Taurus 850 38Spl 3 Blk 5Rd
The Taurus 850 .38 Special revolver is a compact, modern snub-nose built for concealed carry without compromise. With a 3-inch barrel and lightweight alloy-steel construction, this five-shot revolver delivers the classic revolver reliability shooters trust in a package that stays hidden under everyday clothes. The fully shrouded hammer and streamlined profile minimize printing and snag during the draw—essential when your carry gun needs to disappear into an IWB holster or pocket.
The double-action-only trigger system gives you a consistent, predictable press every time, and the .38 Special chambering offers proven stopping power with recoil you can manage through rapid follow-up shots. Whether you're breaking in a snub-nose for the first time or adding another compact revolver to your rotation, the 850 handles like a purpose-built defensive tool, not a compromise.
The removable serrated front sight and fixed rear sight keep things simple and durable—no electronics, no batteries, no moving parts to break. At 22.75 ounces unloaded, the 850 won't fatigue you on an all-day carry, and the compact dimensions (8.66 inches overall length) fit ankle, appendix, and pocket holsters without printing. The five-round cylinder is compatible with standard small-frame speed loaders, so reloading at the range or range training stays straightforward.
Key Features
- Fully shrouded hammer for snag-free draw and concealment
- Double-action-only trigger for consistent defensive performance
- Five-round .38 Special cylinder—proven self-defense caliber with manageable recoil
- Matte black finish resists shine and corrosion
- Removable serrated front sight and fixed rear sight for reliable aiming
- Compact, lightweight design minimizes printing under clothing
- Small-frame footprint fits standard concealed-carry and pocket holsters
Specifications
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.66 inches |
| Overall Height | 4.59 inches |
| Overall Width | 1.34 inches |
| Unloaded Weight | 22.75 oz |
| Frame Material | Alloy Steel |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Action Type | Double-Action-Only (DAO) |
| Front Sight | Removable Serrated Blade |
| Rear Sight | Fixed |
| Rifling | 6 Grooves, 1:16.5-inch RH Twist |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Taurus 850 good for concealed carry?
Yes. The shrouded hammer, compact profile, and lightweight design make the 850 ideal for concealed carry. Its small frame (8.66 inches long, 22.75 ounces) hides easily under normal clothing without printing, and the snag-free hammer won't catch during the draw from a holster or pocket.
What holsters and speed loaders will work with the Taurus 850?
The 850's small-frame footprint is compatible with a wide variety of concealed-carry holsters and speed loaders designed for compact five-shot revolvers. Check your holster or loader compatibility for this specific frame size.
How much recoil does the .38 Special produce in the Taurus 850?
The .38 Special is known for manageable recoil, and the 850's 22.75-ounce weight helps absorb it. Follow-up shots are controllable, making this a practical choice for defensive training and carry.
Is the Taurus 850 double-action only?
Yes. The 850 features a double-action-only (DAO) trigger system, which provides a consistent press for every shot and is a common choice for defensive revolvers.

