Taurus 942 .22 LR 3 in. 8-Round Revolver

The Taurus 942 .22 LR 3 in. 8-Round Revolver is a no-nonsense rimfire wheelgun built for shooters who want reliability without the sticker shock. I’ve had a few of these through my hands at the range, and this little 8-shot snubby punches way above its weight for plinking, training, and even discreet carry. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, it cycles everything from bulk high-velocity to standard-velocity target loads without a hiccup, thanks to that enclosed hammer and straightforward DA/SA trigger. The 3-inch barrel keeps it compact enough for a pocket holster, yet long enough to get decent velocity out of those 22 rounds. Matte black finish, rubber grips that lock into your hand, and a cylinder that holds eight rounds—this is the revolver you grab when you want to burn through a brick of ammo for cheap and still hit what you’re aiming at.

Manufacturer	Taurus
Model	942
Material	Alloy steel frame, matte black finish
Compatibility	.22 LR ammunition, standard and high-velocity
Finish	Matte black
Weight	Approximately 22 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• 8-Round Cylinder – Why it matters: That’s two more shots than a typical 6-shot J-frame, giving you more trigger time between reloads, whether you’re running drills or teaching a new shooter.
• Double-Action/Single-Action Trigger – Why it matters: You can stage the hammer for precision single-action shots at the range or rely on the smooth, consistent double-action pull for defensive use. It’s like having two triggers in one.
• Exposed Hammer with Transfer Bar Safety – Why it matters: The exposed spur lets you thumb-cock for that crisp SA break, while the transfer bar prevents accidental discharge if the gun is dropped. Old-school safety, modern execution.
• 3-Inch Barrel with Front Sight – Why it matters: The extra inch over a 2-inch snubby improves sight radius and velocity, yet the overall package still fits in a coat pocket or IWB holster. It’s the Goldilocks length for .22 wheelguns.
• Black Rubber Grips with Finger Grooves – Why it matters: These grips soak up the negligible recoil of .22 LR and give you a positive purchase even with sweaty hands. No slipping, no shifting—just control.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who wants a rimfire companion to their centerfire snubbies, the concealed carrier who wants a lightweight backup with 8 rounds on tap, and the budget-conscious shooter who still demands quality. It’s also perfect for introducing new shooters to revolvers without the bark of a .38 Special or .357 Magnum.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Extremely affordable—under $400 for a brand-name, 8-shot revolver is a steal in today’s market.
• Pro: Low recoil makes it a tack-driver for plinking and a confidence-builder for beginners.
• Pro: Compact enough for everyday carry, yet the 3-inch barrel gives better accuracy than micro revolvers.
• Con: The trigger pull in double-action is heavy out of the box—around 12 pounds per Taurus specs—which can take some getting used to for rapid fire. A spring kit can lighten it, but it’s worth noting if you’re expecting a tuned trigger at this price point.

Comparison: Taurus 942 vs. Smith & Wesson Model 43C vs. Ruger LCR .22 LR

Feature	Taurus 942	S&W Model 43C	Ruger LCR .22 LR
Capacity	8 rounds	8 rounds	8 rounds
Barrel Length	3 inches	1.875 inches	1.875 inches
Weight	~22 oz	~12 oz	~13.5 oz
Trigger (DA)	~12 lbs (per Taurus)	~11 lbs	~9 lbs (smoother)
Price	$387.44	~$650	~$550
Finish	Matte black	Matte black anodized aluminum	Matte black (polymer frame)

The 942 gives you a longer barrel and a steel frame for better balance and durability at a fraction of the cost of the S&W or Ruger. The trade-off is weight—the 942 is heavier, which helps with recoil but may not be as pocket-friendly as the aluminum or polymer alternatives.

According to Taurus specs, the 942’s cylinder gap is held to tight tolerances, which minimizes spitting and maintains velocity. One specific measurement you’ll notice is the 1.5-inch cylinder length—short enough to keep the package compact, yet long enough to load .22 LR without rim lock. One honest drawback: the factory sights are basic—a pinned front and fixed rear notch—so if you want fiber optics or night sights, you’ll need to aftermarket it.

FAQ

What is the Taurus 942 .22 LR 3 in. 8-Round Revolver best used for?

It’s ideal for recreational plinking, training new shooters, and as a low-recoil concealed carry option for those who prefer rimfire. The 8-round capacity and 3-inch barrel make it versatile for both range sessions and backup carry.

Does the Taurus 942 22 LR 8 shot revolver with 3 inch barrel have a safety?

Yes, it features a transfer bar safety that prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. This makes it drop-safe and adds a layer of security for carry.

How does the Taurus 22 revolver 942 compare to the Taurus 85 revolver?

The 942 is chambered in .22 LR (8 rounds) versus the 85’s .38 Special (5 rounds). The 942 has lower recoil and higher capacity, while the 85 offers more stopping power. Both share the same small-frame footprint, but the 942 is lighter on the wallet for ammo.

Can I mount optics on the Taurus 942?

The standard 942 has no optics cut. You can use a dovetail rear sight mount from aftermarket suppliers, but it’s designed for iron sights out of the box. Some gunsmiths can add a rail, but it’s not factory-supported.

What’s the warranty on this revolver?

Taurus offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner. It covers defects in materials and workmanship, but not wear and tear from normal use. Check Taurus’s website for full terms.

Why Buy From Us?

• ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✅ 30-day returns
• ✅ Secure checkout

Browse more in our Revolvers collection, or check out Rimfire Guns and Concealed Carry for similar options. Last updated: April 2026.