Since its introduction, the Taurus Model 85 quickly became a top choice for those looking for a concealed carry and personal protection handgun.

The small-frame, snub-nosed revolver from the Brazilian firearm company is already available in several configurations including blued steel, stainless steel, polymer frame and even an “Ultralite” version that was constructed of aluminum and titanium to reduce weight.

As with other revolvers in the category, the Model 85 would be equipped with exposed, “bobbed” and even shrouded hammers, while there are plenty of cosmetic options from gold-plated hardware to wood or even pearl grips. But if there was one complaint about the Model 85 was that it held a mere five shots—so Taurus International upsized it with the Model 856, which added an additional round in the cylinder. 

The double-action/single-action revolver is chambered for .38 Special and features a short two-inch barrel, which still makes this an ideal option for on-body or off-body carry as well as for home defense. The Model 856 revolver features soft rubber grips, which also make it comfortable for extended target shooting at the range, while the double/single action increases the speed as well as the accuracy for follow up shots. The .38 Special round, which is known for its easily managed recoil, is also available for light target loads to self-defense rounds. 

The Model 856 comes in at a sleek 22.10 ounces, while its overall length is just 6.55-inches and its height is 4.8-inches. This makes it a good choice for CCW holders.

While the 856 was introduced in matte black or matte stainless finish, Taurus has followed up with numerous color options of the 856 Ultralight version including Cobalt Blue, Azure, Bronze, Brunt Orange and Rouge aluminum frames for those who like a little more flare in their DA/SA revolvers. The 856 Ultralight is based on the standard 856 revolver but features an aluminum frame for reduced carry weight (15.7 ounces unloaded). 

Earlier this year, at the 2020 SHOT Show, Taurus also introduced the Defender 856, which took the existing Model 856 and added night sights and a 3-inch barrel for those who think size does in fact matter as the longer barrel delivers increased muzzle and provides more decisive terminal performance. Moreover, unlike most three-inch barrels, the Taurus Defender 856 comes with an extended ejector rod that allows for quick tactical reloads. The Defender 856 also features a pinned Ameriglo Tritium front night sight and special grips from VZ Grips.  

Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer who has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers and websites. He is the author of several books on military headgear including A Gallery of Military Headdress, which is available on Amazon.com. 

Image: Reuters