Taurus 856VL 2″ 6-Round Stainless Revolver .38 Special +P
About this product
The Taurus 856VL is a compact stainless-steel double-action/single-action revolver chambered in .38 Special +P, featuring an integrated Viridian red laser grip and a six-round cylinder in a package weighing 22 ounces unloaded for everyday concealed carry.
What is the Taurus 856VL 2" 6-Round Stainless Revolver .38 Special +P used for?
This revolver is engineered for personal defense and concealed carry as a primary or backup firearm due to its compact 2-inch barrel and 6-round capacity. The stainless steel construction offers corrosion resistance against daily carry moisture, while the integrated Viridian laser provides a decisive advantage in low-light engagements where traditional sights fail. At 22 ounces unloaded, it strikes a balance between shootability and all-day carry comfort that heavier steel-framed snubbies like the Colt Cobra cannot match for extended wear.
How does the Taurus 856VL 2" 6-Round Stainless Revolver .38 Special +P compare to the S&W 642?
The Taurus 856VL provides a more versatile trigger system and higher capacity than the Smith & Wesson 642, which offers a simpler double-action-only design and holds 5 rounds. The S&W's J-Frame is more concealable due to its slightly slimmer profile and lower weight of 14.4 ounces, but the Taurus provides both single-action capability with its exposed hammer and an integrated laser the 642 lacks. For shooters prioritizing a precise first shot from concealment, the Taurus's single-action option is superior; for pure pocket carry where snag resistance is paramount, the 642's enclosed hammer wins.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, this revolver weighs 22 ounces and measures 6.5 inches in overall length with a cylinder width of 1.41 inches. The 2-inch barrel contributes to the compact 6.5-inch frame-to-muzzle measurement, while the Hogue-finished Viridian laser grip adds precisely 1.25 inches of grip circumference. Compared to larger-frame duty revolvers like the Ruger GP100, which measures over 9.5 inches long, this Taurus slips into a standard IWB holster with over 3 inches of reduced printing potential.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not suitable for competition shooting or as a primary home defense firearm where higher capacity and longer sight radius are critical. The fixed serrated ramp front sight and 2-inch barrel produce a maximum effective range of approximately 25 yards under ideal conditions, making it a poor choice for target practice beyond 50 feet. Shooters requiring suppressor compatibility should look at our threaded-barrel options like the Stevens 334 bolt-action rifles, which accept direct-thread mounts.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver with pre-installed Viridian laser grip, one 6-round stainless steel speedloader, a CR2 battery for the laser, and Taurus's standard owner's manual with warranty card. Unlike higher-end offerings from custom shops, there is no included holster or cleaning kit—plan for an additional $40-60 for a proper Kydex holster. The Viridian laser comes with a standard 1-year manufacturer warranty separate from Taurus's lifetime firearm warranty.
Is the Taurus 856VL 2" 6-Round Stainless Revolver .38 Special +P worth it at $426.99?
At $426.99, it represents solid value for a stainless-steel revolver with an integrated laser system, coming in $150-200 below comparable custom-laser setups on S&W or Ruger frames. The savings come primarily from Taurus's manufacturing efficiencies and the Viridian's consumer-grade laser module rather than a military-spec unit. For shooters who would otherwise spend $250 adding a laser to a $500 base revolver, this package delivers immediate capability at roughly 65% of the total cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction—30% more corrosion resistant than Taurus's matte blue models
- Integrated Viridian laser—activates in 0.3 seconds with grip pressure
- 6-round capacity—holds 1 more round than standard 5-shot J-frames
- 22-ounce unloaded weight—4.2 ounces lighter than all-steel Ruger SP101
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights—no adjustment for windage or elevation without aftermarket machining
- Proprietary laser grip—adds $75-100 replacement cost if damaged
- +P rated but not +P+—limits maximum defensive load selection
- Exposed hammer—can snag on clothing during rapid draw from concealment
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327932048 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-856029VL |
| 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 | 856VL |
| package height | 1.9 |
| package width | 6.2 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 2.1 |
| sights | FS: Serrated Ramp / RS: Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, it is fully compatible with all standard-pressure .38 Special loads and +P variants as indicated by the chamber marking. For optimal function with the 2-inch barrel, I recommend 125-grain to 158-grain jacketed hollow points, which maintain reliable expansion velocities above 850 fps at 7 yards. Avoid shooting +P+ ammunition, as it exceeds SAAMI specifications and may accelerate wear on the transfer bar system.
- Is the Viridian laser compatible with aftermarket grips?
- No, the laser module is integrally molded into the proprietary Hogue-style grip and cannot be transferred to standard Taurus 856 grip frames. Replacement grips from manufacturers like Pachmayr or Altamont will not accommodate the laser housing or wiring. If the laser fails, Taurus must service the entire grip assembly—a process that typically takes 10-14 business days under warranty.
- How long does the CR2 battery last?
- The Viridian E-Series laser provides approximately 4 hours of continuous runtime on a fresh CR2 lithium cell under typical room-temperature conditions. With intermittent use during monthly practice sessions, expect 12-18 months of service before needing replacement. Always remove the battery if storing the firearm for more than 90 days to prevent potential corrosion from battery leakage.
- Can this revolver be used with a shoulder holster?
- Yes, any holster designed for 2-inch J-frame or small-frame revolvers will accommodate the 856VL's 1.41-inch cylinder width. The laser grip adds 0.25 inches of width compared to standard rubber grips, so verify clearance with specific holster models from Galco or DeSantis. For vertical shoulder carry, the 6.5-inch overall length fits standard 7-inch holster bodies without modification.
- Does it include a cable lock for transport?
- No, Taurus does not include cable locks with revolvers sold through distributors like Ironclad Armory. You must purchase a compatible 3/16-inch cable lock separately from brands like Master Lock or Bore Store for approximately $12-18. All firearms ship in a locked hard case per federal regulations, but additional security devices are the purchaser's responsibility.