TAURUS 809C 9mm
Boasting 12+1 rounds of defensive firepower—the little brother of the 800 series!
The Taurus 809C, shown here with an ArmaLaser SR2, is the compact version of the excellent 800 series, providing full-sized pistol firepower in an easy-to-handle concealed carry package.
Even before the incredible growth in popularity of civilian concealed carry, compact versions of full-sized pistols were popular. Manufacturers have often released smaller versions of their successful full-sized pistol recognizing the need and desire by many for a smaller gun that had the same ammunition, configuration and controls. In law enforcement, compact versions were and continue to be popular for off-duty or undercover use as well as for on-duty use.
Of course, with more and more civilians carrying concealed, the demand for such compacts has only increased. The Taurus 809SSC 9mm pistol (the SS stands for stainless steel, which is the model received for review) is the newest entry in this arena and is based on Taurus’ 800 Series. A double-action/singe-action (DA/SA) semi-automatic recoil-operated, polymer-framed pistol, it is available in both 9mm and in .40 S&W—the latter is dubbed the 840C. Despite its significantly smaller dimensions it still delivers 12+1 rounds of 9mm or 11+1 of .40 caliber.
The 3-dot Novak sights are easy to pick up. Takedown tabs on either side of the frame make disassembly a straightforward process.
Taurus is not the oldest firearms company around, but through their efforts and commitment to innovation and design they have earned a reputation that is the equal of any of the other names in the gun industry. Starting out in Brazil over 60 years ago as a manufacturer of sturdy double-action revolvers, Taurus started building pistols when they bought a Beretta factory in 1980 and began manufacturing the excellent PT-92 and PT-99. This was a very well made gun, which I am proud to own, and came with a lifetime warranty. The 800 Series is no exception.
A 17-round magazine with wraparound extension is included, which provides the same grip feel as the full-sized 800 pistol.
May 1st, 2012 at 9:04 am
I’ve debated long and hard over this gun. For the money it’s a steal, a no brainer for me. The only question now is the compact or the full size. I think for a first gun I’ll go with the full size. I don’t intend to conceal carry at this point, I want o learn how to shoot well then consider a smaller gun to carry later.
October 5th, 2011 at 10:32 pm
I own this handgun, and I can tell you that it’s:
1. Very flat.
2. Very compact.
3. Seems capable of great mechanical accuracy, although the trigger’s a little heavier than I’d like.
4. I don’t care for the Novaks - the front sight is very skinny and hard to center.
5. Physically beautiful.
6. Has a terrible mag release, easily the worst feature on the gun.
7. Very fun to shoot.
8. Was $343 delivered (insured) from Jet Guns, in like 3 days (AMAZING!).
9. Has a super-short trigger reset.
10. Double-action pull is stagey/not-yet-broken-in (200 rounds).
11. Not a gun I will ever part with. I LOVE this little shooter!
October 5th, 2011 at 1:42 pm
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September 25th, 2011 at 5:48 pm
I look forward to owning this compact. I have and carry the 845-there are a few Taurus detractors, but I guarantee these pistols set the bar. The brand is becoming a huge market leader. I own other handguns, but I carry a “Bull.”
September 21st, 2011 at 10:43 pm
Something about this pistol i like,i can’t pin it down.I just like it.Never owned one,shot one or even held one,but i like it.Guess i’ll have to buy one to find out why.Same thing for the CZ P07,i like it,don’t know why,i just do.Just crazy i guess.