TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special 2in Revolver 6rd

About this product

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special 2in Revolver 6rd is a compact, six-shot double-action/single-action revolver designed for discreet carry and close-range personal defense. As a lead armorer who has inspected thousands of service weapons, I evaluate it as a purpose-built tool that prioritizes weight savings and reliability over long-range precision. Its design philosophy centers on mechanical simplicity for predictable performance under stress.

What is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite used for?

This revolver is engineered for discreet everyday carry and close-quarters defensive use. Its 2-inch barrel and 6.55-inch overall length make it suitable for appendix or pocket carry, while the transfer bar safety and double-action trigger provide a layer of operational security against negligent discharge. The .38 Special +P capability offers adequate stopping power for defensive scenarios within 15 yards, though shot placement trumps caliber here—expect groups to open to 4-5 inches at 25 yards even with careful single-action use.

How does the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite compare to the Smith & Wesson J-Frame Model 642?

The Taurus 856 holds a one-round capacity advantage and offers a single-action option, while the Smith & Wesson 642 is a hammerless, double-action-only design with a five-shot cylinder. For pure concealment and snag-free draw, the S&W 642 is superior; it weighs 14.8 ounces and has no external hammer to catch on clothing. For shooters who prioritize a potentially more accurate single-action trigger pull for deliberate practice, the Taurus 856 is the better choice, though its exposed hammer adds 0.3 inches to the profile.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The revolver weighs 22 ounces unloaded, with an overall length of 6.55 inches and a height of 4.8 inches. The aluminum frame saves approximately 10 ounces compared to an all-steel equivalent like the Ruger SP101, directly translating to reduced carry fatigue. The cylinder width is 1.4 inches, which is critical for holster selection; most universal J-Frame holsters will fit, but verify internal dimensions match before purchase.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not the firearm for a new shooter seeking a low-recoil training platform or for someone requiring precision beyond 25 yards. The lightweight frame transmits significant felt recoil with standard .38 Special loads, and the short sight radius amplifies aiming errors. If your primary use case is recreational target shooting or you're considering your first firearm, a full-size 9mm like the Stevens 334 Rifle in a pistol-caliber carbine configuration offers a much more forgiving learning curve.

What's in the box?

You receive the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, a factory cable lock, and the owner's manual with warranty card. Taurus does not include a hard case or cleaning kit at this price point. The manual specifically addresses the transfer bar safety operation—read it, as improper handling can damage the mechanism.

Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite worth it at $361.99?

At this price, it represents a functional entry into the concealed-carry revolver category, offering a critical feature (six-shot capacity) often missing from competitors under $400. The investment is justified for an experienced shooter who values the single-action option for practice and understands the trade-offs in recoil management. However, if your budget can stretch to $500, you gain access to used Smith & Wesson models with more established track records for long-term durability and aftermarket support.