Taurus 856

Taurus · Pistol · In Production · 2016

Also known as: Model 856

Overview

The Taurus 856 is a medium-frame revolver chambered in .38 Special, manufactured by Taurus since 2016. The 6-round cylinder provides an extra round compared to revolvers of this size class, a meaningful advantage in defensive situations.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	624 g (22.0 oz)
Overall Length	168 mm (6.61")
Barrel Length	51 mm (2.01")
Height	117 mm (4.61")
Width	35 mm (1.38")
Firing Mechanism	Double Action Single Action
Trigger Type	Double Action Single Action
Trigger Pull	20 N (4.5 lbf)
Magazine Capacity	6 rounds
Magazine Type	Rotary
Muzzle Velocity	290 m/s (951 fps)
Muzzle Energy	341 J (252 ft·lbf)
Effective Range	25 m (27 yd)
Maximum Range	900 m (984 yd)
Barrel Rifling	Right Hand
Rifling Twist	476 mm (18.74")
Number of Grooves	6
Frame Material	Steel
Barrel Material	Steel
Finish	Matte Black

Calibers

.38 Special · primary — also known as .38 Spl, .38 S&W Special, 9x29mmR
.38 Special +P — also known as .38 Spl +P

Features

Firing modes: Semi Automatic
Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar, Taurus Security System
Features: Fixed Sights, Rubber Grips, Compact Frame, 6 Shot Cylinder, Swing Out Cylinder, Transfer Bar Safety, Exposed Hammer

Variants

Taurus Defender 856 — Defensive

Production

Production years: 2016-present

Origin

Country of origin: Brazil

Notes

The 856 represents a significant improvement over the Model 85 by offering 20% more ammunition capacity (6 rounds vs 5) without substantially increasing the gun's size or weight. The cylinder uses a plunger-and-detent lockup system. Available in eight different models including standard, ultra-lite, and Executive Grade variants with various barrel lengths from 2 to 3 inches.

Background

The 856 revived the classic small-frame .38 Special revolver with an extra round - six shots instead of the traditional five - making it a significant upgrade in the snubnose market.