# Taurus Defender 856: Compact Matte Black .38 Special +P Revolver

**Brand:** Taurus
**Category:** Single/Double Action Revolvers
**Caliber:** .38 Special +P

## Specifications

- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Barrel Length:** 2"
- **Capacity:** 6 rounds
- **Finish:** Matte Black
- **Weight:** 22 oz
- **Overall Length:** 6.55"
- **UPC:** 725327937661
- **SKU:** UCClj86iD

## Description

The Taurus 856 is a DA/SA .38 Special +P revolver with a 2-inch barrel and 6-round cylinder. Steel construction throughout, matte black finish on both barrel and cylinder. At 22 oz and 6.55 inches overall, it's a standard snub-nose profile, short enough for pocket or ankle carry, heavy enough to dampen recoil from +P loads.

### Key Specifications
- **SKU:** 2024901575
- **UPC:** 725327937661
- **Brand:** Taurus
- **Model Name:** 856
- **Caliber:** .38 Special +P
- **Action Type:** Double/Single Action (DA/SA)
- **Capacity:** 6 rounds
- **Barrel Length:** 2 inches
- **Overall Length:** 6.55 inches
- **Weight:** 1.4 lbs (22 oz)
- **Sights:** Removable Serrated Blade Front / Fixed Rear
- **Finish:** Matte Black (Barrel and Cylinder)
- **Condition:** New in Box

### Detailed Features

The DA/SA mechanism lets you run it double-action for a longer, heavier pull from the holster, or cock the hammer for a lighter single-action pull on aimed shots. The serrated blade front sight is removable, which allows swapping for different heights if needed.

Steel construction at 22 oz is heavier than the aluminum-framed J-frame alternatives, but the extra weight helps manage the recoil of .38 Special +P. Six rounds in a snub-nose package is one more than the typical 5-shot compact revolver.

### Usage

- Concealed carry: the 6.55-inch overall length and 2-inch barrel fit pocket holsters and IWB ankle rigs.
- Home defense: simple to operate under stress, with no magazine to manage.
- Backup carry: lightweight enough for ankle carry as a secondary firearm.

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What caliber is the Taurus 856?**

A: The 856 is chambered in .38 Special +P.

**Q: Who makes the 856 revolver?**

A: The 856 is made by Taurus.

**Q: What type of firearm is the Taurus 856?**

A: The 856 is a double/single action revolver with a 2-inch barrel and a 6-round cylinder.

**Q: What is the barrel length of the Taurus 856?**

A: The 856 has a 2-inch barrel.

**Q: How many rounds does the Taurus 856 hold?**

A: It has a 6-round cylinder.

**Q: What finish does the Taurus 856 have?**

A: The 856 has a matte black finish on both the barrel and cylinder.

**Q: Where can I buy the Taurus 856?**

A: Compare current vendor offers on this page.

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

The 856 gets solid reviews for its price and reliable DA/SA operation, with a couple of recurring limitations that come with the snub-nose format.

Most owners are happy with reliability. It feeds and fires standard and +P .38 Special without issues. The matte black finish holds up reasonably well. The compact size and 6-round capacity (one more than competing J-frames) are frequently cited positives.

The DA trigger pull gets called out as heavier than preferred by some shooters, though this is standard for snub-nose revolvers and expected. Beginners who are new to DA triggers may find it takes practice to shoot accurately. Accuracy at distance is limited by the 2-inch barrel and fixed rear sight. This is a close-range defensive tool, not a precision target gun. Grip ergonomics divide opinion; some find it comfortable, others want more surface area for control.

## Pricing

**1 offers available**

| Vendor | Price |
|--------|-------|
| Deguns | $342.99 |

## Reviews

**Average Rating:** 5.0/5 (1 reviews)

> **davey19** (5/5): The revolver feels excellent in my hands. About fifty rounds in both single and double action ran without any problems.

## Similar Products

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*Data from [GunsNation](https://gunsnation.com)*