The Taurus 856 is a DA/SA .38 Special +P revolver with a 2-inch barrel and 6-round cylinder. Steel construction throughout, matte black finish on both barrel and cylinder. At 22 oz and 6.55 inches overall, it's a standard snub-nose profile, short enough for pocket or ankle carry, heavy enough to dampen recoil from +P loads. 
 

Key Specifications 

• SKU: 2024901575 
• UPC: 725327937661 
• Brand: Taurus 
• Model Name: 856 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Action Type: Double/Single Action (DA/SA) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.55 inches 
• Weight: 1.4 lbs (22 oz) 
• Sights: Removable Serrated Blade Front / Fixed Rear 
• Finish: Matte Black (Barrel and Cylinder) 
• Condition: New in Box 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The DA/SA mechanism lets you run it double-action for a longer, heavier pull from the holster, or cock the hammer for a lighter single-action pull on aimed shots. The serrated blade front sight is removable, which allows swapping for different heights if needed. 
 
Steel construction at 22 oz is heavier than the aluminum-framed J-frame alternatives, but the extra weight helps manage the recoil of .38 Special +P. Six rounds in a snub-nose package is one more than the typical 5-shot compact revolver. 
 

Usage 

• Concealed carry: the 6.55-inch overall length and 2-inch barrel fit pocket holsters and IWB ankle rigs. 
• Home defense: simple to operate under stress, with no magazine to manage. 
• Backup carry: lightweight enough for ankle carry as a secondary firearm.

The 856 gets solid reviews for its price and reliable DA/SA operation, with a couple of recurring limitations that come with the snub-nose format.

Most owners are happy with reliability. It feeds and fires standard and +P .38 Special without issues. The matte black finish holds up reasonably well. The compact size and 6-round capacity (one more than competing J-frames) are frequently cited positives.

The DA trigger pull gets called out as heavier than preferred by some shooters, though this is standard for snub-nose revolvers and expected. Beginners who are new to DA triggers may find it takes practice to shoot accurately. Accuracy at distance is limited by the 2-inch barrel and fixed rear sight. This is a close-range defensive tool, not a precision target gun. Grip ergonomics divide opinion; some find it comfortable, others want more surface area for control.

The revolver feels excellent in my hands. About fifty rounds in both single and double action ran without any problems.