Taurus 856 .38 Special 6-Round Revolver, Stainless Steel Finish

The Taurus 856 is a 6-round .38 Special revolver built for shooters who need reliable performance in a compact, carryable package. With its stainless steel finish and 2-inch barrel, the 856 strikes a practical balance between shootability and portability—equally at home for personal defense, backup carry, or home protection. The double/single action trigger gives you flexibility: double-action capability for a deliberate first shot, or single-action mode for faster follow-ups if needed. Recoil impulse is manageable, making it approachable for shooters of varying experience levels and build.

Ammunition versatility is a real advantage here. The .38 Special chambering accepts everything from light target loads for practice to full-power self-defense rounds, so you can tailor your load to the mission without changing guns. That flexibility, combined with the 2-inch barrel's natural speed in and out of a holster, makes the 856 a legitimate choice whether you're carrying on-body or keeping one accessible at home. The revolver's simple, proven mechanical design means less to go wrong and straightforward maintenance.

This isn't a flashy gun. It's a no-nonsense revolver that does what it's designed to do: carry reliably, shoot straight, and stay out of your way. Whether you're a first-time revolver buyer, a seasoned shooter building a backup, or someone serious about home defense, the 856 deserves consideration.

Key Features

• 6-round cylinder in .38 Special
• 2-inch barrel optimized for carry and quick deployment
• Double/single action trigger for flexibility and faster follow-up shots
• Stainless steel finish resists corrosion
• Manageable recoil suitable for various shooter skill levels
• Accepts light target loads through full-power self-defense ammunition

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Taurus 856 good for concealed carry?

Yes. The 2-inch barrel and compact frame make it well-suited for on-body carry in a holster or in a bag. Its size and weight balance concealability with enough mass to shoot comfortably.

What ammunition can I shoot in the 856?

The 856 handles .38 Special ammunition across the spectrum—light practice loads, mid-range rounds, and full-power self-defense loads. You can choose your load based on your intended use without changing firearms.

What's the difference between double-action and single-action mode on this revolver?

In double-action, pulling the trigger both cocks and fires the revolver—one continuous motion. In single-action, you manually cock the hammer first, then the trigger press is lighter and shorter, allowing faster follow-up shots. The 856's DA/SA design lets you use either method depending on the situation.

Is the stainless steel finish corrosion-resistant?

Stainless steel resists rust and corrosion better than blued steel, making it a lower-maintenance finish for defensive and carry guns. That said, all firearms benefit from regular cleaning and light oiling.