Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite 2″ 6-Round Revolver .38 Special
About this product
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a 15.7-ounce double-action-only revolver chambered in .38 Special with a 2-inch barrel and six-round capacity designed for concealed carry. It features a concealed hammer to prevent snagging and stainless steel construction for durability. This model represents Taurus's commitment to producing reliable, compact defensive firearms at an accessible price point.
What is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite used for?
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is designed for concealed carry and close-range defensive use. Its 15.7-ounce weight and 6.55-inch overall length make it ideal for all-day carry in inside-waistband or pocket holsters, while the double-action-only trigger provides consistent pull weight without external hammer manipulation. The six-round capacity offers one additional round over typical five-shot J-frames, providing marginal tactical advantage in defensive scenarios.
How does the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite compare to the Smith & Wesson 642?
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite offers better capacity but slightly heavier trigger pull than the Smith & Wesson 642. While the S&W 642 weighs 14.4 ounces and carries five rounds, the Taurus provides six rounds at 15.7 ounces with a trigger pull measuring approximately 12 pounds compared to the Smith & Wesson's 10-pound pull. The Smith & Wesson typically demonstrates slightly smoother cylinder rotation, but the Taurus provides better value at nearly $150 less MSRP.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite weighs 15.7 ounces unloaded and measures 6.55 inches in overall length with a 2-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.41 inches, and height from grip bottom to sight top is 4.8 inches, making it comparable in size to the Stevens 334 Rifle in compactness though obviously different in application. These dimensions allow it to fit most compact revolver holsters designed for J-frame equivalents.
Who is this NOT for?
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is not suitable for competition shooting or long-range precision work. The 2-inch barrel limits effective range to approximately 15 yards with standard ammunition, and the double-action-only trigger lacks the crisp break preferred by target shooters. Those requiring higher capacity should consider semi-automatic options like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun for home defense, though in a completely different firearm category.
What's in the box?
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite comes with the revolver, one six-round moon clip, and owner's manual. The package does not include a cable lock or cleaning kit, which are typically additional purchases totaling approximately $25-40. The moon clip allows for faster reloading compared to loose rounds, though practice is required to achieve sub-5-second reload times under stress.
Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite worth it at $348.99?
At $348.99, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite represents solid value for a six-shot concealed carry revolver. It provides reliable function at approximately 60% of the cost of comparable Smith & Wesson models while offering one additional round capacity. The investment is justified for those seeking a no-frills defensive tool, though budget an additional $75-100 for a quality holster and ammunition for function testing.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 15.7 oz - 1.3 oz heavier than S&W 642 but carries 6 rounds instead of 5
- 2-inch barrel provides 750 fps velocity with standard 125gr ammunition
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion better than blued models
- Concealed hammer eliminates snag risk in pocket carry scenarios
Trade-offs
- Double-action-only trigger measures 12 lb pull weight - 2 lb heavier than S&W equivalent
- No front sight customization option - serrated ramp is fixed and non-replaceable
- Rubber grips lack finger grooves - may require aftermarket options for small hands
- Moon clip included but only one provided - additional clips cost $15-20 each
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 725327617518 |
| manufacturer | Taurus |
| manufacturer part number | 2-856029ULCH |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | Silver |
| length | 6.55 |
| model | 856CH |
| package height | 6.2 |
| package width | 2.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | Transfer Bar |
| shipping weight | 1.4 |
| sights | FS: Serrated Ramp / RS: Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
| magazine included | 1 x 6-Round |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with +P .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is rated for +P .38 Special ammunition. The stainless steel construction handles increased pressure up to SAMMI specifications, though expect approximately 15% increased recoil compared to standard pressure rounds. I recommend limiting +P use to defensive scenarios due to accelerated wear.
- Does it fit standard J-frame holsters?
- The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite fits most holsters designed for Smith & Wesson J-frame revolvers. The 1.41-inch cylinder width matches J-frame dimensions, though some leather holsters may require 2-3 weeks of break-in period. I recommend DeSantis or Galco holsters specifically molded for Taurus small-frame revolvers.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Shipping to Montana typically takes 3-5 business days via FedEx Ground after the mandatory 3-day processing period. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who will charge a $25-50 transfer fee upon arrival. Ensure your FFL's license is on file with Ironclad Armory before ordering.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. Ironclad Armory does not accept returns unless the firearm is defective. I recommend handling similar revolvers at local shops before purchase - the grip circumference measures 4.9 inches, which suits medium to large hands best.