The Taurus 856 Ultra Lite is a compact, lightweight revolver chambered in .38 Special +P. At 22 oz it's light enough for all-day carry without feeling flimsy, and the 6-round cylinder gives you more capacity than most snub-nose competitors. The double/single action mechanism works in either mode depending on your preference or the situation. 
 

Key Specifications: 

• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Action: Double Action / Single Action (DA/SA) 
• Overall Length: 6.55 inches 
• Weight: 1.4 lbs (22 oz) 
• Sights: Removable Front & Fixed Rear 
• Grip Material: Turkish Walnut 
• Finish: Matte Black Anodized 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar 
   

Features: 

The alloy frame keeps weight down while the transfer bar safety prevents discharge if the gun is dropped. Turkish Walnut grips add some visual appeal and provide a reasonably secure hold. With a 6.55-inch overall length and 2-inch barrel, it sits comfortably in a pocket holster or IWB rig without printing badly. 
 
The +P rating means you can run standard .38 Special for practice and step up to hotter defensive loads when needed. Recoil is manageable but more noticeable with +P ammunition given the light frame — that's the tradeoff for the weight savings. 
 
Good fit for first-time buyers who want something simple and reliable for home defense or concealed carry, and a reasonable backup option for experienced shooters who don't want to lug a heavier gun.

Most owners of the Taurus 856 Ultra Lite appreciate its light weight and compact dimensions. The 2-inch barrel and 22 oz carry weight get consistent positive mentions from people who prioritize concealed carry. Six rounds in .38 Special +P is generally seen as adequate for personal defense, and the double-action trigger pull is considered manageable by most, though opinions split on whether it's comfortable for extended range sessions.

Common criticisms center on build quality and long-term durability. Some users report occasional misfires or cylinder alignment issues after extended use. Recoil with +P loads gets flagged more often than you'd expect given the caliber, largely because the lightweight frame doesn't absorb much. The sights are also a recurring complaint — the fixed rear and removable front work well enough at close range but leave something to be desired for precision shooting.

Overall, the 856 Ultra Lite sits in a practical middle ground: affordable, light, and reliable enough for carry, but not a gun people buy expecting match-grade performance or decade-long hard use without attention to maintenance.