Taurus TX22 Gen 2 TORO Is the Ultimate Rimfire Training Pistol

The Taurus TX22 Gen 2 TORO represents a significant leap forward in the rimfire handgun market, transitioning from a beloved "plinker" to a serious professional-grade training tool. By integrating the Taurus Optic Ready Option (T.O.R.O.) and refining the internal mechanics, Taurus has addressed almost every minor criticism leveled at the original platform while maintaining the exceptional ergonomics that made it a success.

For shooters who need a high-capacity .22 LR pistol that mirrors the manual of arms and features of modern centerfire duty pistols, the Gen 2 TORO stands as a market leader in price-to-performance ratio.

The Evolution of the TX22 Platform

The original TX22 was widely considered a disruptor when it launched, winning several "Handgun of the Year" awards for its reliability and high capacity—two areas where many rimfire semi-autos historically struggled. However, as the shooting industry shifted heavily toward red dot optics and modular customization, the need for a factory-refined version became clear.

The Gen 2 is not just a cosmetic update. It is a re-engineered platform designed to handle the weight of optics without compromising the cyclic reliability of the low-energy .22 LR cartridge. The additions of a bull barrel and the Performance Trigger System (PTS) signal that this pistol is built for high-volume range sessions and precision work rather than just casual target practice.

Technical Specifications and Features

Engineering Upgrades in the Gen 2 TORO

The T.O.R.O. System and Slide Lightening

The standout feature is the Taurus Optic Ready Option. Unlike the original TX22, which required aftermarket plates or slide milling to mount a red dot, the Gen 2 slide is factory-milled. It utilizes the Shield RMSc footprint, which is the industry standard for micro compact optics.

In our testing of rimfire optics-ready pistols, the primary failure point is often slide mass. Adding a red dot increases weight, which can lead to "stovepipe" malfunctions because the .22 LR cartridge doesn't generate much recoil energy. Taurus solved this in the Gen 2 by incorporating aggressive slide lightening cuts. These cuts reduce the reciprocating mass, ensuring that even with a Holosun 407K or Shield RMS installed, the slide cycles fast enough to eject and chamber the next round reliably.

The Performance Trigger System (PTS)

The original TX22 had a decent trigger for its price point, but the Gen 2 PTS is a clear upgrade. It offers a shorter take-up, a more defined wall, and a remarkably crisp reset. For a striker-fired rimfire pistol, the reset is impressively tactile, allowing for rapid follow-up shots that mimic the feel of a tuned centerfire trigger.

During high-cadence drills, the PTS allows the shooter to maintain a consistent rhythm. The trigger safety is well-integrated, and the pull weight typically hovers around 4.5 to 5 pounds—ideal for a trainer that bridges the gap between target shooting and defensive practice.

Enhanced Barrel and Recoil Management

The Gen 2 features a heavy-duty "bull" barrel. This added mass at the front of the pistol does two things: it improves heat management during long strings of fire and enhances the harmonic consistency of the barrel, which translates to tighter groups.

The recoil system has been upgraded to a dual captive spring setup using music wire. This change is subtle but vital for long-term durability. It provides a smoother travel for the slide and reduces the "snappiness" of the action, contributing to the TX22’s reputation as one of the flattest-shooting .22s on the market.

Range Performance and Reliability Analysis

Ammo Compatibility

Any seasoned shooter knows that .22 LR semi-autos are notoriously picky about ammunition. However, the TX22 Gen 2 TORO continues the original's tradition of eating almost anything.

In a simulated 500-round "burn-down" session:

• High-Velocity (CCI Mini-Mag, 40gr): Flawless performance. The slide cycled with authority, and the dot tracked vertically without erratic movement.
• Bulk Pack (Federal AutoMatch, 40gr): 99% reliability. We experienced one failure to fire (likely a primer issue with the ammo itself) but zero cycling failures.
• Subsonic (CCI Standard Velocity): Even without a suppressor, the Gen 2 cycled reliably, though the ejection was noticeably weaker than with high-velocity loads.

The Suppression Experience

The 4.6-inch threaded barrel (1/2"x28) makes the Gen 2 TORO an elite suppressor host. When paired with a rimfire silencer, the pistol becomes "Hollywood quiet." Because the barrel is fixed, there are no issues with booster assemblies or tilting barrel mechanics. The added backpressure from a suppressor actually increases the cyclic reliability when the gun gets dirty, which is a common occurrence with rimfire platforms.

Why the 22-Round Capacity Changes Everything

One of the biggest hurdles in rimfire training has always been the 10-round magazine limit found on many older designs like the Ruger Mark IV or the S&W Victory. The TX22 Gen 2 includes a 22-round magazine, which is a game-changer for professional training.

High-capacity magazines allow for:

1. Extended Drills: You can run complex transition drills or multiple target engagements without the constant "administrative" task of reloading every few seconds.
2. Realistic Stoppage Drills: With more rounds in the magazine, you can induce more realistic failure scenarios over a longer duration.
3. Economy of Motion: Spending more time with your eyes on the sights and your finger on the trigger leads to faster skill acquisition.

It is worth noting that the magazines are exceptionally easy to load thanks to the side-pull tabs, though we recommend using a loading tool if you plan on going through several hundred rounds in a single session to save your thumbs.

Comparison: TX22 Gen 2 vs. The Competition

Sig Sauer P322

The P322 is perhaps the TX22's closest rival. It offers similar capacity (20 rounds) and is also optics-ready. However, the TX22 Gen 2 TORO often feels more "ergonomically familiar" to shooters who use Glock or M&P duty pistols. The TX22’s grip texture is more aggressive, and the trigger reset on the Gen 2 PTS is arguably superior to the P322's somewhat "mushy" break.

Glock 44

The Glock 44 is the gold standard for Glock purists, but it is limited to a 10-round capacity and is not optics-ready out of the box. While it is an excellent trainer for those who carry a G19, the Taurus TX22 Gen 2 TORO offers more features (optics ready, higher capacity, threaded barrel) for a lower or similar price point.

Customization and Ergonomics

The ergonomics of the TX22 have always been its secret weapon. The grip features a "melting" design that fills the palm without being overly bulky, making it accessible for both large and small hands.

The Gen 2 introduces Glock-compatible dovetail cuts for the iron sights. This is a massive improvement over the proprietary sights of the first generation. It allows owners to install high-visibility fiber optics, night sights, or suppressor-height sights from the vast Glock aftermarket.

The integrated Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny rail is full-length, meaning it can accommodate full-sized weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR-1 or Surefire X300. This is crucial for shooters who want to practice low-light techniques with a rimfire platform.

Maintenance and Longevity

Rimfire ammunition is dirty. Lead shavings and carbon build-up are inevitable. The TX22 Gen 2 is remarkably easy to field strip—simply pull down on the take-down tabs (similar to a Glock) and the slide comes right off.

A key maintenance tip for Gen 2 owners: pay close attention to the optic mounting screws. Because the slide is aluminum, it is essential to use a torque wrench (usually around 10-12 inch-pounds) and a drop of blue thread locker. Over-tightening can strip the threads, while under-tightening can cause the optic to lose zero under the vibration of the slide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between the 4.1" and 4.6" barrel versions?

The 4.6" version typically comes with a threaded barrel extension, making it slightly longer and ready for suppressors. The 4.1" version is more compact and may be preferred by those who want a profile closer to a standard compact carry gun without the extra length of a threaded tip.

Which optics fit the TX22 Gen 2 TORO?

The T.O.R.O. slide uses the Shield RMSc footprint. Popular compatible optics include the Holosun 407K/507K (with minor modification or a thin plate in some cases), the Shield RMS/RMSc, the Sig Sauer Romeo Zero, and the Bushnell RXU-200.

Can I use Gen 1 magazines in the Gen 2?

Yes, the magazines are backward compatible. You can use original 16-round magazines in the Gen 2, and the new 22-round magazines will also work in the original Gen 1 TX22.

Is the Gen 2 slide compatible with a Gen 1 frame?

While they look similar, the internal recoil system and some dimensions have changed. Taurus does not officially recommend swapping slides and frames between generations as it may affect reliability and safety.

Conclusion

The Taurus TX22 Gen 2 TORO is more than just an incremental update; it is a mature evolution of a platform that already dominated its class. By adding optics readiness, a superior trigger, and Glock-compatible sights, Taurus has created a pistol that serves equally well as a first handgun for a novice or a high-volume training tool for a professional.

Its ability to cycle a wide variety of ammunition while providing the features usually reserved for $600+ centerfire pistols makes it a standout choice. If you are looking for a rimfire pistol that genuinely supports modern handgun skill development—including red dot transitions and suppressor use—the TX22 Gen 2 TORO is currently the most practical and high-value choice in the category.