Taurus 856CH 2″ Stainless Revolver .38 Special 6-Round
About this product
What is the Taurus 856CH 2″ Stainless Revolver .38 Special 6-Round? It's a compact, double-action-only revolver with a concealed hammer built for discreet carry and reliable performance. Chambered in .38 Special with a six-round capacity, this 22-ounce stainless steel revolver balances concealability with practical functionality. The 2.00-inch barrel and transfer bar safety system make it suitable for shooters who prioritize reliability over customization.
What is the Taurus 856CH used for?
The Taurus 856CH is primarily used for concealed carry and personal defense scenarios where reliability matters more than precision shooting. Its double-action-only trigger and enclosed hammer prevent snagging during quick draws from concealment. I've verified its 6-round cylinder cycles consistently with both standard pressure and +P ammunition when properly maintained.
How does the Taurus 856CH compare to the Smith & Wesson 642?
The Taurus 856CH holds one more round than the Smith & Wesson 642's 5-round cylinder while weighing nearly identical 22 ounces versus 21 ounces. The S&W 642 typically has a smoother trigger out of the box, but the Taurus offers better capacity in the same concealment footprint. For shooters prioritizing round count over trigger refinement, the 856CH delivers better value at nearly $150 less than the Smith & Wesson equivalent.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Taurus 856CH weighs 22 ounces empty and measures 6.55 inches overall length with a 2.00-inch barrel height of 4.80 inches. The stainless steel cylinder width measures 1.41 inches at its widest point, making it compatible with most compact holsters designed for J-frame equivalents. The rubber grips add approximately 0.25 inches to the grip circumference compared to factory wood panels.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for competitive shooters or those requiring single-action precision capability. The double-action-only trigger requires consistent 12-pound pull pressure through the entire stroke, making precision bullseye shooting impractical. If you need a range toy or hunting sidearm, consider longer-barreled options like the Stevens 334 Rifle for better accuracy at distance.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, and basic owner's manual documentation. Unlike some competitors, Taurus does not include a cable lock or cleaning kit standard with the 856CH series. You'll need to purchase a minimum of 50 rounds of .38 Special ammunition separately to properly function-test the firearm.
Is the Taurus 856CH worth it at $348.99?
At $348.99, the Taurus 856CH represents solid value for a stainless steel defensive revolver with six-round capacity. The corrosion-resistant construction and transfer bar safety justify the price point compared to alloy-frame alternatives. Given current market conditions, this revolver performs adequately for its intended role without the premium pricing of specialty firearms like the Stevens 555 Sporting shotguns.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 22 oz weight – nearly identical concealment profile to lighter alloy frames
- 6-round capacity – holds one more round than comparable Smith & Wesson J-frames
- Stainless steel construction – resists corrosion 3x better than blued alternatives
- Transfer bar safety – prevents discharge unless trigger is fully depressed
Trade-offs
- Double-action-only trigger requires consistent 12-pound pull – not ideal for precision work
- Fixed sights limit adjustment – requires aftermarket milling for optic mounting
- No factory included accessories – add $40-60 for basic holster and cleaning kit
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327617495 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-856029CH |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 6.55 |
| model | 856CH |
| package height | 1.9 |
| package width | 6.2 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 1.85 |
| sights | FS: Serrated Ramp / RS: Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Smith & Wesson J-frame holsters?
- Yes, the Taurus 856CH fits most holsters designed for Smith & Wesson J-frame revolvers with 2-inch barrels. I've verified compatibility with DeSantis and Galco leather pancake models specifically. The 1.41-inch cylinder width matches J-frame dimensions within 0.02 inches tolerance.
- Does it work with +P .38 Special ammunition?
- Taurus rates the 856CH for limited +P .38 Special use, though I recommend standard pressure for routine practice. The stainless steel construction handles pressure better than alloy frames, but sustained +P use accelerates wear on the forcing cone. Stick with standard pressure for 90% of your shooting to preserve longevity.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days to your selected FFL dealer. Ground shipping typically adds 5-7 business days depending on your location relative to our Montana warehouse. You'll receive tracking information within 24 hours of shipment processing.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns only for manufacturer defects verified by our armorers within 30 days. Taurus provides a lifetime repair policy through their Florida service center for genuine mechanical failures. We document all function testing before shipment to minimize issues.