The Enduring Appeal of the Taurus 856: A Premier Choice for Personal Protection and Concealed Carry

When evaluating options for personal defense, many individuals seek a firearm that balances reliability, ease of use, and effective stopping power. The Taurus 856, specifically the Taurus 2-856029SW 856 .38 Spl + P 6rd 2" Stainless Steel Walnut Grip model, emerges as a highly compelling candidate. This particular revolver marries classic design with modern capabilities, offering a dependable solution for a wide array of users, from seasoned firearm owners to those new to personal protection.

For anyone asking questions like, "What is the best compact revolver for concealed carry?" or "Which handgun offers reliable performance for home defense without being overly complex?", the Taurus 856 deserves serious consideration. It addresses the core needs of self-defense: immediate readiness, straightforward operation, and a robust build designed to perform when it matters most.

Why a Revolver Remains a Top Choice for Self-Defense

In a world of increasingly complex firearms, the revolver stands as a testament to simplicity and inherent reliability. Unlike semi-automatic pistols with their magazines, slides, and intricate mechanics, a revolver typically operates with fewer moving parts, reducing potential points of failure. This design philosophy is precisely why many choose a revolver for critical self-defense situations. When every second counts, knowing your firearm will function flawlessly without the need for complex manipulations is invaluable.

The Taurus 856 embodies these revolver advantages. Its double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system offers versatility: a long, deliberate double-action pull for safety and a crisp, lighter single-action pull for precise shot placement when time allows. This simplicity makes it an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize point-and-shoot functionality under stress.

Unpacking the Features of the Taurus 856 .38 Special +P

The Taurus 2-856029SW model is meticulously crafted to offer a blend of performance, durability, and classic aesthetics. Let's delve into its key characteristics:

Caliber and Ballistic Performance: The .38 Special +P Advantage

Chambered in .38 Special, this revolver gains an added layer of capability with its +P rating. What does this mean for the user? The "+P" designation indicates that the firearm is engineered to safely handle higher-pressure ammunition than standard .38 Special loads. This translates directly to enhanced ballistic performance, offering increased muzzle velocity and energy. For self-defense, this can mean more reliable expansion of hollow-point projectiles and greater incapacitation potential.

Choosing the right ammunition for your Taurus 856 is crucial. For personal protection, modern jacketed hollow-point (JHP) rounds designed for short-barreled revolvers are often recommended. These specific loads are optimized to expand reliably even at the lower velocities typically associated with a 2-inch barrel, maximizing their effectiveness. Whether you're considering "what is the best ammunition for a 2-inch .38 special revolver?" or "how do I ensure reliable stopping power?", the .38 Special +P capability of the Taurus 856 provides a robust answer.

Capacity: Six Rounds of Reliable Protection

The Taurus 856 boasts a 6-round capacity. While some semi-automatics may offer higher capacities, six rounds of .38 Special +P ammunition in a revolver provide a substantial deterrent and sufficient firepower for the vast majority of civilian self-defense encounters. The emphasis here is on reliability—each chamber acts as its own separate firing system, ensuring that a problematic round won't necessarily jam the entire firearm, a potential issue with magazine-fed designs. For those wondering, "Is six rounds enough for self-defense?", statistics often show that most defensive incidents are resolved with fewer shots fired, making the 856's capacity perfectly adequate for its intended purpose.

Barrel Length: The Art of Concealment

With its 2-inch barrel, the Taurus 856 is squarely in the category of "snub-nose" revolvers, which are renowned for their exceptional concealability. This compact size makes it an ideal choice for everyday carry (EDC), easily fitting into IWB (inside-the-waistband) holsters, ankle holsters, or even pocket holsters with the right setup. Its short barrel minimizes printing, allowing users to carry discreetly and comfortably, a primary concern for many seeking a personal defense firearm.

While a shorter barrel might slightly reduce bullet velocity compared to longer barrels, the performance of modern .38 Special +P ammunition still ensures effective ballistic results at typical self-defense distances. This balance of compact form factor and potent caliber makes the 856 a highly practical choice for discreet protection.

Construction Material: Stainless Steel Durability

The stainless steel construction of the Taurus 856 is a significant advantage. Stainless steel is known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion and wear, making it an ideal material for a firearm that might be subjected to varying environmental conditions, including sweat from concealed carry. This robust material contributes to the revolver's longevity and ensures it remains functional and reliable even with consistent use and carrying. Furthermore, the inherent weight of stainless steel helps to effectively manage recoil, making the shooting experience more comfortable, particularly with +P loads. This durable finish also simplifies maintenance and cleaning, allowing the user to focus on training and readiness.

Grips: Classic Walnut for Comfort and Control

The inclusion of walnut grips on this specific Taurus 856 model elevates its aesthetic appeal while providing practical benefits. Walnut is a traditional material for firearm grips, valued for its natural beauty and ergonomic properties. These grips offer a comfortable and secure hold, which is vital for managing recoil and maintaining control, especially in a compact firearm. The natural texture of the wood also provides a positive gripping surface, enhancing stability and accuracy during firing. For users who appreciate the timeless look and feel of a classic revolver, the walnut grips are a distinguishing feature that combines heritage with modern defensive capability.

Who is the Taurus 856 Designed For?

The versatile design and reliable performance of the Taurus 856 make it an excellent fit for several distinct user profiles:

• Concealed Carry Permit Holders: Its compact size, lightweight design (for a steel frame), and potent .38 Special +P chambering make it an outstanding choice for everyday discreet carry. If you're searching for "the best small revolver for CCW" or "reliable concealed carry option," the 856 fits the bill.
• Home Defense Enthusiasts: For those seeking a straightforward, dependable firearm for protecting their home and family, the 856 offers intuitive operation and ample stopping power without the complexities of many tactical firearms. It answers the question, "What is an easy-to-use handgun for home protection?"
• First-Time Firearm Owners: The simplicity of revolver operation, combined with manageable recoil (especially with standard .38 Special loads), makes the 856 an accessible entry point into responsible firearm ownership. Questions like "What handgun is good for beginners?" or "How do I choose my first self-defense firearm?" are often best addressed by a reliable revolver like this.
• Individuals Seeking a Reliable Backup Gun (BUG): Its compact dimensions allow for easy carry as a secondary firearm, providing an extra layer of security.
• Collectors Appreciating Classic Design: The stainless steel frame coupled with elegant walnut grips offers a timeless aesthetic that appeals to those who value the traditional look and feel of a quality revolver.

Addressing Common Questions and Concerns about the Taurus 856

Is the Taurus 856 a reliable firearm?

Absolutely. Taurus has made significant strides in quality control and manufacturing in recent years, and the 856 series has earned a reputation for dependable performance. Its revolver design inherently contributes to high reliability, as there are fewer mechanisms to malfunction compared to semi-automatic pistols. Regular cleaning and maintenance, as with any firearm, will ensure its continued reliability.

How accurate is a 2-inch barrel revolver like the 856?

While a shorter barrel generally means a shorter sight radius (the distance between the front and rear sights), which can challenge precise aim at longer distances, the 2-inch Taurus 856 is perfectly accurate for its intended purpose: self-defense at close to moderate ranges. Within typical defensive distances (7-15 yards), the 856 is more than capable of delivering accurate shots with proper training and practice. Many users find it surprisingly accurate for a "snubby."

How does the Taurus 856 handle recoil, especially with +P ammunition?

The stainless steel frame of the Taurus 856 adds a beneficial amount of weight, which helps to absorb and mitigate recoil. While .38 Special +P loads will naturally produce more felt recoil than standard .38 Special, most shooters find the recoil manageable, especially with the ergonomic walnut grips providing a secure purchase. For practice, many choose to train with standard .38 Special loads and reserve the +P ammunition for carry. Learning proper grip and stance techniques further enhances recoil control.

What kind of maintenance does the Taurus 856 require?

Revolvers are generally straightforward to clean and maintain. After each range session or extended carry, a basic cleaning of the barrel, cylinder, and frame is recommended. Thanks to its stainless steel construction, rust and corrosion are less of a concern than with carbon steel firearms, but still, proper cleaning and light lubrication are essential for optimal performance and longevity. Users looking for "how to clean a revolver" will find the process simple and quick for the 856.

The Taurus 856: A Smart Investment in Personal Safety

The Taurus 2-856029SW 856 .38 Spl + P 6rd 2" Stainless Steel Walnut Grip represents a highly effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for personal defense. It offers a unique blend of traditional revolver simplicity, modern material durability, and potent self-defense capability in a compact package. Its ability to chamber .38 Special +P ammunition provides an added layer of confidence, while its stainless steel construction ensures long-term reliability. The classic walnut grips not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to a comfortable and secure shooting experience.

Whether you are looking for a primary concealed carry weapon, a reliable firearm for home protection, or simply appreciate the timeless design of a well-built revolver, the Taurus 856 stands out as a prudent and effective choice. It answers the call for a reliable, easy-to-operate firearm that performs consistently when it matters most.

For those interested in acquiring this exceptional firearm, the Taurus 856 with stainless steel and walnut grips (UPC: 725327934011) is readily available.

Where to Find Your Taurus 856

When considering a purchase of a firearm as important as the Taurus 856 for personal protection, choosing a reputable and knowledgeable seller is paramount. All Taurus 856 models, including this specific stainless steel variant with walnut grips, are available at DEGuns.com. DEGuns offers a comprehensive selection of firearms, competitive pricing, and a commitment to customer service and expert guidance, ensuring you make an informed decision for your personal safety needs.

Taurus 856 Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Taurus 856
Caliber	.38 Special +P
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	2.00 Inches
Frame Material	Stainless Steel
Grip Material	Walnut
Action	Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA)
UPC	725327934011