Taurus Spectrum .380 Pistol: Coming to the Range

It takes a lot to stand out at SHOT Show, and even more to stand out in the concealed carry...

By David Maccar | Published Jan 20, 2017 4:01 AM

Range Life

A white frame option allows for some visually striking color combinations.

Taurus Spectrum .380 CCW Pistol: Coming to the Range — The new Taurus Spectrum .380 pistols is available in 60 frame and overmold color combinations. *author photo*

It takes a lot to stand out at SHOT Show, and even more to stand out in the concealed carry pistol market these days, but a new semi-auto from Taurus accomplished both, largely due to its stunning array of available colors, but its looks are far from the only cool thing about the .380 Spectrum, including some very attractive prices.

The Spectrum is the first gun from the Brazil-based company to be designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States. It also features a new trigger design from Taurus that they’re calling a “non-energized” trigger system. That means it can’t be cocked and only fires in double-action mode, with a 7-9 pound trigger pull.

The recoil-operated pistol contains no external safeties, and no protrusions of any kind for that matter, save for a nearly recessed magazine release button. Every edge and corner has been smoothed out to increase comfort and reduce printing for concealed carriers, whether they use an OWB, IWB, or pocket holster.

The Spectrum features a 2.8” barrel with an overall length of 5.40” and a height of 3.82”. The width measures at only 0.89” and the little self defender weighs just 10 ounces unloaded. It comes with one six-round magazine and another extended 7-round mag.

Now onto its looks. First, the Spectrum frame is available in three colors: black, gray, and white. Then, the soft-touch overmold areas, including the grip and slide serrations, are available in 20 different colors ranging from black and gray to Emerald, Rose Quartz, and Garnet, allowing for 60 different color combinations.

Shooters can also choose either a stainless or black stainless slide for even more options.

With the standard frame and overmold colors like black and grey, the Spectrum will retail for $289. The other, more exotic colors, which Taurus is calling “House Color Combinations,” will sell for $305.