The Taurus 856 is a small-frame revolver chambered in .38 Special +P, built with a 2-inch barrel and a six-round cylinder. This example carries a stainless steel frame with a contrasting black cylinder and wood grips finished with a 1776 theme tied to the 250th Anniversary. It operates in double-action/single-action mode with fixed sights, suited to concealed carry and everyday defensive use. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taurus 
• Model: 856 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Capacity: 6-round 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Frame Finish: Stainless steel with black cylinder 
• Grips: Wood, 1776 pattern 
   

Detailed Features 

• Six-shot cylinder chambered in .38 Special +P allows use of standard or +P pressure loads. 
• Two-inch barrel keeps the revolver compact for pocket or holster carry. 
• Fixed front and rear sights give a simple, snag-free sight picture. 
• Two-tone stainless and black finish pairs with 1776-themed wood grips for a distinct look. 
• Double-action/single-action trigger lets the shooter choose a long first pull or cock the hammer for a lighter single-action press.

Owners who carry the 856 for daily concealment generally find it dependable once the action smooths out with use, though a few report a gritty double-action pull out of the box. The stainless construction holds up well to sweat and holster wear, which carry-focused shooters appreciate.

The short barrel and small grip keep the revolver easy to conceal and comfortable to carry for extended periods, though the size can make it a bit sharp-recoiling with +P ammunition for shooters with smaller hands. Many like the fixed sights for their simplicity, even though they are less adjustable than target sights on larger revolvers.

Value-wise, the 856 line is often seen as an affordable entry into steel-frame carry revolvers. Aftermarket support for grips and sights is decent given Taurus's popularity, though holster options can be more limited than for more common J-frame-sized guns.