Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Concealed Hammer Revolver 2″ 6rd
About this product
What is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Concealed Hammer Revolver? It is a compact, snag-resistant, six-shot revolver designed for close-quarters personal defense and everyday concealed carry. This model pairs a lightweight aluminum-alloy frame with a double-action-only, concealed-hammer mechanism, resulting in a tool calibrated for immediate, snag-free deployment from deep concealment rather than precision target work. Its design philosophy prioritizes reliable function, minimal profile, and manageable recoil from its .38 Special chambering over extended plinking comfort or fine accuracy.
What is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Concealed Hammer Revolver used for?
Its primary use is discreet defensive carry, especially for shooters favoring a simple manual-of-arms and prioritizing a garment-friendly, low-snag profile over adjustable sights or single-action capability. The 2-inch barrel and internal hammer allow it to be drawn quickly from a pocket or inside-the-waistband holster without catching on fabric, while the 22.9-ounce empty weight ensures it won't pull down your belt line like a the Stevens 334 Rifle. For scenarios within 7 yards—typical defensive engagement distances—the fixed ramp-and-notch sight system is adequate.
How does the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite compare to the Smith & Wesson J-Frame Model 642?
The Taurus 856 offers one significant material advantage: capacity. The Smith & Wesson Model 642 Airweight, its closest direct competitor, is generally a 5-shot revolver, while the Taurus 856 retains a 6-shot cylinder within a similarly sized frame. This 20% increase in on-board ammunition is its key tactical advantage, though the S&W 642 typically exhibits a slightly smoother, more refined double-action trigger pull right out of the box.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The unloaded weight is a stated 22.9 ounces, a direct result of the aluminum-alloy frame, and its overall length is precisely 6.55 inches. With a 2.00-inch barrel and a cylinder width of 1.41 inches, it maintains a footprint smaller than many modern micro-compact semi-automatics. For context, it will disappear in a front pants pocket with a properly fitted holster, a feat that would be far more challenging with a larger shotgun like our Stevens 555 Sporting.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for a new shooter seeking an easy-to-shoot practice gun, nor for a hunter needing a primary field sidearm for predator defense. The combination of a 2-inch barrel, light weight, and double-action-only trigger demands focused training to manage the deliberate 12-pound trigger pull and the amplified felt recoil from .38 Special +P ammunition. It is a specialist's tool, excelling in its narrow role but unforgiving of poor fundamentals.
What's in the box?
Expect the factory-standard package: the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, a spare rubber grip panel, a plastic lock, a basic owner's manual, and a cardboard box. Taurus does not include a holster with the 856 Ultra-Lite, which is prudent given the highly individualized nature of effective concealed carry. A decent quality kydex or leather pocket holster is a mandatory $30-$60 add-on purchase for safe carry.
Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite worth it at $335.99?
Absolutely, provided your needs align perfectly with its design parameters. For $335.99, you secure a functional, no-frills defensive firearm that offers a one-round capacity edge over most competing snub-nose revolvers at a price point often $100-$150 lower. You are trading some fit and finish refinement for that capacity and cost savings. If your budget is absolutely fixed and deep concealment is the primary directive, the value proposition is clear.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 22.9 oz unloaded — over 4 oz lighter than an all-steel equivalent.
- Holds 6 rounds in the cylinder — provides a one-round capacity advantage over the typical 5-shot J-frame.
- Concealed hammer design eliminates the primary snag point for pocket or IWB carry.
Trade-offs
- DAO trigger averages 12 lbs — heavier and less refined than a Smith & Wesson 642's trigger out of the box.
- No single-action capability — eliminates the option for a precise, light-trigger shot, a limitation of all concealed-hammer designs.
- Aluminum frame shows wear faster than steel — holster use will reveal the alloy's finish more quickly.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327617501 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-856021ULCH |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Black |
| length | 6.55 |
| model | 856CH |
| package height | 6.2 |
| package width | 2.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.5 |
| sights | FS: Serrated Ramp / RS: Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is rated for standard .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition. However, expect significantly higher felt recoil with +P loads due to the 22.9-ounce frame weight; I strongly recommend a minimum of 50 rounds of standard pressure ammo for initial familiarization before testing +P.
- Does this fit most common small-frame revolver holsters?
- It will generally fit holsters molded for Smith & Wesson J-frame (Models 36, 60, 642) revolvers, which share a similar external profile. For optimal retention, specifically seek a holster listing compatibility with the Taurus 85 or 856 series. The concealed hammer means it will not work with holsters designed for exposed-hammer models that use a hammer strap.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days for in-stock items. Transit time via FedEx or UPS Ground to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder usually adds another 3-7 business days, depending on your location. You must coordinate the transfer directly with your local FFL before ordering.
- Can I use speedloaders with the 856 Ultra-Lite?
- Yes, speedloaders designed for small-frame, 6-shot .38 caliber revolvers, like the HKS 36-A or Safariland Comp I, will function. The rubber grip has a pronounced swell, so test-fit your chosen speedloader; some models may require minor clearance or the use of a slightly offset carrier.