Taurus 709 Slim 15 Round Magazine: A Comprehensive Guide

The Taurus 709 Slim is a popular choice for concealed carry due to its compact size and relatively light weight. However, one common complaint among 709 Slim owners is the limited capacity of the factory magazine. This is where the concept of a “Taurus 709 Slim 15 round magazine” becomes highly desirable. While Taurus doesn’t officially offer a 15-round magazine for the 709 Slim, the aftermarket has stepped in to provide solutions. This comprehensive guide explores the realities of finding a higher capacity magazine for your Taurus 709 Slim, potential options, crucial considerations, and expert insights to help you make informed decisions. We aim to provide the most in-depth and trustworthy information available on this topic.

Understanding Magazine Capacity and the Taurus 709 Slim

Magazine capacity plays a critical role in the functionality and overall experience of owning a semi-automatic pistol. The Taurus 709 Slim, designed for concealed carry, traditionally ships with a 7 or 8 round capacity magazine, depending on the specific model and year of manufacture. This limited capacity, while contributing to the pistol’s slim profile, can be a drawback for some users who prefer a higher round count for self-defense scenarios. The desire for a “Taurus 709 Slim 15 round magazine” stems from a need for increased firepower without significantly compromising the pistol’s concealability.

It’s essential to understand that modifying or using magazines not specifically designed for a firearm can have significant safety implications. Reliability can be affected, and potentially dangerous malfunctions can occur. The pursuit of a higher capacity magazine should always prioritize safety and proper function.

Exploring Aftermarket Magazine Options for the Taurus 709 Slim

Since Taurus does not manufacture a 15-round magazine for the 709 Slim, the only avenue for achieving this capacity is through aftermarket manufacturers. Several companies specialize in producing magazines compatible with various firearms, including the 709 Slim. However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution and thorough research when considering aftermarket options.

Key Considerations When Choosing Aftermarket Magazines:

• Reliability: This is the most critical factor. Read reviews, watch videos, and seek feedback from other 709 Slim owners who have used the magazine.
• Material and Construction: Look for magazines made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or durable polymer. The construction should be robust and well-finished.
• Compatibility: Ensure the magazine is specifically designed and tested for the Taurus 709 Slim. Generic magazines are unlikely to function reliably.
• Warranty and Support: A reputable manufacturer will stand behind their product with a warranty and provide customer support if you encounter issues.

While a true 15-round magazine explicitly labeled for the 709 Slim may be difficult to find, some users have reported success with magazines designed for similar compact 9mm pistols, sometimes requiring slight modifications. However, any modification of a magazine should be performed by a qualified gunsmith to ensure safety and proper function. We strongly advise against attempting modifications without the necessary expertise.

The Importance of Reliable Firearm Accessories

The performance of any firearm is directly tied to the quality and reliability of its components, especially magazines. A poorly made or incompatible magazine can lead to malfunctions such as:

• Failure to Feed: The magazine fails to properly present a round to the chamber.
• Double Feed: Two rounds are simultaneously fed into the chamber, causing a jam.
• Magazine Release Issues: The magazine fails to lock into place or releases unintentionally.

These malfunctions can be dangerous, especially in a self-defense situation. Therefore, investing in high-quality, reliable magazines is paramount.

Alternatives to the 15 Round Magazine: Exploring Other Options

While the allure of a “Taurus 709 Slim 15 round magazine” is understandable, it’s worth considering alternative approaches to increasing your carrying capacity. These options might offer a more reliable and safer solution than relying on potentially unreliable aftermarket magazines.

1. Carry a Spare Magazine: This is the most common and arguably the most reliable solution. Carrying an extra factory magazine allows you to quickly reload if needed.
2. Extended Base Plates: Some aftermarket companies offer extended base plates for the 709 Slim’s factory magazines. These base plates add a small amount of length to the magazine, allowing for an extra round or two without significantly increasing the overall size.
3. Consider a Different Firearm: If magazine capacity is a primary concern, consider switching to a different compact 9mm pistol that offers a higher capacity magazine from the factory.

Concealed Carry Considerations with Extended Magazines

Even if you find a reliable “Taurus 709 Slim 15 round magazine” or use an extended base plate, it’s essential to consider the impact on concealed carry. A longer magazine can make the pistol more difficult to conceal, potentially printing through clothing and drawing unwanted attention. Experiment with different carry positions and holsters to find what works best for you.

Comfort is also a crucial factor. A longer magazine can dig into your side or leg, making concealed carry uncomfortable for extended periods.

Magazine Maintenance: Ensuring Reliability

Regardless of the type of magazine you use, regular maintenance is essential for ensuring reliability. Magazines are often overlooked, but they are a critical component of your firearm.

Magazine Maintenance Tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Disassemble and clean your magazines regularly, especially after exposure to dirt, dust, or moisture.
• Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks, dents, or other signs of damage. Replace any damaged magazines immediately.
• Lubricate Lightly: Apply a light coat of lubricant to the magazine spring and follower to ensure smooth operation.
• Store Properly: Store magazines in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Legal Considerations Regarding Magazine Capacity

Before purchasing or using any high-capacity magazine, it’s crucial to be aware of the laws in your state and local jurisdiction. Some states have restrictions on magazine capacity, and possessing or using a magazine that exceeds the legal limit can result in serious legal consequences. Always verify the legality of any magazine before purchasing it.

Expert Review: Aftermarket Magazine for Taurus 709 Slim

Let’s consider a hypothetical aftermarket magazine, the “Elite-15” (purely for illustrative purposes), designed to function as a “Taurus 709 Slim 15 round magazine.” This review is based on theoretical performance and common issues observed with similar aftermarket products.

Overview: The Elite-15 is marketed as a high-capacity replacement for the 709 Slim’s factory magazine, promising 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition. It features a stainless steel body and a polymer base plate.

User Experience & Usability: Initial impressions are positive. The magazine feels solid and well-constructed. Loading rounds is relatively easy, although the last few rounds can be a bit stiff. Inserting the magazine into the 709 Slim’s magazine well requires a firm push, and the magazine release functions smoothly.

Performance & Effectiveness: This is where things get tricky. In our simulated testing, the Elite-15 exhibited mixed results. While it successfully fed rounds for the first few magazines, we experienced several failures to feed and occasional double feeds after approximately 50 rounds. The magazine also seemed more prone to malfunctions when the pistol was dirty or slightly under-lubricated.

Pros:

• Increased capacity compared to factory magazines.
• Solid stainless steel construction.
• Relatively easy to load.
• Smooth magazine release.

Cons/Limitations:

• Reliability issues, including failures to feed and double feeds.
• More prone to malfunctions when the pistol is dirty.
• May require a break-in period to function reliably.
• Questionable long-term durability.

Ideal User Profile: The Elite-15 might appeal to users who prioritize higher capacity and are willing to accept a potential trade-off in reliability. It’s best suited for experienced shooters who are comfortable troubleshooting malfunctions and performing regular maintenance.

Key Alternatives: As mentioned earlier, carrying a spare factory magazine or using an extended base plate are more reliable alternatives.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: Based on our simulated testing, we cannot wholeheartedly recommend the Elite-15. While the increased capacity is appealing, the reliability issues are a significant concern. We advise proceeding with caution and thoroughly testing any aftermarket magazine before relying on it for self-defense.

Navigating Your Options for Enhanced Firepower

The quest for a “Taurus 709 Slim 15 round magazine” highlights the desire for increased capacity in a concealed carry pistol. While aftermarket options exist, it’s crucial to prioritize reliability and safety. Carefully research any potential magazine, consider alternative solutions like carrying a spare magazine, and always be aware of the legal implications. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, priorities, and comfort level.

We encourage you to share your experiences with different magazines for the Taurus 709 Slim in the comments below. Your insights can help other users make informed decisions and enhance their shooting experience.