Careful there, butterfingers. That loaded handgun you’re holding could actually be more dangerous than a… loaded handgun.
Getting shot is never a good thing, but shot by your own pistol, by a combination of your clumsiness and Taurus’ allegedly shoddy craftsmanship, well that’s just a bad day. It’s enough to make the unfortunate victim pray the bullet strikes a vital organ.
The class action lawsuit blames the problem on a manufacturing defect in at least 9 models of Taurus Millenium pistols that can cause them to unintentionally discharge when dropped or — perhaps even more dangerous — when the safety is on, according to the lawsuit.
If you own one of the following models being recalled, don’t walk, RUN — but not so fast you drop your pistol — to make the end of the claims period, which is Tuesday, February 6, tomorrow. Literally.
So if you own one of the Taurus pistols listed below but have not filed a claim, and are reading this anytime after Tuesday thinking you’re going to be cut in on any compensation, think again. You’re SOL. Should’ve been quicker on the draw.
Gun owners who do meet the claims deadline have 3 options per the $239 million settlement agreement: a cash payment, enhanced warranty, or safety training. Owners of the recalled pistols can receive up to $200 cash in exchange for their defective piece, or may have the guns inspected and repaired for free.
Recalled Taurus pistols include:
- PT-111 Millennium
- PT-132 Millennium
- PT-138 Millennium
- PT-140 Millennium
- PT-145 Millennium
- PT-745 Millennium
- PT-609; PT-640
- PT-24/7
The ‘Pro” series of each of these handguns is also being recalled for the same issue, Taurus said. The recall affects about one million firearms, give or take.
In addition to the terms above, Taurus has agreed to publish free online training videos and instructions on how to properly operate and handle the guns.
The company is covering all shipping and handling costs, but says members should review their state and federal regulations before sending firearms through the mail. Detailed instructions can be found on the settlement website.
Source: The Denver Channel