Taurus Defender 856
Taurus · Pistol · In Production · 2022
Also known as: Defender 856, Model 856 Defender
Overview
The Taurus Defender 856 is a medium-frame revolver chambered in .38 Special +P, manufactured by Taurus since 2022. The 6-round cylinder provides an extra round compared to revolvers of this size class, a meaningful advantage in defensive situations. The 3.0-inch barrel balances portability with adequate sight radius for accurate shot placement.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 624 g (22.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 190 mm (7.48") |
| Barrel Length | 76 mm (2.99") |
| 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 | 354 J (261 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 30 m (33 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 900 m (984 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Tungsten Cerakote |
Calibers
- .38 Special +P · primary — also known as .38 Spl +P
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Revolving Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar, Taurus Security System
- Features: Tritium Night Sight, Altamont Grips, 3 Inch Barrel, 6 Shot Cylinder, Swing Out Cylinder, Transfer Bar Safety, Fixed Sights, Exposed Hammer
Base model
Production
Production years: 2022-present
Origin
Country of origin: Brazil
Notes
The 3-inch barrel provides approximately 50-75 fps more velocity than 2-inch models, improving terminal ballistics. The 6-round capacity gives it one more shot than traditional 5-shot .38 Special revolvers.
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.