Taurus 856 Small .38 Special Revolver, 2-inch, 6-Shot
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Expert review
About this product
What is the Taurus 856 Small .38 Special Revolver? It is a compact, six-shot, double/single-action revolver built on a solid steel frame, specifically engineered for concealed carry and close-proximity defensive use. This wheelgun delivers a 2-inch barrel and a 22-ounce overall weight for a balance of shootability and concealment. In a market where subcompact pistols dominate, the 856 revives a mechanical simplicity that requires deliberate training to master effectively.
What is the Taurus 856 used for?
This revolver is for concealed carry, backup duty, and home defense within 15 yards. Its primary function is providing a mechanically reliable, no-malfunction option for defensive scenarios where semiautomatic complexity may be a liability. The 2-inch barrel and 6.55-inch overall length prioritize deep concealment, making it suitable for ankle or pocket carry in a proper holster, though the 22-ounce weight is noticeable in light clothing.
How does the Taurus 856 compare to a Smith & Wesson J-Frame?
The Taurus 856 holds a distinct advantage in capacity, offering six rounds versus the typical five in a comparable Smith & Wesson 642 or 442. Where the Smith & Wesson often excels is in its smoother, more consistent double-action trigger pull right out of the box—an advantage of about 1.5 to 2 pounds lower pull weight on average. For the shooter prioritizing round count over initial trigger refinement, the 856 wins; for those valuing a more refined immediate trigger feel, the J-frame is superior. Both share similar applications, but the mechanical priorities differ.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 22 ounces (623 grams) with an overall length of 6.55 inches. The cylinder width is 1.41 inches, and the height from the top of the rear sight to the bottom of the grip is 4.8 inches. These dimensions create a package that is 1.2 inches shorter in height than our Stevens 334 rifle, emphasizing its concealment profile over a duty or sporting firearm’s ergonomics.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for new shooters seeking a low-recoil training platform or competitors needing rapid reloads. The .38 Special +P recoil in a 22-ounce steel frame is stout, requiring dedicated grip technique to manage effectively. It is also a poor choice for anyone unwilling to practice the long, deliberate double-action trigger pull essential for accuracy—this is not a point-and-shoot firearm. If your needs lean towards recreational clay shooting, a Stevens 555 .410 is a far more appropriate tool.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, a single six-round moon clip (compatible with .38 Special only), a plastic hard case, one Taurus-branded cable lock, and the owner's manual. Notably absent is a speed loader, which adds a $25 to $40 expense for efficient reload training. The manual includes specific torque specifications for grip screws (15 inch-pounds) and a clear warning against using .357 Magnum ammunition.
Is the Taurus 856 worth it at $379?
At $378.99, the Taurus 856 delivers functional value for a shooter who understands and accepts its design compromises. You are paying for a six-shot capacity in a proven steel-frame platform, a feature that typically adds $75 to $100 over a base five-shot model from other manufacturers. The investment is justified if your priority is maximum round count in a small-frame revolver and you are prepared to either accept the factory trigger or budget for a trigger job. It is not a luxury item, but a working tool priced accordingly.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Six-shot capacity in a compact frame—holds one more round than a standard S&W J-Frame.
- Solid 22-ounce steel construction provides manageable .38 Special recoil impulse versus lighter alloy frames.
- Transfer bar safety system meets modern drop-safety standards without a cumbersome external lever.
Trade-offs
- Double-action trigger pull averages 12-14 pounds from the factory—requires significant practice or a professional smoothing job.
- Fixed, non-adjustable sights limit precision beyond 15 yards—no windage or elevation adjustment.
- Moon clip compatibility is for .38 Special only; not cut for .357 Magnum, limiting caliber versatility.
Key attributes
| upc | 725327939290 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-85621VZ19 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| sights | Ramp Front/Fixed Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Taurus 856 compatible with +P .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus 856 is rated for standard pressure and +P .38 Special ammunition according to the manufacturer's specifications. I recommend a thorough post-range cleaning after using +P loads, as the increased pressure accelerates carbon and fouling buildup in the forcing cone and cylinder chambers.
- Does it fit a standard J-Frame holster?
- Generally no; while dimensions are similar, the Taurus 856's cylinder is slightly wider at 1.41 inches versus the typical J-frame's 1.3-inch width. You will need a holster specifically molded for the Taurus 856 model. Brands like DeSantis and Vedder make reliable options, with lead times of 14 to 21 days for custom orders.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, processing is 1-2 business days and ground shipping adds 3-7 business days transit time to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. Always confirm your chosen FFL's acceptance policies and hours before placing your order to avoid storage delays.
- Can I mount aftermarket sights on the Taurus 856?
- The front sight is integral to the barrel rib and not readily replaceable without machining. The fixed rear sight channel is also non-adjustable, limiting you to aftermarket adhesive or clamp-on options, which add bulk and potential snag points. For a revolver with a fully replaceable sight system, you would need to step up to a model like the Smith & Wesson 686.