Inflation may still be a problem in America, but several gun manufacturers have stepped up to offer products that represent great value while speaking to the needs of first-time gun owners. At SHOT Show 2025, there has been a ton of buzz at Taurus USA’s booth over the new GX2 pistol, a streamlined version of its hit GX4.
With an MSRP of just $309.99, you can expect to find this gun on dealer’s shelves for roughly $250—competing with the larger, chunkier competitors in that price range.
Some of the features that speak to beginners are the manual safety, which provides an extra layer of security as you’re learning how to holster (and keep your finger off the trigger), as well as the toolless takedown system, which is simplified over its predecessor.
At the booth, I was able to get my hands on it for the first time and truly liked what I felt. Peering down the sights, I found them to be the spitting image of the GX4s, which means that they can be swapped with several after-market offerings.
The trigger was also carried over from its more expensive brethren, for which I have long advocated. Its flat, wide profile makes it easier to position the proper part of your finger on it, leading to a straighter rearward press.
A few concessions were made to bring the GX2’s price point down: the elimination of the optics cut option and bringing magazine production in-house. (Honestly, I don’t know if the latter is truly a concession, as making something yourself also increases your control over the finished product.) Lastly, the GX2 doesn’t feature interchangeable backstraps, but as it is slim in nature, most won’t miss this diminished level of customization. For more information, visit taurususa.com.
