Taurus PT-38S .38 Super Compact DA/SA Pistol – Two-Tone Alloy Frame, Matte Stainless Slide, Accessory Rail
The Taurus PT-38S is a compact, limited-production pistol chambered in .38 Super, built on a Beretta-style open-top slide and a lightweight alloy frame. Offered only from the early- to mid-2000s, it is one of the few factory DA/SA handguns in this caliber to include an accessory rail. Two-tone cosmetics, a three-position safety/decocker, and single-stack 10-round magazines designed for AWB compliance add further collector interest.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor surface scratches and small blemishes are visible on the frame and slide but remain purely cosmetic.
What’s Included
- Taurus PT-38S semi-automatic pistol
- Two factory 10-round steel magazines stamped “PT 38S CAL .38 SUPER – MADE IN BRAZIL”
- Belt holster
Produced in Brazil between the early 2000s and approximately 2012, the PT-38S saw a short run, making surviving examples uncommon on the U.S. market. Its single-stack magazine was engineered for the 1994–2004 Assault Weapons Ban, yet still delivers a 10+1 capacity in the potent .38 Super cartridge.
The pistol uses a DA/SA, hammer-fired, recoil-operated system closely related to the Beretta 92, retaining the open-top slide for reliable ejection. A frame-mounted, three-position lever functions as both manual safety and decocker, giving shooters flexible carry and administrative handling options.
A matte stainless slide contrasts with the polished aluminum-alloy frame for a distinctive two-tone look. Rear slide serrations, black checkered synthetic grips with Taurus medallions, and fixed three-dot sights round out the exterior features.
An integral accessory rail on the dust cover sets the PT-38S apart from most .38 Super pistols, allowing easy attachment of lights or lasers without aftermarket modification. Combined with its compact 4.25-inch barrel, the pistol offers practical versatility while retaining collectible status.