No, Taurus is not owned by Smith & Wesson. The two companies are distinct entities, and their historical ties were severed decades ago.
Understanding Taurus Ownership History
For a period, there were indeed connections between Taurus and Smith & Wesson, primarily through a common parent company. However, this relationship concluded many years ago, establishing Taurus as an independent manufacturer.
Here's a breakdown of the key event that defined Taurus's independent ownership:
- 1977: In this pivotal year, Taurus was purchased from its then-owner, Bangor Punta. This acquisition marked a significant shift, as its current ownership took control.
- Severed Ties: Critically, with this change in ownership, any existing ties between Taurus and Smith & Wesson were formally severed, establishing Taurus's complete independence in the firearms market.
This means that since 1977, Taurus has operated autonomously, developing its own product lines and market strategies without ownership links to Smith & Wesson.
Key Milestones in Taurus Ownership
To clarify the historical relationship and subsequent independence, consider the following timeline:
| Year | Event | Relationship with Smith & Wesson |
|---|---|---|
| Before 1977 | Implied connections, potentially through a common parent entity (Bangor Punta). | Indirect ties existed |
| 1977 | Taurus acquired from Bangor Punta by its current owners. | Ties severed |
| Present | Operates as an independent firearm manufacturer. | No direct ownership or corporate ties |
Taurus as an Independent Manufacturer
Today, Taurus Armas S.A. is a prominent Brazilian firearms manufacturer, known globally for its diverse range of pistols, revolvers, and other firearms. It designs, manufactures, and markets its products independently. This independence allows Taurus to pursue its own technological innovations and market strategies, distinct from other major firearm companies like Smith & Wesson.
In summary, while there might have been indirect associations in the past, Taurus has been an entirely separate and independently owned company for many decades.
