Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. 3″ .38 Special Stainless Revolver
About this product
What is the Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. 3″ .38 Special Stainless Revolver? It's a compact stainless-steel revolver chambered for .38 Special with a 3-inch barrel and factory-installed optic-ready system compatible with Holosun K-footprint micro red dots. This model incorporates Taurus's T.O.R.O. optic-ready system while retaining traditional iron sights, making it a versatile choice for shooters who want both modern and classic sighting options. The design combines a steel frame, transfer-bar safety and Hogue rubber grips for controlled recoil and comfortable handling suitable for everyday carry and range use.
What is the Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. used for?
The Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. serves as a versatile concealed carry and home defense revolver with modern optic capability. Its 3-inch barrel provides improved ballistics over snub-nose models while maintaining compact dimensions of 7.25 inches overall length. The stainless steel construction withstands daily carry moisture, and the Hogue grips manage .38 Special recoil effectively for follow-up shots.
How does the Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 642?
The Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. offers superior optic readiness compared to the Smith & Wesson Model 642's iron-sights-only configuration. While the S&W 642 weighs 14.4 ounces with its aluminum frame, the Taurus's stainless steel construction brings it to 24 ounces—providing better recoil management but less carry comfort. The Taurus delivers modern red dot capability while the S&W maintains traditional revolver purity.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 24 ounces unloaded and measures 7.25 inches in overall length with a 3-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.41 inches, and the height from grip bottom to sight top measures 5.1 inches. These dimensions make it concealable in most IWB holsters while providing sufficient grip purchase for controlled shooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for shooters seeking maximum concealability or those preferring polymer-frame lightweight designs. At 24 ounces, it's 40% heavier than aluminum-frame alternatives like the Smith & Wesson Airweight series. The T.O.R.O. system also adds complexity that traditional revolver purists may find unnecessary compared to simpler options like the Stevens 334 bolt-action rifle.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one T.O.R.O. optic mounting plate (Holosun K footprint), two Allen wets for plate installation, and a cable lock. Unlike some competitors, Taurus does not include a hard case—expect a cardboard box with foam insert. The front night sight is pre-installed and activated with a 10-year glow duration.
Is the Taurus 856 T.O.R.O. worth it at $397.99?
At $397.99, this revolver delivers exceptional value for shooters wanting optic-ready capability without custom gunsmithing. The included T.O.R.O. plate alone would cost $75-100 aftermarket, making this essentially a $300 revolver with free optic mounting. Compared to Stevens 555 shotguns at similar price points, this offers modern defensive technology rather than traditional sporting designs.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory optic-ready system saves $75-100 aftermarket machining
- 24 oz weight manages .38 Special recoil 30% better than 14 oz aluminum frames
- 3-inch barrel provides 75-100 fps velocity increase over 2-inch barrels
- Hogue grips reduce perceived recoil by approximately 20% over factory rubber
Trade-offs
- No included hard case—cardboard box only versus S&W's plastic case
- Front sight requires tool removal (not thumb-adjustable like some competitors)
- 24 oz weight is 40% heavier than aluminum-frame carry revolvers
- Optics plate screws not included—requires separate purchase
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327634454 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-856P39 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 7.5 |
| model | 856 |
| package height | 1.9 |
| package width | 6.2 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 2.05 |
| sights | Fixed Sights |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Holosun 407K?
- Yes, the T.O.R.O. system uses the Holosun K footprint which directly accepts 407K, 507K, and EPS Carry models. The mounting plate requires two M3x0.5mm screws (not included) and maintains co-witness with the iron sights. Zeroing typically takes 15-20 rounds at 25 yards.
- Does it fit standard .38 Special speed loaders?
- It accepts HKS and Safariland speed loaders designed for 6-shot small-frame revolvers. The cylinder release latch sits flush enough for most loader clearance, though some Safariland Comp II models may require slight modification. Expect 2-3 second reloads with practice.
- How long does shipping take to FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 1 business day with UPS 2-day air to your selected FFL. Total delivery typically completes in 3-4 business days excluding FFL transfer time. We require FFL information before shipment processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my holster?
- Firearms are non-returnable per ATF regulations once transferred. We recommend verifying holster compatibility through our dimension charts—this model fits most holsters designed for Taurus 856/85 series. Consider a custom kydex holster from Black Arch Holsters for optimal fit.