The Taurus Defender 856 is a DA/SA revolver chambered in .38 Special +P, sized for concealed carry and home defense. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Taurus 
• Model Name: Defender 856 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Action: Double Action/Single Action (DA/SA) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 3 inches 
• Overall Length: 7.5 inches 
• Weight: 1.5 lbs (23.52 oz) 
• Finish: Matte Stainless Steel 
• Grip: Black Hogue Rubber with Finger Grooves 
• Sights: Front: Night with Orange Outline; Rear: Fixed 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar 
   

Features 

The matte stainless finish resists corrosion. Night sights on the front with an orange outline help in low-light conditions, paired with a fixed rear sight. The Hogue rubber grip has finger grooves that give a consistent hand position during use. The transfer bar safety prevents discharge unless the trigger is fully depressed. 
 
DA/SA operation lets the shooter choose: a longer, heavier pull in DA mode, or a shorter, lighter pull in SA after manually cocking the hammer. 
 

Usage 

At 1.5 lbs. and 7.5 inches overall, it fits well in a holster for daily carry. The 3-inch barrel makes it manageable in tight spaces. The 6-round .38 Special +P capacity is adequate for self-defense, and the revolver is straightforward enough for new shooters to learn on.

Owners of the Taurus Defender 856 in stainless with night sights generally respond positively, with a few consistent criticisms.

The stainless finish gets consistent praise for durability and corrosion resistance. Night sights are well-received — owners find them genuinely useful in low-light situations rather than a marketing checkbox. Recoil with +P ammunition is described as manageable, which helps with follow-up shots.

Trigger feel is the main point of contention. Most find it adequate, but a portion of reviewers feel it could be smoother or lighter, particularly in DA mode. Fit and finish quality control comes up occasionally — some production batches have drawn minor complaints.

The overall picture is a functional, practical revolver for self-defense. Most owners are satisfied with the price-to-performance ratio, and the night sights add meaningful value. The trigger is the most likely candidate for aftermarket work if the stock feel bothers you.