The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a 6-shot .38 Special revolver built on an aluminum frame with a matte black anodized finish. At 15.7 oz and 6.5 inches overall, it is one of the lighter options in the snub-nose category. The 2-inch barrel, rubber finger-grooved grip, ramp front sight, and fixed rear sight are straightforward. The transfer bar safety prevents accidental discharge unless the trigger is fully pulled. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taurus 
• Model Name: 856 Ultra-Lite 
• Caliber: .38 Special 
• Action: Double Action/Single Action 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.5 inches 
• Weight: 15.7 ounces (1.8 lbs) 
• Sights: Front: Ramp | Rear: Fixed 
• Grip: Black Finger Grooved Rubber 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar 
• Finish: Matte Black Anodized Aluminum 
   

Detailed Features 

• Aluminum Frame: The primary reason for the 15.7 oz weight. Lighter than steel-frame snub-noses, though this adds a bit to felt recoil. 
• Transfer Bar Safety: The cylinder will not fire unless the trigger is fully depressed, which makes it appropriate for pocket carry. 
• Six-Shot Cylinder: One more round than most J-frame-sized revolvers. 
• Rubber Grip: The finger grooves help index the hand consistently; the rubber absorbs some recoil. 
   

Target Audience 

Suited for someone who wants a compact revolver for everyday carry and is willing to trade some felt recoil for the weight savings. Also works as a home defense nightstand gun for shooters who prefer revolvers for their simplicity. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

1. Concealed Carry: Light enough to carry in a pocket or IWB holster comfortably. 
2. Home Defense: No manual safety or slide to rack; straightforward to operate under stress. 
3. Range Use: Manageable for practice sessions, though extended shooting with +P loads will be felt.

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite in .38 Special gets a predictable set of reactions from owners.

The weight is the headline selling point. At 15.7 oz it is noticeably lighter than steel-frame alternatives, and owners who carry it all day appreciate the difference. The compact dimensions pair well with pocket holsters.

The 6-round cylinder gets positive mentions as an advantage over J-frame-sized revolvers that hold only 5.

The price is frequently cited favorably. Most owners feel they got reasonable value for what they paid, particularly given Taurus's improvements in quality control over the past several years.

The DA trigger pull gets mixed reviews. Some find it heavy or rough compared to Smith & Wesson revolvers in the same class. This is the most consistent criticism.

Finish durability gets some negative attention. A few owners report the matte black anodizing showing wear or minor corrosion with heavy use or in humid conditions. Proper maintenance mitigates this.

Factory sights are adequate for typical defensive distances but won't satisfy precision shooters. Most owners at this price point accept that.

Taurus customer service experiences range from positive to frustrating, and enough owners mention warranty and repair issues that it is worth noting as a variable.