The Taurus 856 is a double-action revolver chambered in .38 Special +P with a 2-inch barrel and a matte stainless silver finish. It holds 6 rounds and is fitted with custom flag-engraved wood grips and fixed sights. The stainless construction gives it resistance to the elements in a compact snub-nose package. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taurus 
• Model: 856 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Action: Double Action 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Grips: Custom Flag Engraved Wood 
• Color/Finish: Matte Stainless Silver 
• Sights: Fixed 
   

Detailed Features 

• Chambered in .38 Special +P for added velocity from standard +P-rated loads 
• 2-inch barrel in a compact revolver configuration 
• 6-round cylinder 
• Matte stainless silver finish on barrel, cylinder, and frame 
• Custom flag-engraved wood grips as a distinctive visual element

The Taurus 856 in this stainless configuration is a popular carry revolver, and owners frequently point to the 6-round cylinder as a concrete advantage over the 5-shot competitors it faces at a similar price point. The .38 Special +P rating is considered a meaningful plus for defensive use, and the flag-engraved wood grips earn comments as a standout touch on an otherwise practical platform.

The 2-inch barrel keeps the package easy to conceal, though some owners note that the short sight radius makes precision work at distance a real challenge. Fixed sights get occasional criticism from those who prefer an adjustable rear, but most carry-oriented shooters view them as adequate and less prone to snagging.

Taurus quality control is the recurring talking point across owners; many report smooth function from new while a smaller share describe needing to return guns for factory service. The stainless finish holds up well to holster wear, which is a consistent positive across reviews.