The Taurus 856 is a DA/SA .38 Special +P revolver with a 2-inch barrel, matte stainless finish, and a 6-round cylinder. At 1.4 lbs and 6.55 inches overall, it is sized for concealed carry or compact home defense. The transfer bar safety and rubber finger-grooved grip are standard. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taurus 
• Model Name: 856 Stainless Steel 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Action Type: Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.55 inches 
• Weight: 1.4 lbs (22.60 oz) 
• Sights: Front: Ramp | Rear: Fixed 
• Grip Material: Black Finger Grooved Rubber 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar Safety 
• Finish Type: Matte Stainless 
   

Detailed Features 

The stainless steel construction resists corrosion, which matters for a carry revolver exposed to daily sweat and humidity. The transfer bar safety means the revolver cannot fire unless the trigger is fully pressed, which is a practical passive safety for a DA revolver without a manual safety lever. 
 
The 6-round cylinder gives it a one-round advantage over most competing snub-nose revolvers in this class. The rubber finger-grooved grip manages .38 Special +P recoil adequately for most users. 
 
The 2-inch barrel keeps overall length short at the cost of sight radius. Fixed sights are appropriate for the intended close-range defensive use. 
 

Target Audience 

• Concealed carry permit holders wanting a lightweight .38 Special revolver 
• First-time gun owners who prefer the mechanical simplicity of a revolver 
• Home defense users who want a compact, reliable firearm with minimal manual of arms 
   

Usage Scenarios 

• Daily concealed carry 
• Bedside home defense 
• Range practice with standard .38 Special loads

The Taurus 856 Stainless is well-received as a compact carry revolver. The stainless construction, 6-round capacity (one more than most competitors), and low weight get consistent positive mentions. Users who come from other revolver platforms adapt quickly to its operation.

The laser grip version draws additional interest for its quick-acquisition benefit in low-light situations. Build quality is generally considered solid for Taurus's current production standards.

Negative feedback focuses on a heavier-than-preferred trigger pull in DA mode, which affects accuracy for some users. The 2-inch barrel is a tradeoff, good for carry, worse for aiming. Limited aftermarket customization is mentioned occasionally. Some users compare it unfavorably to higher-end snub revolvers in fit and finish, though most acknowledge the price point reflects the difference.