The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a .38 Special single/double action revolver with a 2-inch barrel and stainless steel finish. It holds 6 rounds and weighs 16 oz (1 lb). Overall length is 6.55 inches. Sights are serrated ramp front with fixed rear. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Caliber: .38 SPL 
• Action: Single/Double Action 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Weight: 16 oz (1 lb) 
• Finish: Stainless Steel 
• Overall Length: 6.55 inches 
• Sights: Serrated ramp front, fixed rear 
   

Features 

At 16 oz this is a genuinely light revolver for its caliber, which makes it practical to carry all day. The stainless finish handles weather and holster wear without the maintenance demands of blued steel. Single/double action gives you the option of a lighter cocked single-action pull or the heavier double-action pull from a ready-to-draw position. The 2-inch barrel and 6.55-inch overall length keep it compact. Fixed rear sights are simple and snag-free.

Owners value the 856 Ultra-Lite primarily for its light carry weight and the reliability inherent to revolver operation. New shooters find the operation straightforward compared to semi-autos. The price point comes up often as a positive.

On the critical side, the trigger pull in double-action mode is heavier than some shooters prefer, which can affect accuracy for those used to lighter triggers. The lightweight build, while good for carry, makes .38 SPL recoil more noticeable than in heavier revolvers. Finish quality concerns appear in some owner reports. The 6-round capacity is seen as adequate for carry but limiting compared to higher-capacity semi-autos. Customer service from Taurus draws mixed feedback.