The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a 6-shot .38 Special +P revolver built around a lightweight aluminum frame with a stainless steel barrel. At 15.7 oz, it carries well and the 2-inch barrel keeps the overall length to 6.5 inches, which works for concealed carry without much bulk. 
 

Key Specifications 

• SKU: 1794005271 
• UPC: 725327932055 
• Brand: Taurus 
• Model Name: 856 Ultra-Lite 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Action: Single/Double Action (SA/DA) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.5 inches 
• Weight: 15.7 oz (1 lbs) 
• Sights: Ramp Front & Fixed Rear 
• Grip Type: Finger Grooved Black Rubber 
• Trigger Type: Standard 
• Finish Material: Matte Stainless Steel 
• Condition: New in Box 
   

Features 

The aluminum frame keeps weight down while the stainless barrel handles the pressure of +P loads. Ramp front and fixed rear sights are simple and fast to pick up at defensive distances. The finger-grooved rubber grip improves control during firing and fits most hand sizes. 
 
DA/SA action means you can fire without cocking the hammer for quick defensive use, or thumb-cock for a lighter single-action pull when the situation allows. Worth noting: lighter revolvers transmit more felt recoil with +P ammunition, so range practice with carry loads matters more here than with a heavier gun.

The 856 Ultra-Lite draws generally positive reactions with a few consistent qualifications.

The light weight is the feature most users highlight. At 15.7 oz it carries comfortably all day, and that's the whole point of the Ultra-Lite designation. People who bought it specifically for EDC tend to be satisfied with that tradeoff.

Recoil is the flip side. Lighter gun plus +P rounds means you'll feel it. Most users acknowledge this but note it's manageable; some find extended range sessions uncomfortable. Practice with your actual carry load is the consistent recommendation.

Reliability gets favorable marks. The simplicity of a revolver — no slide to rack, no magazine to seat — gets mentioned as a plus for defensive use.

Build quality is where opinions split. Most owners report solid fit and finish, but a minority has run into issues with specific components or quality control inconsistencies. Taurus's customer service track record also generates mixed comments, with some users reporting good warranty support and others finding it frustrating.

On price, the 856 Ultra-Lite is well-regarded as a budget-accessible entry into the carry revolver market. Most buyers feel they got fair value, especially compared to pricier alternatives from other manufacturers.