Description
There's a reason snub nose revolvers never went out of style, and the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite makes a strong case for keeping one in your rotation. This version pairs a matte stainless finish with an aluminum alloy frame, bringing the whole gun in around 15.7 ounces. That's light enough for all-day carry in a pocket holster or on the waistband without the constant tug you get from an all-steel wheelgun. And unlike most small frames in this class, you get six rounds of .38 Special instead of five, with the cylinder rated to handle +P defensive loads when you want a little more punch.
What Sets This 856 Ultra-Lite Apart
The standout on this model is the VZ Cyclone grip. If you've handled VZ's G10 grips before, you know the deal: a dense layered composite with aggressive texturing that locks into your hand and shrugs off sweat, rain, and rough treatment. On a lightweight snubby, that traction matters, because a 16 ounce revolver moves around more under recoil than a heavier gun. The Cyclone texture keeps the gun planted so your follow-up shots come faster. It also gives the stainless 856 a sharp two-tone look that stands out from the usual rubber boot grip crowd.
Taurus 856 Function Where It Counts
The double action/single action setup is a big part of what makes the 856 practical. Carry it with a long, deliberate double action pull for peace of mind, or thumb the exposed hammer back for a crisp single action break when you have time to make a precise shot. The serrated ramp front sight and fixed rear notch are snag-free and simple, exactly what you want on a gun that may need to clear a pocket or holster in a hurry. At 6.55 inches overall with a 2 inch barrel, it hides easily under just about anything.
For a nightstand gun, a backup, or a primary carry piece for someone who trusts a revolver's simplicity, this 856 Ultra-Lite covers a lot of ground in one compact package.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Taurus
- Model: 856 Ultra-Lite
- MPN: 2-856029ULVZ06
- UPC: 725327932147
- Caliber: .38 Special (+P rated)
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
- Action: Double Action / Single Action
- Barrel Length: 2 inches
- Overall Length: 6.55 inches
- Weight: 15.7 oz
- Frame Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Finish: Matte Stainless
- Grips: VZ Cyclone
- Front Sight: Serrated Ramp
- Rear Sight: Fixed Notch
What’s Included
- Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite revolver
- Owner's manual
- Cable lock
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite handle +P ammunition?
Yes, this 856 Ultra-Lite is rated for .38 Special +P loads, so you can run hotter defensive ammo when it counts. Keep in mind that +P out of a 15.7 ounce revolver produces noticeably more recoil, so many owners practice with standard pressure loads and carry +P. The VZ grips help a lot with keeping the gun controllable either way.
How does the Ultra-Lite version differ from the standard Taurus 856?
The main difference is the frame material. The Ultra-Lite uses an aluminum alloy frame that brings the weight down to about 15.7 ounces, while the standard steel-frame 856 runs several ounces heavier. That weight savings makes a real difference for all-day carry, especially in a pocket or ankle holster.
What are VZ Cyclone grips and are they better than rubber?
VZ Cyclone grips are made from G10, a layered fiberglass composite known for durability and aggressive texture. Unlike rubber, G10 won't get tacky, degrade over time, or snag on clothing during the draw, and it grips well even with wet or sweaty hands. Rubber absorbs a bit more recoil, but most people find the added traction and slim profile of G10 worth the trade on a carry gun.
Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite a good choice for concealed carry?
It's one of the better values in the lightweight snub nose category. At under 16 ounces with a 2 inch barrel and a snag-free fixed sight setup, it disappears under light clothing and rides comfortably all day. You also get six rounds in the cylinder where most competing small frames hold five, which is a nice edge in this size class.





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