The Taurus Model 856 is a compact .38 Special +P revolver with a 2-inch barrel and 6-round capacity. The frame is steel with a Black Cherry finish. Rubber grips provide grip texture during use. Fixed sights support quick target acquisition. Condition: New in Box. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Manufacturer: Taurus 
• Model: 856 
• Type: Revolver 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Finish Color: Black Cherry 
• Frame Material: Steel 
• Grips: Rubber 
• Condition: New in Box 
   

Detailed Features 

The 2-inch barrel keeps the overall package small enough for concealed carry or home storage without sacrificing the 6-round capacity. .38 Special +P generates enough pressure for defensive use while keeping recoil in a range most shooters can manage with the steel frame. Fixed sights work for the close-range defensive role this revolver is sized for. 
 
The textured rubber grips help maintain control during firing, which matters more with snub-nose revolvers where recoil is concentrated in a shorter grip. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

The 856 is sized for daily concealed carry and home defense. The revolver's simple manual of arms (point, pull, fire) is straightforward for people who won't put in regular range time. The Black Cherry finish sets it apart visually from standard matte-black options.

The Taurus 856 in .38 Special +P with Black Cherry finish gets a generally positive reception from users who prioritize value and simplicity in a carry revolver.

The compact size and lightweight steel frame are the most-cited positives for concealed carry. The Black Cherry finish gets consistent praise for its distinctive appearance. Users note it stands out compared to standard revolver finishes and holds up reasonably well with regular handling.

Reliability in self-defense scenarios comes up as a positive. The revolver's basic action mechanism means less to go wrong, and most owners report consistent function. The price point relative to competing revolvers is frequently mentioned favorably.

On the critical side, trigger pull gets mixed feedback. Double-action pull is described as heavy by some owners, which can affect accuracy during timed shooting. Questions about finish durability over long-term carry surface occasionally. Six rounds is enough for most defensive use cases, but some users note it as a limitation compared to semi-auto pistols. Factory sights get criticism from users doing any precision work beyond close-range defensive distance. Customer service experiences with Taurus are split, with some owners reporting smooth warranty handling and others describing difficulty getting support.