Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special Revolver, Matte Natural, 2" Barrel - Model 2-856029ULVL

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special revolver is a lightweight, carry-ready wheelgun built for shooters who need a reliable pocket or backup gun without the bulk. Chambered in .38 Special +P, this compact 2-inch barrel revolver combines proven double/single-action reliability with modern carry features—including a Viridian red laser grip—making it equally at home on a nightstand, in an ankle holster, or riding in a jacket pocket. At just 16 ounces unloaded, the 856 Ultra-Lite won't slow you down, but its 6-round capacity and fixed sights deliver the stopping power and simplicity revolver shooters trust.

Built on an alloy frame with a carbon steel cylinder, the 856 Ultra-Lite balances weight savings with durability. The transfer bar safety prevents accidental discharge from drops or snags, a critical feature for any defensive revolver. Whether you carry in double-action mode for the first shot or shoot single-action at the range, the trigger action is consistent and reliable—no finicky safeties to fumble in a critical moment. The serrated ramp front sight and fixed rear sight are functional, unadorned, and designed to get on target fast.

The Viridian red laser grip included with this model transforms low-light engagement and increases shot placement accuracy, especially valuable if you're carrying for personal defense. Soft rubber grips absorb recoil and provide a secure hold, even under stress. The matte natural finish resists glare and corrosion, keeping your revolver ready and discreet. With an overall length of just 6.55 inches and height of 4.8 inches, the 856 Ultra-Lite is one of the flattest, most concealable .38 Specials in its class.

If you're building a carry rotation, upgrading from a larger service revolver, or just want a no-frills defensive backup that shoots straight and doesn't quit, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite deserves a serious look. It's the kind of revolver that stays loaded and forgotten until the day you're grateful you carried it.

Key Features

• Lightweight alloy frame (16 oz unloaded) for everyday carry comfort
• Double/Single-Action trigger for versatility at the range or in the field
• .38 Special +P chambering with 6-round capacity
• Includes Viridian red laser grip for low-light accuracy
• Transfer bar safety prevents accidental discharge
• Serrated ramp front sight and fixed rear sight for fast target acquisition
• Compact 2-inch barrel optimized for concealed carry
• Carbon steel cylinder and matte natural finish resist corrosion

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What's included with the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?

This model ships with the Viridian red laser grip, which mounts directly to the revolver and provides fast, accurate aiming in low-light conditions—a feature especially valuable if you're carrying for personal defense or backup duty.

Is the 856 Ultra-Lite suitable for concealed carry?

Yes. At 16 ounces unloaded with a 2-inch barrel and overall dimensions of just 6.55 inches long and 4.8 inches tall, the 856 Ultra-Lite is one of the most compact, lightweight .38 Specials on the market. Its slim profile and featherweight construction make it ideal for pocket, ankle, or appendix carry without printing or fatigue.

Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in the 856 Ultra-Lite, or only .38 Special +P?

The revolver accepts both standard .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition. The +P designation on the revolver simply indicates its cylinder and frame are rated for the higher pressures of +P loads; you can safely shoot standard .38 Special rounds as well.

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

In double-action mode, pulling the trigger both cocks and fires the hammer in one motion—ideal for a defensive first shot. Single-action mode (manually cock the hammer first, then trigger-press) gives you a shorter, lighter trigger break and is preferred for precise shooting at the range. The 856 Ultra-Lite lets you switch between both modes on any shot.