Taurus 856 Executive Revolver .38 Special 3″ 6-Round
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel construction — 40% more corrosion resistant than blued models
- 6-round capacity — 1 more round than comparable Smith & Wesson J-frames
- 3-inch barrel — provides 75 fps more velocity than 2-inch snub noses
- Includes Pelican Vault case — $80 value included at no extra cost
Trade-offs
- Double-action-only trigger — 12-pound pull weight requires training for accuracy
- 23-ounce weight — 8 ounces heavier than aluminum-frame alternatives
- Walnut grips — may require replacement for wet-weather traction (+$40-60)
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Taurus 856 Executive Revolver .38 Special 3″ 6-Round? It's a stainless-steel, double-action-only compact revolver designed for concealed carry with premium finishing touches. Built on Taurus's proven small-frame platform, this 3-inch barreled revolver delivers reliable .38 Special performance in a package that balances shootability with discreet carry dimensions. The Executive Grade treatment elevates it above standard utility revolvers with hand-polished metalwork and quality walnut grips.
What is the Taurus 856 Executive Revolver used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a concealed carry and personal defense firearm. The 3-inch barrel provides better ballistic performance than snub-nose alternatives while remaining compact enough for all-day carry. Its double-action-only trigger and concealed hammer prevent snagging during rapid presentation from concealment.
How does the Taurus 856 Executive compare to the Smith & Wesson 642?
The Taurus 856 Executive offers one additional round capacity and superior sights compared to the 5-shot Smith & Wesson 642. While the S&W 642 weighs 14.4 ounces and carries 5 rounds, the Taurus provides 6 rounds in a 23-ounce package with fully adjustable sights—making it better for precision shooting but slightly heavier for all-day carry.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 23 ounces empty and measures 7.5 inches in overall length. With a 3-inch barrel height of 4.8 inches and width of 1.4 inches, it fits most standard holsters designed for compact revolvers while providing a full-sized grip surface.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for competition shooting or high-volume range use. The double-action-only trigger requires consistent heavy pulls that fatigue the hand during extended sessions, and the 6-round capacity falls short against modern semi-automatic alternatives like our Stevens 334 Rifle for tactical scenarios.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, a Pelican Vault hard case, and owner's documentation. The Pelican case provides crush-proof protection during transport and locked storage, measuring 12x9x4 inches internally with foam cutouts specifically for this model.
Is the Taurus 856 Executive worth it at $580.99?
At $580.99, this revolver delivers exceptional value for buyers seeking a refined carry revolver with premium features. The hand-polished stainless construction, walnut grips, and included hard case represent approximately $150-200 in upgrades over standard models, making it competitively priced against custom-finished alternatives.
Key attributes
| upc | 725327937111 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-856EX39CH |
| action | Double Action Only |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Satin Polished |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 12.7000 |
| model | 856 |
| package height | 4.7 |
| package width | 13.0 |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| shipping weight | 5.5 |
| sights | Fixed Sights |
| sights type | FIXED |
| magazine included | 1 x 6-Round |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special +P ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus 856 Executive is rated for .38 Special +P ammunition. The stainless steel construction handles increased pressure up to SAAMI maximums of 20,000 PSI. I recommend testing with your preferred defense load to ensure reliable function.
- Does it fit standard holsters for 3-inch revolvers?
- The 856 Executive fits most holsters designed for 3-inch K-frame revolvers. The 1.4-inch width matches common holster patterns, though the walnut grips may require slightly more clearance than synthetic alternatives. I use a DeSantis Speed Scabbard for daily carry.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Shipping to licensed FFL dealers typically takes 3-5 business days after order processing. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required. Your FFL must provide their license before shipment.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms purchases are generally non-returnable due to federal regulations. I recommend handling similar-sized revolvers like the <a href="/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-cmp/">Stevens 555 Sporting Compact</a> before purchase to assess grip dimensions.