brIEF HISTORY
Founded initially as a tool and die forging plant in southern Brazil in 1939, over the years, Taurus has forged its way as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of small arms.
Taurus produced their first revolver in 1941, and in 1968, began exporting revolvers into the U.S. In 1970, a portion of Taurus was purchased by Bangor Punta, which also owned Smith & Wesson at the time. In 1980, Beretta’s contract to manufacture small arms for the Brazilian Army came to an end, and Taurus purchased Beretta’s Brazilian plant, which included drawings, tools, and machinery previously owned by Beretta.
Taurus employed a highly skilled workforce and set out to make improvements to Beretta’s designs. What resulted was the creation of the renowned PT-22 and PT-99, among other jewels. Soon after that, in 1984, Taurus delivered an industry first by offering an unqualified lifetime repair policy. Although other companies have since matched the policy, it has never been exceeded.
Taurus Holdings, Inc. has made its home in Florida since 1982 and employs more than 300 skilled workers and staff at that plant. Taurus Holdings, Inc. consists of three subsidiaries. These include Taurus International Manufacturing, Braztech International (Rossi), and Heritage Manufacturing. Together, they produce some of the world’s most reliable and robust firearms, with an array of options, from classic single-action revolvers to the most modern semi-automatic pistols.
