The Taurus 856 Defender is a 6-round .38 Special +P DA/SA revolver with a 2-inch barrel. At 22 oz with a 6.55-inch overall length, it's compact and suited for concealed carry and home defense. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taurus 
• Model: 856 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Action: Double/Single Action (DA/SA) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.55 inches 
• Weight: 1.4 lbs (22 oz) 
• Sights: Ramp Front / Fixed Rear 
• Grip Material: Walnut 
• Finish: Stainless Steel with Matte Black Accents 
   

Detailed Features 

The 2-inch barrel and 6.55-inch overall length keep the 856 compact for carry. The .38 Special +P rating gives it access to higher-pressure defensive loads. Double-action pull allows immediate firing from the hammer-down position; single-action mode is also available. 
 
The transfer bar safety prevents discharge without a full trigger pull. The Altamont walnut grips provide grip traction and look traditional on the matte black finish. Six-round capacity is one round more than the standard 5-shot snub nose, which is a genuine advantage.

The Taurus 856 Defender generates practical-minded discussions. Reliability comes up consistently and positively for most owners. The revolver action is mechanically straightforward, and most users report dependable function across a range of .38 Special loads.

The compact dimensions are well-regarded for concealed carry and home storage. The 22 oz weight is comfortable for extended carry. The .38 Special +P chambering is noted as a sensible choice for defensive use: manageable recoil, effective performance, and widely available ammunition.

The walnut grips get mixed responses. Some owners like the traditional look and feel; others swap them for synthetic alternatives to improve grip purchase or recoil management.

Trigger pull is the most common criticism. Some users find the DA pull heavy compared to other revolvers, which affects shot placement at distance. This is a fair point, though heavy DA triggers are common in snub-nose revolvers for safety reasons.

Price comes up as a positive: the 856 is an accessible revolver. Taurus customer service experiences are mixed per user reports, which is worth noting. Overall sentiment is positive for buyers who prioritize simplicity and value in a defensive revolver.