Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Revolver: The Ultimate Compact Solution for Personal Defense

Are you searching for a reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-handle firearm for personal protection? Do you need a dependable companion for concealed carry (CCW) that won't weigh you down, yet offers potent stopping power? Look no further than the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite, specifically the 2-85621ULC21 model. This exceptional 6-shot, 2-inch barrel revolver chambered in .38 Special has quickly become a top choice for individuals prioritizing discreet carry, home defense, and a straightforward, robust design. Available at DEGuns, it represents a smart investment in your personal safety.

Why Choose a Revolver for Self-Defense?

For many, the revolver remains the quintessential self-defense firearm, offering distinct advantages over semi-automatic pistols, especially for new shooters or those seeking absolute simplicity and reliability. Here’s why the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite excels in this role:

• Unparalleled Reliability: Revolvers are renowned for their mechanical simplicity and inherent reliability. Unlike semi-automatics, which can be prone to feeding or ejection malfunctions caused by ammunition variations or improper grip, a revolver typically fires every round when the trigger is pulled, making it incredibly dependable in high-stress situations.
• Ease of Use: There’s no slide to rack, no magazine to insert (unless reloading), and minimal manual of arms to master. Simply load the cylinder, point, and pull the trigger. This makes the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite an excellent choice for home defense, where immediate response is critical, or for individuals with limited hand strength.
• Concealed Carry (CCW) Friendly: Its compact dimensions, particularly the 2-inch barrel and snag-free design, make it remarkably easy to conceal in a variety of carry methods, from inside-the-waistband (IWB) to pocket carry.
• Versatile Ammunition: While primarily chambered in .38 Special, many models, including the 856 Ultra-Lite, are rated for .38 Special +P ammunition, offering an increased power factor for enhanced defensive capabilities.

Understanding the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite: Model 2-85621ULC21

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a masterclass in combining essential features with lightweight design. The model 2-85621ULC21, with its distinctive anodized tungsten aluminum frame and matte black steel barrel, stands out for both its aesthetic appeal and its practical engineering.

Lightweight Engineering for Effortless Carry

One of the most compelling features of the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is its "Ultra-Lite" designation, achieved primarily through its advanced frame construction. The frame is crafted from anodized tungsten aluminum. This choice of material is crucial for several reasons:

• Reduced Weight: Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, contributing to the revolver's overall low weight (typically around 16 ounces unloaded). This makes the 856 Ultra-Lite exceptionally comfortable for all-day concealed carry, reducing fatigue and allowing for greater discretion.
• Durability and Corrosion Resistance: Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a durable, corrosion-resistant, anodic oxide finish. The tungsten coloring provides a sleek, modern appearance while adding an extra layer of protection against the elements, sweat, and daily wear and tear. This ensures the longevity and reliable performance of your firearm even with regular use.

Robust Barrel and Reliable Cylinder

While the frame is light, the critical components responsible for accuracy and safe operation are built for strength:

• Matte Black Steel Barrel: The 2-inch barrel is constructed from high-quality steel, finished in a matte black. Steel is essential for resisting the immense pressures generated during firing, ensuring accuracy, and providing a long service life. The short barrel length is ideal for close-quarters defense and maximum concealability.
• Six-Round Capacity: Unlike many compact revolvers that offer only five rounds, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite provides a six-round cylinder capacity. This extra round significantly increases your defensive capability, offering more opportunities to neutralize a threat without needing to reload.

Comfort and Control with an Ergonomic Grip

The rubber grip of the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is designed with shooter comfort and control in mind. Even with a lightweight firearm and potent .38 Special rounds, a well-designed grip can mitigate felt recoil and improve handling:

• Enhanced Purchase: The rubber material provides excellent traction, allowing for a secure and comfortable hold, even in adverse conditions or when hands are sweaty.
• Recoil Absorption: The inherent cushioning of the rubber helps absorb some of the recoil energy, making the shooting experience more manageable, particularly for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil. This contributes to better control and faster follow-up shots.
• Ergonomic Design: The grip is contoured to fit naturally in the hand, promoting a consistent and stable hold, which is crucial for accurate shot placement.

Key Features and User Benefits

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite 2-85621ULC21 is packed with features that make it a compelling choice for personal defense:

• Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) Capability: This revolver offers the versatility of both double-action and single-action firing modes.
  • Double Action (DA): A longer, heavier trigger pull that simultaneously cocks the hammer and releases it, ideal for quick, self-defense situations where a deliberate, safe first shot is paramount.
  • Single Action (SA): After the hammer is manually cocked (or if fired once in DA), subsequent shots (if not manually reset) will have a much lighter, crisper trigger pull, conducive to more precise shooting.
• Fixed Sights: The integrated fixed sights are low-profile and snag-free, ensuring the revolver draws smoothly from a holster without catching on clothing or gear. While fixed, they are typically factory-tuned for practical defensive distances.
• Transfer Bar Safety System: Taurus revolvers incorporate a transfer bar safety system, which is a key trust-building feature. This mechanism prevents the hammer from directly striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled, significantly reducing the risk of accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped. This feature contributes to peace of mind for responsible gun owners.
• Compact Dimensions: With its 2-inch barrel and lightweight frame, the 856 Ultra-Lite is designed for optimal concealability, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry.
• Reliable for Self-Defense: Chambered in .38 Special, a proven self-defense cartridge, and capable of handling +P ammunition, this revolver offers adequate stopping power for most personal defense scenarios.
• Ease of Maintenance: Revolvers are generally simpler to clean and maintain than semi-automatic pistols, requiring less intricate disassembly.

Who Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite For?

This versatile revolver addresses the needs of a wide range of users:

• First-Time Gun Owners: Its simplicity, reliability, and emphasis on safety make it an excellent starter firearm for those new to handgun ownership.
• Concealed Carry Permit Holders: Its compact size and light weight are perfect for discreet daily carry, whether in a holster, purse, or pocket.
• Home Defense Enthusiasts: For home protection, the 856 Ultra-Lite offers immediate readiness without complex controls, making it accessible to any adult in the household in an emergency.
• Those Seeking a Backup Gun (BUG): Its small footprint makes it an ideal secondary firearm for law enforcement or security professionals.
• Individuals with Limited Hand Strength: The revolver format, without the need to rack a slide, can be easier to manipulate for those with weaker grip strength.

Addressing Common Questions About Compact Revolvers and .38 Special

• Is a .38 Special powerful enough for self-defense?
  Yes, absolutely. While not the most powerful handgun cartridge, the .38 Special, especially modern defensive loads (including +P options), has a long and proven track record for self-defense. Shot placement is always paramount, and the 856 Ultra-Lite's ease of use aids in accurate shooting.
• What is the recoil like on a lightweight .38 Special?
  Being a lightweight firearm chambered in a respectable cartridge, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite will have noticeable recoil. However, the ergonomic rubber grip significantly helps in managing this. For those sensitive to recoil, practicing with standard pressure .38 Special ammunition is recommended, and then gradually transitioning to +P loads if desired for defensive purposes.
• How do I clean and maintain my Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?
  Maintaining your revolver is straightforward. Regular cleaning of the bore, cylinder chambers, and critical action components with appropriate cleaning solvents and lubricants will ensure reliable operation and longevity. Consult your owner's manual for detailed instructions, but typically, a cleaning rod, brushes, patches, and a quality gun oil are all you need.
• Can I shoot .38 Special +P ammunition in my Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?
  Yes, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is rated for safe use with .38 Special +P ammunition. While +P loads offer increased velocity and energy, they also generate higher pressures and more recoil. It's advisable to limit the amount of +P ammunition used during practice to preserve the firearm's lifespan and to focus on mastering control with standard loads first.
• What type of holsters are best for the 856 Ultra-Lite?
  Given its compact size, the 856 Ultra-Lite is highly versatile. Popular holster options include inside-the-waistband (IWB) for deep concealment, outside-the-waistband (OWB) for comfort and easy access, pocket holsters for maximum discretion, and even appendix carry (AIWB). The best holster depends on your body type, clothing, and personal preferences for comfort and accessibility.

Taurus: A Legacy of Innovation and Value

Taurus is a brand with a strong commitment to providing reliable, affordable firearms that meet the needs of diverse shooters. Their dedication to innovation is evident in designs like the 856 Ultra-Lite, which offers advanced materials and features typically found in higher-priced firearms. When you choose a Taurus firearm, you're investing in a product backed by a company that understands the importance of personal safety and offers a comprehensive warranty, further building trust in their products.

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite 2-85621ULC21 embodies this philosophy, delivering exceptional value, robust performance, and peace of mind in a compact, easy-to-carry package. It's a testament to effective engineering for real-world self-defense scenarios.

Availability

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite, model 2-85621ULC21, is available at DEGuns. As a trusted retailer, DEGuns ensures you receive genuine products with excellent customer service and support, making your firearm acquisition process smooth and reliable.

Feature	Specification
Model	Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite
Caliber	.38 Special
Capacity	6 Rounds
Barrel Length	2 Inches
Frame Material	Anodized Tungsten Aluminum
Barrel Material	Matte Black Steel
Grip	Rubber
Action Type	Double Action / Single Action (DA/SA)
Safety System	Transfer Bar
Overall Weight	Approximately 16 oz (unloaded)

Attribute	Description
Primary Use	Personal Defense, Concealed Carry, Home Defense
Key Advantage 1	Ultra-Lightweight (Aluminum Frame)
Key Advantage 2	Six-Round Capacity (.38 Special)
Key Advantage 3	Reliable & Simple Operation
Manufacturer SKU	2-85621ULC21
UPC	725327618070