Best answer so far. I like Taurus but have read enough negative reviews like the OPs that if I were to buy another I want to inspect it in person. I just bought a TCP 380 off GB and its in like new condition and works perfectly. No complaints at all.
And I suspect the OP does know a bit about guns and doesn't mind me pulling his chain a little.
But I have read several negative reviews on guns from most makers in the last couple of years. Have a look at what this guy found on his new S&W 460 Performance Center gun. I wouldn't be happy either if I got what he got for the price he paid.
https://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=602792
So sometimes bad guns get out. And the owners are vocal about it. But you don't hear a lot about the guns that are fine and work as they are supposed to.