Taurus 856 Revolver: Your Trusted Companion for Personal Protection and Everyday Carry

Choosing a firearm for personal defense is a significant decision, and for many, the timeless reliability and straightforward operation of a revolver offer unmatched peace of mind. The Taurus 856 in .38 Special +P stands out as an exceptional choice, meticulously engineered to provide dependable protection in a compact, durable, and aesthetically pleasing package. This is not just a firearm; it's a commitment to your safety and security, designed for those who value classic form combined with modern capability.

Why Choose a Compact Revolver for Personal Defense?

Many individuals, from seasoned firearm enthusiasts to those new to personal protection, often ask, "What's the best type of handgun for self-defense?" While various options exist, compact revolvers like the Taurus 856 offer distinct advantages, particularly for concealed carry and home defense.

• Simplicity and Reliability: Revolvers are renowned for their mechanical simplicity. Fewer moving parts mean fewer points of potential failure, leading to exceptional reliability even under stressful conditions. When every second counts, knowing your firearm will perform as expected is invaluable.
• Ease of Use: With no external safeties to manipulate (beyond safe handling practices), revolvers are inherently intuitive. Point, aim, and pull the trigger. This makes them an excellent option for new shooters or for anyone who prioritizes immediate readiness.
• Ammunition Versatility: The .38 Special caliber, especially when rated for +P ammunition, offers a proven track record for defensive purposes. It strikes a balance between manageable recoil and effective stopping power, making it a versatile choice for a broad range of users.
• Durability and Low Maintenance: The robust construction typical of revolvers, particularly those made from stainless steel, means they can withstand harsh conditions and require less rigorous cleaning than some semi-automatics.
• Concealability: With a short barrel and streamlined profile, the Taurus 856 is designed to be easily concealed, fitting comfortably in various holsters for discreet everyday carry (EDC).

The Taurus 856: Engineering Excellence Meets Classic Design

The Taurus 856 isn't just another compact revolver; it's a thoughtfully crafted instrument of personal safety. Whether you're considering a new firearm for concealed carry, seeking a reliable backup gun, or needing an intuitive option for home defense, this revolver addresses these needs with precision and style.

• Robust Stainless Steel Construction: At the heart of the Taurus 856 is its premium stainless steel frame and barrel. This material choice is paramount for a self-defense firearm, offering superior corrosion resistance and exceptional durability. Stainless steel ensures that your revolver will withstand the rigors of daily carry, environmental exposure, and consistent training, maintaining its integrity and performance for years to come. This strength also contributes to effectively managing the recoil of .38 Special +P rounds, providing a more comfortable shooting experience.
• Elegant Walnut Grips: Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the rich walnut grips on the Taurus 856 are ergonomically designed for a secure and comfortable hold. The natural texture of the wood provides a non-slip surface, enhancing control and confidence during firing. For users concerned with recoil, these grips help distribute the force, making follow-up shots quicker and more accurate. The classic look of walnut also adds a touch of timeless sophistication, distinguishing it from many contemporary designs.
• Optimized 2-Inch Barrel: The 2-inch barrel is a critical feature for a concealed carry weapon. It minimizes the overall length of the revolver, making it incredibly compact and easy to conceal under various types of clothing. Despite its short length, the barrel is precisely engineered to maximize the ballistic performance of the .38 Special +P cartridge, ensuring effective energy transfer at typical self-defense distances. This balance of size and power is what makes the Taurus 856 such a formidable personal protection tool.
• 6-Round Capacity for Confident Carry: With a 6-round cylinder, the Taurus 856 provides an additional round compared to many 5-shot compact revolvers in its class. This extra round significantly boosts confidence, providing a greater margin of safety in critical situations. While capacity is always a consideration, for a compact carry revolver, six rounds of .38 Special +P offer a substantial deterrent and defensive capability.
• Versatile .38 Special +P Rating: The ability to safely fire .38 Special +P (Plus P) ammunition is a crucial advantage. This designation indicates that the revolver is engineered to handle higher-pressure loads, which typically deliver greater muzzle velocity and energy compared to standard .38 Special rounds. This versatility allows users to choose from a wider range of modern defensive ammunition, optimizing performance for personal safety needs.
• Smooth Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) Operation: The Taurus 856 operates in both double action (DA) and single action (SA) modes. In double action, pulling the trigger cocks and releases the hammer, providing a consistent, deliberate pull for self-defense scenarios. For more precise, aimed shots at the range, the hammer can be manually cocked for a lighter, crisper single action pull. This dual functionality offers flexibility for different shooting preferences and situations.
• Fixed Sights for Reliable Aiming: Equipped with fixed front and rear sights, the Taurus 856 offers a simple, snag-free sight picture. Fixed sights are robust and require no adjustments, ensuring they are always ready and aligned when you need them most. This design is ideal for the close-range, high-stress encounters typical of self-defense, where rapid target acquisition is paramount.

Who Benefits Most from the Taurus 856?

The Taurus 856 is designed to meet the needs of a diverse group of individuals seeking reliable personal protection.

• First-Time Firearm Owners: Its simplicity of operation and reliable mechanics make it less intimidating for newcomers. Training with the 856 builds fundamental shooting skills without the complexities of field stripping or magazine loading found in semi-automatics.
• Concealed Carry Permit Holders: Its compact size and lightweight profile make it an excellent choice for everyday concealed carry. It disappears easily under clothing and is comfortable for all-day wear.
• Individuals Seeking Home Defense Solutions: For home protection, the 856 offers an accessible and dependable option. Its straightforward operation ensures that it can be quickly and effectively deployed in an emergency, even in low-light or high-stress situations.
• Those Who Value Simplicity and Dependability: If you prioritize a firearm that simply works, every time, without complex features or manual safeties to remember, the 856 aligns perfectly with that philosophy.
• Fans of Classic Revolver Design: The stainless steel finish paired with rich walnut grips offers a timeless aesthetic that appeals to those who appreciate traditional firearm craftsmanship alongside modern performance.

Mastering Your Taurus 856: Training and Safety

Owning a firearm like the Taurus 856 is a responsibility that comes with a commitment to safe handling and regular training.

• Understanding .38 Special +P Ammunition: While the 856 is rated for +P, it's important to understand what this means. +P loads generate higher pressures and generally more recoil. For practice, standard .38 Special ammunition is typically more comfortable and cost-effective. For defensive use, select high-quality jacketed hollow-point (JHP) +P ammunition from reputable manufacturers.
• Recoil Management: Despite its compact size, the .38 Special +P can have a noticeable recoil impulse. Proper grip technique – a firm, high grip with both hands – is essential for managing recoil and ensuring quick follow-up shots. Practicing with both hands will help build confidence and proficiency.
• Dry Fire Practice: A safe and effective way to build muscle memory is through dry fire practice. With an unloaded revolver, practice your grip, sight alignment, and smooth trigger pull. This helps to ingrain proper technique without expending ammunition. Always double and triple check that your firearm is unloaded before dry fire.
• Range Training: Consistent live-fire training at a qualified shooting range is crucial. Focus on fundamental marksmanship: stance, grip, sight alignment, sight picture, and trigger control. Practice drawing from your preferred holster (if applicable) and re-engaging targets.
• Firearm Safety Rules: Always adhere to the four fundamental rules of firearm safety:
  1. Treat every gun as if it were loaded.
  2. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
  3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you have made the decision to shoot.
  4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.
• Secure Storage: When not in use, your Taurus 856 should be stored securely to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. Options include quality gun safes, lockboxes, or secure storage vaults.

Taurus has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and accessible firearms. The 856 model builds upon this legacy, offering a modern interpretation of the classic compact revolver. It's built with precision and designed for practical use, ensuring that it meets the demands of personal protection. When you choose a Taurus 856, you're investing in a product backed by a commitment to quality and user satisfaction.

For those seeking an effective, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing firearm for self-defense or everyday carry, the Taurus 856 chambered in .38 Special +P with its durable stainless steel construction and classic walnut grips is an outstanding choice. It's a firearm that embodies simplicity, dependability, and confidence, ready to serve as your trusted companion.

The Taurus 856 Revolver is available for purchase at DEGuns.

Key Specifications of the Taurus 856 Revolver

Feature	Specification
Model	Taurus 856 (2-856021SW)
Caliber	.38 Special +P
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	2 Inches
Frame Material	Stainless Steel
Barrel Material	Stainless Steel
Grip Material	Walnut
Action	Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA)
Sights	Fixed Front and Rear
UPC	725327934004