The Taurus 856 Revolver: Your Trusted Companion for Personal Defense and Everyday Readiness

In an ever-evolving world where personal safety and security are paramount, the choice of a reliable self-defense tool becomes crucial. The Taurus 856 revolver in Matte Stainless emerges as an exemplary option, meticulously engineered to provide dependable performance when it matters most. This compact yet powerful 6-shot .38 Special revolver is designed for individuals seeking a straightforward, robust, and effective firearm for a variety of critical applications, including concealed carry, home defense, and even as a consistent training platform at the range.

The Taurus 856 addresses a fundamental need for a firearm that is both easy to operate under pressure and comfortable to handle during practice sessions. Its intuitive design, combined with its renowned reliability, makes it an excellent choice for both seasoned firearm owners looking for a practical carry piece and those new to responsible gun ownership. At its core, the 856 is about delivering peace of mind through a blend of classic revolver dependability and modern ergonomic enhancements.

Why Choose the Taurus 856? Answering Your Top Questions

Many individuals considering a firearm for personal protection often ask, "What is the best option for concealed carry that isn't overly complicated?" or "Is a .38 Special still relevant for self-defense?" The Taurus 856 provides compelling answers to these and other common inquiries.

Is the Taurus 856 a good choice for concealed carry (CCW)?

Absolutely. The Taurus 856 is exceptionally well-suited for concealed carry. Its compact dimensions, particularly the 2.00-inch barrel and an overall length of just 6.55 inches, allow for effortless concealment in a variety of holsters, whether you prefer inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), appendix carry, or even certain pocket carry setups. Weighing in at a mere 22.00 ounces, this revolver offers a comfortable carry experience throughout the day without being cumbersome or burdensome.

Furthermore, the design of a revolver inherently offers fewer external snag points compared to many semi-automatic pistols, which can be a significant advantage during a rapid draw. The simplicity of operation – point and shoot – means less to think about in high-stress situations, making it a favorite for those prioritizing intuitive functionality for self-defense. The inclusion of a removable serrated front sight further optimizes its suitability for on-body or off-body carry, allowing for potential customization or ensuring a snag-free draw from a variety of holsters.

What makes the .38 Special caliber ideal for self-defense and training?

The .38 Special round, a classic and time-tested cartridge, offers a superb balance of manageable recoil and effective stopping power for personal defense. The Taurus 856 is chambered for both standard .38 Special and the more potent .38 Special +P ammunition, providing users with versatility in ammunition selection. For practice and target shooting, standard .38 Special loads are economical and provide a smooth shooting experience, allowing shooters to focus on fundamental skills without excessive recoil.

When it comes to self-defense, the ability to utilize .38 Special +P rounds significantly enhances the cartridge's effectiveness. These higher-pressure loads deliver increased velocity and energy, making them suitable for critical defensive scenarios. Despite its power, the inherent design of the Taurus 856, particularly its soft rubber grips, excels at mitigating felt recoil, making follow-up shots faster and more accurate even for those sensitive to recoil. This combination of versatile ammunition capability and comfortable shooting characteristics solidifies the .38 Special's enduring relevance as a top-tier personal defense caliber.

How does the Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) mechanism enhance performance?

The Taurus 856 features a Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) firing system, offering a versatile and secure method of operation. In Double Action mode, a long, heavier trigger pull both cocks the hammer and releases it, firing the round. This provides a natural safety mechanism against accidental discharge and is often preferred for a quick, intuitive first shot in self-defense situations where precision might be secondary to immediate response. The relatively heavy pull ensures deliberate action.

For subsequent shots, or when deliberate precision is desired, the shooter can manually cock the hammer into Single Action mode. In Single Action, the hammer is already cocked, resulting in a much lighter and crisper trigger pull. This significantly aids in achieving greater accuracy for follow-up shots or for focused target practice. This dual-action capability provides users with the best of both worlds: safety and simplicity for defensive encounters, and enhanced accuracy for range work or deliberate engagements.

Unpacking the Advanced Features of the Taurus 856

Beyond its core function, the Taurus 856 incorporates several thoughtful design elements that elevate its performance, comfort, and durability. These features underscore its commitment to being a reliable tool that users can depend on.

Ergonomics and Comfort: The Soft Rubber Grips

One of the most praised features of the Taurus 856 is its soft rubber grip. This often-underestimated component plays a crucial role in overall shootability and user comfort. The ergonomic design ensures a secure and comfortable hold, even for individuals with varying hand sizes. More importantly, the soft rubber material excels at absorbing and dissipating recoil energy, making the .38 Special round, even in its +P configuration, surprisingly manageable. This means less hand fatigue during extended range sessions and better control for rapid follow-up shots in high-stress scenarios. A firm, comfortable grip is fundamental to accuracy and confidence, and the 856 delivers on this front.

Sights for Success: The Removable Serrated Front Blade

The Taurus 856 is equipped with a fixed rear sight and a removable serrated blade front sight. While fixed sights are known for their ruggedness and reliability, the removable front sight is a significant upgrade, offering a degree of customization typically not found on compact revolvers in this price range. The serrations on the front sight reduce glare, ensuring a clear sight picture in various lighting conditions. The ability to remove and potentially replace this sight opens up possibilities for aftermarket upgrades, such as fiber optic or night sights, catering to individual preferences and specific use cases. This thoughtful design element demonstrates Taurus’s understanding of practical user needs.

Durability and Aesthetics: The Matte Stainless Finish

This particular model of the Taurus 856 boasts a sleek Matte Stainless finish on its frame, barrel, and cylinder. Stainless steel is highly valued in firearms for its exceptional resistance to corrosion, rust, and wear. This makes the 856 an ideal choice for everyday carry, where exposure to sweat, humidity, and environmental elements is common. The matte finish not only adds to its rugged durability but also reduces glare, contributing to a discreet profile. This robust construction ensures that the 856 will stand up to the rigors of consistent use and maintain its functional integrity and appearance over time with minimal maintenance.

The Heart of the System: Capacity and Firing Mechanism

With a 6-round capacity, the Taurus 856 offers one more shot than many traditional compact "snub nose" revolvers, providing an extra layer of confidence in defensive situations. While some semi-automatics boast higher capacities, 6 rounds of potent .38 Special ammunition are generally considered sufficient for the vast majority of personal defense encounters. The hammer-fired system is a testament to the revolver's traditional reliability, offering a straightforward and dependable firing solution without the complexities of striker-fired mechanisms or manual safeties that might require additional training to disengage under pressure.

Real-World Applications: Where Does the Taurus 856 Excel?

• Primary Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW): Its compact size, light weight, and snag-free design make it an excellent primary CCW for daily carry. It’s particularly popular for individuals who prefer the absolute reliability and simplicity of a revolver for personal defense.
• Backup or Secondary Firearm: For law enforcement officers, security personnel, or experienced shooters, the 856 serves as an ideal backup firearm, offering deep concealment capabilities when a primary weapon might be too large or conspicuous.
• Home Defense Solution: In a home defense scenario, simplicity and reliability are paramount. The 856 requires minimal training for basic operation and functions reliably without the need to rack a slide or worry about magazine changes in a high-stress situation. Its solid construction means it’s always ready.
• Training and Skill Building: The manageable recoil and DA/SA trigger system make the 856 an excellent platform for learning fundamental shooting skills. Shooters can practice double-action trigger control for defensive scenarios and single-action precision for accuracy work, building a comprehensive skill set.
• For the First-Time Gun Owner: Often recommended for new firearm owners due to its straightforward operation and inherent reliability. There's no complex manual safety to disengage, no slide to rack for loading, and no stovepipes to clear. Just load and fire.

Optimizing Your Taurus 856 Experience: Ammunition and Accessories

Choosing the Right Ammunition:

For training and practice, economical Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds are perfect. Look for standard pressure .38 Special FMJ ammunition. For self-defense, it is highly recommended to use high-quality Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) ammunition specifically designed for personal defense. The Taurus 856’s +P compatibility means you can safely use more powerful defensive loads. Consult with ammunition manufacturers to choose reputable brands known for their terminal performance and reliability. Always test your chosen self-defense ammunition in your specific firearm to ensure reliable feeding and function.

Holsters and Carry Options:

The market offers a wide array of holsters designed for compact revolvers like the Taurus 856. Consider inside-the-waistband (IWB) for deep concealment, outside-the-waistband (OWB) for comfort and easy access, appendix carry (AIWB) for quick draws, or even specialized pocket holsters. Material choices range from Kydex for rigidity and retention to leather for comfort and classic aesthetics. Selecting a holster that matches your lifestyle and carry preferences is crucial for comfortable and secure everyday carry.

Speed Loaders and Speed Strips:

While a revolver is inherently reliable, its one drawback compared to semi-automatics is slower reloading. Speed loaders and speed strips can significantly mitigate this. Speed loaders allow you to quickly insert multiple rounds into the cylinder simultaneously, while speed strips hold rounds in a compact linear fashion for a slightly slower but still efficient reload. Practicing with these accessories can vastly improve your ability to reload under pressure.

Trust and Reliability: The Taurus Legacy

Taurus has built a strong reputation for producing reliable, functional firearms that offer exceptional value. The Taurus 856 continues this legacy, embodying the company's commitment to delivering dependable performance for civilian self-defense needs. When you choose a Taurus 856, you're not just acquiring a firearm; you're investing in a tool designed for consistent function when it matters most, providing confidence and peace of mind. Its durable construction and straightforward design ensure that it will be ready to perform reliably year after year, offering a trustworthy solution for personal protection.

Where to Find Your Taurus 856 Matte Stainless Revolver

For those ready to invest in a dependable and highly effective personal defense firearm, the Taurus 856 Matte Stainless revolver (UPC: 725327620846) is available from reputable firearm retailers. You can find this versatile and robust revolver, along with a wide selection of ammunition and accessories, at DEGuns.com. As a trusted source for firearms and shooting sports equipment, DEGuns provides comprehensive information and support to help you make an informed decision and ensure you're equipped for your personal safety needs.

Taurus 856 Matte Stainless Key Specifications

Feature	Description
Capacity	6 Rounds
Action Type	Double Action / Single Action
Caliber	.38 Spl +P / .38 Spl
Barrel Length	2.00 in.
Overall Length	6.55 in.
Overall Height	4.80 in.
Overall Width	1.41 in.
Weight	22.00 oz
Frame Finish	Matte Stainless
Barrel Finish	Matte Stainless
Cylinder Finish	Matte Stainless
Front Sight	Removable Serrated Blade
Rear Sight	Fixed
Grip	Soft Rubber
Firing System	Hammer
Frame Size	Small
UPC	725327620846