last round. This can make it hard to know when the magazine is empty and slow down reloading.

One possible reason is that the slide stop is not engaging properly. This can happen if the shooter’s thumb touches the slide stop during firing or if there’s a problem with the magazine follower. A bent or worn slide stop may also cause this issue.

Dirt, debris, or weak springs in the magazine can stop the follower from pushing up the slide stop. In some cases, users have found that swapping to a different magazine or cleaning the existing one helps.

Issues with manufacturing, such as burrs inside the magazine tube, have been noted as a cause in other similar pistols. Removing any burrs or sharp spots inside the magazine may help the slide lock back reliably.

Proper cleaning and maintenance, along with checking for worn parts, often solve the problem. If the slide still fails to stay open, it may be necessary to have the pistol inspected by a gunsmith.

5) Malfunctions with specific ammunition like Blazer Aluminum 115

Some Taurus GX2 owners have reported issues when using certain types of ammunition. Blazer Aluminum 115 grain ammo appears to be one of the most common culprits. Users have noticed more malfunctions like failures to eject or feed when compared to brass-cased options.

The issue may stem from the properties of aluminum casings. Aluminum cases can be less flexible than brass and might not expand and contract as well during firing. This can sometimes cause extraction or feeding problems in semi-automatic pistols such as the GX2.

Online discussions show that shooters using Blazer Aluminum 115 have seen more jams and misfeeds, while switching back to brass ammo often improves reliability. For example, some shooters noted consistent failure to eject problems after switching to Blazer aluminum in their pistols, despite no difficulties with other ammo types.

More users have shared similar experiences with different firearms as well, not just the GX2. If you notice your GX2 struggling with aluminum-cased ammo, it may be worth trying a brass-cased alternative to reduce malfunctions.

Understanding Taurus GX2 Design Limitations

The Taurus GX2 has gained popularity for its compact size and affordability. However, some design choices can create challenges for reliability and durability that matter to owners.

Common Causes of Reliability Issues

Several users have reported problems such as jamming, misfeeds, and magazines dropping unexpectedly right out of the box. These issues often stem from specific parts and design weaknesses rather than misuse. For example, the slide may not lock open after the last round due to fitment problems with slide stop components, which can affect reloading speed and safety.

A common source of jamming is rough or poorly finished feed ramps, which can cause cartridges to snag while cycling. Magazine retention faults, where the magazine drops or fails to lock, have been highlighted in owner feedback, especially in defensive situations. Sometimes minor frame flex or tolerance inconsistencies in the polymer grip can also result in stoppages or faulty controls, which can be frustrating for users who rely on the pistol for personal defense.

Below is a quick list of common reliability complaints:

• Failure to feed (FTF)

• Failure to eject (FTE)

• Magazine dropping unexpectedly

• Slide not locking open

These problems are discussed with more personal experience in this Taurus Armed forum thread.

Impact of Build Materials on Longevity

The Taurus GX2 uses a polymer frame and several internal parts made from affordable metals or cast components. While this approach helps keep the price low, it may impact long-term durability. Over time, areas like slide rails and locking block interfaces can show increased wear, especially if the gun is used heavily.

Plastic components can also flex more than steel equivalents, leading to reliability issues as the gun ages or when firing high volumes of ammunition. In addition, certain pins and springs housed in the polymer may shift or weaken over thousands of rounds, reducing overall reliability.

A brief comparison of material choices in the Taurus GX2:

Choosing cost-effective materials does not always mean a gun will fail quickly, but in the GX2, these factors have led to specific complaints about longevity. Some users note the GX2 does not inspire the same confidence as all-metal designs, such as the older Taurus 85 or Taurus 92 series highlighted in discussions on TexAgs.

Best Practices for Taurus GX2 Maintenance

Regular care helps prevent common issues and keeps the Taurus GX2 shooting smoothly. Proper cleaning and using quality ammunition support both reliability and safety.

Routine Cleaning Tips

Consistent cleaning is important for the Taurus GX2. Dirt, powder residue, and moisture can build up and cause malfunctions. It’s recommended to clean the pistol after each trip to the range or at least every few hundred rounds.

Remove the magazine and check the chamber to confirm the gun is unloaded before starting.
Disassemble the GX2 by removing the slide, barrel, and recoil spring. Use a soft brush and a cleaning solvent made for firearms to clean all parts. Focus extra attention on the feed ramp and the slide rails, as these can gather grime quickly.

After cleaning, wipe all parts dry and apply a small amount of oil to the moving metal parts. Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt. Reassemble and check that the action works properly. There are helpful visual guides and step-by-step videos, such as this GX2 disassembly guide, for beginners.

Recommended Ammunition Choices

The Taurus GX2 works best with high-quality, factory-made ammunition. Using low-quality or improper ammo may lead to misfeeds, light primer strikes, or extraction problems.

Many shooters find that brass-cased 9mm rounds from reliable brands, such as Federal, Winchester, or Remington, have the best performance. Avoid steel or aluminum-cased ammo, as these can sometimes cause malfunctions or extra wear. Reports have shown that some users experienced problems when using Blazer Aluminum 115 grain.

Stick to bullet weights between 115 and 147 grains, as these are the most widely tested. If issues happen with a certain ammo type, try a different, well-known brand to see if performance improves. Always check that the ammunition matches the manufacturer’s specifications before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Taurus GX2 faces several recurring problems that affect reliability, performance, and long-term durability. Owners report issues with firing, feeding, and how some parts handle extended use.

What are the common reliability issues with the Taurus GX2?

Many users report frequent light primer strikes, which can cause inconsistent firing. Others experience a dead trigger after firing several rounds from the same magazine. Problems with the slide failing to lock open are also commonly mentioned.

How does the Taurus GX2 perform under prolonged use?

Performance over time appears mixed. Some owners notice reliability dropping after frequent use, such as more frequent malfunctions and trigger issues. A few have seen increased magazine drop problems after repeated shooting sessions.

Are there any recurring maintenance challenges for the Taurus GX2?

Cleaning and maintaining the GX2 can be straightforward, but certain issues persist. Some users find that the internals require more frequent cleaning to avoid malfunctions. Others mention that parts like the striker assembly may need attention sooner than expected.

What are the top complaints from owners of the Taurus GX2?

The most common complaints include light primer strikes, magazine drops, and the slide not staying open after the last round. Some owners are also frustrated by how the pistol handles different brands of ammunition.

How does the Taurus GX2 handle ammunition feeding and extraction problems?

Many problems are related to specific ammunition types, such as malfunctions with Blazer Aluminum 115. Feeding and extraction issues can cause failures to fire or eject, especially if the GX2 is not cleaned often or is fed lower-quality ammo.

Which parts of the Taurus GX2 are prone to premature wear or failure?

The striker assembly and magazine catch are two areas where owners have seen premature wear or failure. Some also report that springs related to the trigger and slide release may weaken faster than expected, increasing the chance of malfunctions.