Description
There's a reason the snub nose .38 never went out of style, and the Taurus 856 makes a strong case for why. Most small-frame revolvers in this class give you five rounds. The 856 gives you six, and it does it without growing into something you can't tuck away comfortably. At 22 ounces with a 2-inch barrel and an overall length of 6.55 inches, it has just enough heft to settle the gun in your hand and take the sting out of recoil, which is something the featherweight snubbies can't claim.
Why the 856 Earns a Spot in the Rotation
The double action pull is long and deliberate, the way a carry revolver should be, while cocking the hammer gives you a crisp single action break for slower, more precise work at the range. The black rubber grips fill the hand nicely and soak up a surprising amount of recoil, so a 50-round practice session doesn't leave your palm buzzing. Up top you get a serrated ramp front sight paired with a fixed rear notch, a simple setup that snaps onto target quickly at defensive distances and has nothing to lose zero or break. A transfer bar safety means the gun only fires when you pull the trigger all the way through.
Stainless Where It Counts
This version wears a matte stainless finish across the barrel, cylinder, and frame, which matters more than looks alone. Carry guns live rough lives, riding against your body through humid summers and sweaty range days, and stainless shrugs off that abuse far better than blued steel. The soft satin sheen also hides holster wear well over the long haul.
Feeding the Taurus 856
Because it's rated for .38 Special +P, you can load it with stouter defensive ammunition and still practice with soft-shooting wadcutters or standard pressure target loads. That flexibility is a big part of the .38's enduring appeal. New revolver owners appreciate how forgiving the round is to learn on, and experienced wheelgun folks appreciate having one more round on tap than the competition offers in the same footprint.
Key Specifications
- Model: 856
- Manufacturer: Taurus
- Manufacturer Part Number: 2-85629-MA
- UPC: 725327937678
- Caliber: .38 Special (+P rated)
- Capacity: 6 rounds
- Action: Double Action / Single Action
- Barrel Length: 2 inches
- Overall Length: 6.55 inches
- Weight: 22 oz
- Frame Size: Small frame steel
- Finish: Matte stainless
- Grips: Black rubber
- Front Sight: Removable serrated ramp
- Rear Sight: Fixed notch
- Safety: Transfer bar
What’s Included
- Taurus 856 revolver
- Cable lock
- Owner's manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Taurus 856 shoot +P ammunition?
Yes, the 856 is rated for .38 Special +P, so you can carry it loaded with stouter defensive rounds. For practice, standard pressure target loads and wadcutters are easier on your hand and your wallet, then you can run a cylinder or two of your carry ammo to stay familiar with it.
How does the 856 compare to a five-shot J-frame revolver?
It occupies the same general footprint as a J-frame snub nose but holds six rounds instead of five thanks to a slightly wider cylinder. The extra ounce or two of steel also helps tame recoil compared to lighter alloy snubbies. Plenty of owners who run both report the 856 holds its own and appreciate the extra round on tap.
Is the Taurus 856 a good choice for concealed carry?
That's exactly what it was built for. The 2-inch barrel, small frame, and snag-free fixed sights make it easy to carry in a holster or bag, and the stainless finish stands up well to sweat and daily wear. The DA/SA trigger gives you a long, deliberate double action pull for carry with a crisp single action option at the range.
Can I swap the grips on this model?
Yes. This version takes the same grips as the rest of the standard 856 line, and there's a healthy aftermarket for the platform. The factory black rubber grips do a nice job absorbing recoil, but if you want something slimmer for deeper concealment or a bit more to hold onto, options are easy to find.





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