The Taurus 856 snub-nose revolver has earned a reputation as a reliable and affordable personal defense option. This in-depth guide will explore its features, performance, pros and cons, and help you determine if it's the right firearm for you. We'll cover everything from its history and design to common modifications and accessories. Understanding the Taurus 856 snub nose thoroughly is crucial before making a purchase decision.
Understanding the Taurus 856's Design and Features
The Taurus 856 is a small-framed, five-shot revolver chambered in .38 Special. Its defining characteristic is its snub-nose barrel, typically measuring 1.87 inches. This short barrel makes it exceptionally concealable, ideal for those seeking a discreet self-defense weapon. Let's break down its key features:
- Compact Size and Weight: The 856's small size and relatively lightweight design contribute to its ease of concealment and comfortable carry. This is a major factor for many choosing a snub-nose revolver.
- .38 Special Caliber: The .38 Special cartridge offers a good balance between stopping power and manageable recoil, even in a small-framed revolver. A wide variety of ammunition types are available.
- Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) Trigger: The Taurus 856 utilizes a DA/SA trigger mechanism. This allows for both double-action (pulling the trigger directly to cock and fire) and single-action (cocking the hammer manually before firing) modes, offering flexibility in shooting styles.
- Steel Construction: The revolver's construction primarily uses steel, contributing to its durability and reliability. This makes it a robust option for self-defense.
- Simple Mechanism: The revolver's relatively simple mechanical design translates to fewer points of potential failure, enhancing reliability.
Taurus 856: Performance and Handling
The Taurus 856's short barrel naturally impacts its performance. While the .38 Special cartridge has decent stopping power, the short barrel reduces velocity and effective range. This means accuracy decreases at longer distances. However, for close-quarters self-defense, this is less of a concern.
Recoil Management: Because of its small size, the 856's recoil can be more noticeable compared to larger revolvers. Proper grip technique is essential to manage recoil effectively and maintain accuracy.
Accuracy: While not known for exceptional long-range accuracy, the Taurus 856 is perfectly suitable for its intended purpose: close-range self-defense. Practicing with the firearm is crucial to improve accuracy and build confidence.
Taurus 856: Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any firearm, the Taurus 856 has its strengths and weaknesses. A balanced perspective is necessary to make an informed decision.
Advantages:
- Concealability: Its compact size makes it easy to conceal, ideal for everyday carry (EDC).
- Affordability: The Taurus 856 is generally more affordable than many other comparable revolvers.
- Reliability: While individual experiences vary, the Taurus 856 generally has a good reputation for reliability.
- Simplicity: Its simple design means fewer components to malfunction.
- .38 Special Availability: Ammunition is widely available and relatively inexpensive.
Disadvantages:
- Short Barrel: Reduced velocity and accuracy compared to longer-barreled revolvers.
- Recoil: The recoil can be more pronounced due to the small frame.
- Limited Capacity: Five shots is fewer than some other self-defense options.
- Potential for Quality Control Issues: While improved, Taurus has faced criticism regarding quality control in the past. Thorough inspection upon purchase is recommended.
Choosing the Right Ammunition for your Taurus 856
Ammunition selection is crucial for any firearm, and the Taurus 856 is no exception. Consider these factors:
- Self-Defense Rounds: Look for ammunition specifically designed for self-defense, focusing on features like expanding bullets (hollow points) for better stopping power.
- Personal Tolerance: Experiment with different brands and loads to find what you can comfortably shoot and accurately place on target.
- Practice Ammunition: Use affordable practice ammunition for training, reserving self-defense rounds for emergencies.
Maintenance and Care of your Taurus 856
Proper maintenance is critical to the longevity and reliability of your Taurus 856.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your revolver after each shooting session to remove fouling and debris. Use a quality gun cleaning kit and appropriate solvents.
- Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts regularly to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear.
- Storage: Store your firearm unloaded and in a secure location, away from children and unauthorized access.
Conclusion: Is the Taurus 856 Right for You?
The Taurus 856 snub-nose revolver is a viable option for those seeking a reliable and affordable personal defense firearm. Its compact size and manageable recoil make it suitable for concealed carry. However, it's crucial to understand its limitations, particularly regarding its short barrel and limited capacity. Careful consideration of your individual needs and shooting preferences is essential before making a purchase decision. Always practice safe gun handling and seek professional training before carrying any firearm.