Taurus 942

The Taurus 942 is an 8-shot double-action revolver in .22 LR and .22 Magnum—one of the highest-capacity production .22 revolvers available. Built on a polymer frame for reduced weight, the 942 is available in 2” and 3” barrel lengths with an optics-ready frame cut on TORO configurations. The 8-round cylinder takes advantage of the .22 rimfire’s smaller case diameter to fit more chambers than any centerfire compact revolver, providing more shots before reloading for practice, small game hunting, or as an entry-level carry training platform.

Read our full Taurus 942 Buying Guide ↓

.22 LR vs. .22 Magnum: Which 942 Should You Buy?

The 942 in .22 LR is the most economical configuration — ammunition is inexpensive and widely available, making it practical for high-volume practice. The .22 Magnum 942 delivers more velocity, more energy, and better terminal performance with defensive loads like Hornady Critical Defense .22 Magnum. For a pure practice or plinking revolver, .22 LR. For a revolver that will occasionally serve a defensive role or be used for small game hunting, .22 Magnum’s improved performance is worth the modest ammunition cost premium. The 942 cylinders are not interchangeable between calibers — order the correct configuration for your intended use.

Eight Shots: The Capacity Advantage

Most .22 revolvers hold 6 or 7 rounds. The 942’s 8-round cylinder provides more shots between reloads, which matters in practice sessions where administrative reloading interrupts flow, and in small game scenarios where a miss or wounded animal may require a follow-up shot. The 8-round capacity is achieved through the .22 rimfire’s compact case geometry, which allows tighter cylinder spacing than any centerfire cartridge of comparable diameter.

Polymer Frame: Weight and Carry Considerations

The 942’s polymer frame keeps weight at approximately 18 oz unloaded—notably lighter than steel-frame .22 revolvers of comparable size. For all-day carry as a practice or backup firearm, the reduced weight is a meaningful comfort improvement. The polymer frame is entirely appropriate for the .22 rimfire’s pressure levels and does not affect durability for normal use. The frame-mounted optics cut on TORO models accepts standard micro red dot footprints for buyers who want an optic on their .22 revolver for precision small game work.

Training Value: The 942 as a Centerfire Analog

The Taurus 942’s double-action trigger, grip geometry, and manual of arms closely match Taurus’s centerfire compact revolver lineup. For shooters who carry the Taurus 605 in .357 Magnum or the 856 in .38 Special, the 942 provides an economical training platform that builds the same trigger technique and grip habits at a fraction of the ammunition cost. This training carry analog use case is one of the most practical reasons to own a quality .22 revolver alongside a centerfire carry gun.

Compare centerfire options on the Taurus 605 and Taurus 856 pages, browse all Taurus revolvers, or see all .22 pistols and revolvers.