Frt 15 is a Houston, TX-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories for families and responsible shooters. The Taurus 942 22 Long Rifle 2in Stainless Revolver is a compact, 8-shot revolver chambered in .22 LR. Its stainless steel construction and manageable recoil make it an outstanding choice for introducing new shooters to handguns. Available now for $359.99, a significant savings from the regular $399.99 price.
Reviewed by Jake Thornton, Lead Armorer at Frt 15. 12+ years building and modifying Glock platforms, 200+ switches tested.
Last updated: March 2026
Who Is This Taurus 942 Revolver For?
After countless range days teaching families, I’ve seen what works. This isn’t a duty gun or a competition piece. Think of it as the .22 rimfire equivalent of a reliable training rifle. It’s for the parent looking to build confidence in their teenager, the new gun owner wanting a simple, safe first handgun, or the seasoned shooter who needs an affordable plinker that won’t break the bank on ammo. If you’re after a tool for foundational skills—sight picture, trigger control, safe handling—this revolver is a solid starting point.
Key Features of the Taurus 942 2″ Stainless
- Stainless Steel Frame & Barrel: The all-stainless construction isn’t just for looks. It resists corrosion from humidity and sweat, which is a real concern here in Houston. It’s a durable platform that can handle being stored in a nightstand or taken to the range regularly without constant worry.
- 8-Round Cylinder Capacity: In a .22 revolver, capacity matters more than you might think. Eight rounds means less time reloading during a training session and more time focusing on fundamentals. Compared to typical 6-shot .22 revolvers, those extra two rounds make a difference in keeping a new shooter engaged.
- 2-Inch Barrel & Compact Size: The short barrel makes for a balanced, easy-to-point firearm. It’s not designed for 50-yard precision; it’s designed for controllability and comfort, especially for shooters with smaller hands. The overall size makes it a practical option for a backpack or vehicle kit.
- Double/Single Action Trigger: This is a fantastic feature for training. You can start a new shooter in single-action mode for learning precise trigger pull. As they advance, they can practice the longer, heavier double-action pull, which builds finger strength and discipline. It’s like having two training tools in one.
- Fixed Sights: The low-profile fixed sights are simple and snag-free. They’re set from the factory and don’t require a new shooter to fiddle with adjustments. It teaches them to trust their sights and focus on the basics of marksmanship.
- Rubber Grips: The included rubber grips absorb what little recoil .22 LR produces and provide a secure, non-slip hold. They’re practical and functional, exactly what you need on a tool meant for learning.
How It Stacks Up: Taurus 942 vs. The Competition
Let’s be real—not all .22 revolvers are created equal. Having handled everything from budget imports to heirloom-quality pieces, here’s how the Taurus 942 fits into the landscape.
| Feature | Taurus 942 2″ Stainless (This Model) | Budget Import .22 Revolver (~$60-80) | Premium Brand .22 Revolver (~$600+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Stainless steel frame/barrel. Solid mid-tier fit and finish. | Often alloy or pot metal frames. Finish wears quickly. | Forged steel, exceptional hand-fitted finish. |
| Quality & Reliability | Good reliability for its class. Built to handle standard .22 LR ammo consistently. | Inconsistent. Often plagued with timing issues and light strikes. | Exceptional. Bank-on-it reliability and smooth operation. |
| Compatibility | Designed for standard .22 Long Rifle ammo. Handles LR, L, S. | May only cycle specific ammo types. Finicky. | Broad ammo compatibility, often including .22 WMR. |
| Shipping & Service | Backed by Taurus warranty. Parts and service readily available. | Little to no warranty support. Parts are scarce. | Strong warranty and customer service from established maker. |
| Lifespan & Durability | Will last for thousands of rounds with proper care. A long-term tool. | Durability is a major question. Often a “disposable” firearm. | Lifetime-plus durability. Can be passed down generations. |
| Price Point | $359.99 (Sale Price). Exceptional value for the quality. | Very low initial cost. | Significant investment. |
The takeaway? The Taurus 942 occupies a crucial middle ground. It’s not the cheapest option you’ll regret buying, nor is it a luxury purchase. It’s a working man’s (or family’s) .22 revolver that delivers reliable performance without the premium price tag.
Detailed Specifications
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel (Frame & Barrel) |
| Manufacturing | Machined & Assembled by Taurus |
| Finish | Brushed Stainless |
| Hardness/Quality | Heat-Treated Steel, Mid-Tier Commercial Grade |
| Compatibility | .22 Long Rifle, .22 Long, .22 Short |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to Fire. Manual Safety via Transfer Bar. |
| Weight | Approx. 24.2 oz (Unloaded) |
| Dimensions | 6.5″ Overall Length, 2″ Barrel Length |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | 1-942021SS |
Pros & Cons: My Honest Take
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent Training Platform: The double/single action, mild recoil, and simple operation are ideal for building foundational shooting skills.
- ✅ Stainless Steel Durability: Holds up to range use and storage much better than blued models in humid climates.
- ✅ 8-Round Capacity: More shots between reloads than most revolvers in this caliber.
- ✅ Strong Value: At this sale price, you get a lot of revolver for your money compared to the competition.
- ✅ Low-Cost Practice: .22 LR ammo remains the most affordable centerfire option for high-volume practice.
Cons:
- ❌ Not a Tack-Driver: The 2-inch barrel and fixed sights are for short-range practice (7-15 yards). Don’t expect match-grade accuracy. If precision is your goal, check out our .22 rifles.
- ❌ Can Be Ammo-Sensitive: Like many .22 revolvers, it may prefer standard or high-velocity rounds over the absolute cheapest bulk pack ammo for 100% reliability. It’s a good excuse to test different brands.
- ❌ Heavier Trigger in DA: The double-action pull is long and fairly heavy, which is typical for a revolver of this type. It’s a training feature, not a bug, but it’s something to be aware of.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This Revolver
Buy it if: You’re a parent introducing a young adult to handgun safety and shooting. You’re a new gun owner wanting a simple, no-frills first handgun. You’re an experienced shooter looking for a low-cost, fun plinker for the range. You want a durable, corrosion-resistant revolver for a vehicle or boat kit.
Skip it if: You need a concealed carry weapon—this is a training tool. You demand sub-MOA accuracy from a handgun. You’re looking for a high-capacity semi-auto for action shooting sports. If that’s the case, browse our full shop for centerfire pistols.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of ammo does a .22 revolver use?
The Taurus 942 is chambered for .22 Long Rifle (LR), which is the most common .22 caliber. It can also safely fire the less powerful .22 Long and .22 Short cartridges. For best reliability and performance, I recommend starting with standard or high-velocity .22 LR round-nose ammunition.
Is this revolver good for a beginner?
Absolutely. Its simple operation (load, aim, fire), minimal recoil, and safety features like the transfer bar make it one of the best platforms I recommend for new shooters. It forces focus on the fundamentals without distractions.
Can you mount a optic on this Taurus 942?
No, this model has a fixed sight system and is not drilled or designed for optic mounting. It’s meant to teach and use traditional iron sights.
How does the double-action/single-action work?
You can cock the hammer back manually for a light, short, single-action trigger pull. Or, you can simply pull the trigger through a longer, heavier stroke which will both cock and release the hammer (double-action). Start training in single-action.
Is the finish really stainless steel?
Yes. The frame and barrel are made of stainless steel with a brushed finish. It’s not a coating; the metal itself is stainless, offering good corrosion resistance.
Where can I buy a Taurus 942 revolver online?
You’re in the right place. Frt 15 (frt-15.com) is an authorized retailer. Purchasing here ensures you get a genuine, new firearm with full factory warranty support, shipped directly to your local FFL.
What’s included in the box?
The revolver comes new in the factory box with one 8-round cylinder, the rubber grips installed, a cable lock, and the owner’s manual.
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About this review: This assessment is based on hands-on experience with the firearm platform, industry knowledge, and a focus on practical application for the intended user. My goal is to provide clear, honest information to help you make an informed decision. Last updated: March 2026.
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This Taurus 942 22 Long Rifle 2in Stainless Revolver – 8 Round is ideal for shooters looking to buy guns online with confidence. Built with precision engineering and tested performance, it’s a top-tier choice whether you're looking for home defense, sport shooting, or a trusted everyday carry.
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