The Taurus 856, a .38 Special snub-nose revolver, is a popular choice for concealed carry and personal defense. This in-depth review will examine its features, performance, pros, and cons, helping you decide if it's the right firearm for you. We'll cover everything from its history and design to its reliability and accuracy, making this a complete guide to the Taurus 856 .38 Special snub nose.
Understanding the Taurus 856's Design and Features
The Taurus 856 is a small, lightweight, and easily concealable revolver chambered in the potent .38 Special cartridge. Its snub-nose barrel, typically 2 inches, provides excellent close-quarters performance. Key features include:
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Double-Action/Single-Action (DA/SA) Mechanism: This allows for both double-action (pulling the trigger cocks the hammer and fires) and single-action (cocking the hammer manually before firing) shooting modes. DA is ideal for quick draws and self-defense scenarios, while SA offers improved accuracy.
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Small and Lightweight: Its compact size and relatively light weight make it comfortable to carry concealed all day. This is a crucial factor for those who prioritize discreet self-defense.
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Steel Construction: The Taurus 856 is built with a steel frame, ensuring durability and reliability. This robustness contributes to its longevity, even under heavy use.
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Six-Shot Cylinder: The revolver's six-shot cylinder provides a decent capacity for a snub-nose, allowing for multiple shots if needed.
The .38 Special Cartridge: A Powerful Choice
The Taurus 856's use of the .38 Special cartridge is a significant advantage. .38 Special ammunition offers a good balance of stopping power and manageable recoil, making it suitable for personal defense. Numerous ammunition types are available, from standard lead rounds to jacketed hollow points designed for maximum stopping power. The versatility of .38 Special ammunition allows the shooter to tailor their choice to their specific needs and preferences.
Performance and Reliability of the Taurus 856
The Taurus 856's performance is generally considered reliable, although some users have reported occasional issues. These issues are often attributed to poor ammunition choices or a lack of proper maintenance. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain the revolver's performance and reliability.
Accuracy Considerations
The short barrel length of the 856 naturally affects accuracy compared to longer-barreled revolvers. At close range, accuracy is sufficient for self-defense, but at longer distances, accuracy diminishes significantly. This is typical for snub-nose revolvers. Proper sight alignment and trigger control are crucial for maximizing accuracy with this gun.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Taurus 856
Like any firearm, the Taurus 856 has its advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Affordable: The Taurus 856 is generally a more budget-friendly option compared to other snub-nose revolvers.
- Easy to Conceal: Its compact size makes it perfect for concealed carry.
- Reliable (with proper care): With regular cleaning and maintenance, it provides consistent performance.
- Potent Cartridge: The .38 Special offers sufficient stopping power for self-defense.
Cons:
- Recoil: The relatively light weight of the revolver can lead to noticeable recoil, particularly with more powerful .38 Special ammunition.
- Accuracy Limitations: The short barrel affects accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
- Some Reported Reliability Issues: While generally reliable, some users have reported issues, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance.
Choosing the Right Ammunition for your Taurus 856
The choice of ammunition greatly impacts the performance and safety of the Taurus 856. Choosing the right ammunition is paramount, and several factors should be considered:
- Self-Defense Ammunition: For self-defense, jacketed hollow point (JHP) ammunition is often preferred. JHP rounds expand upon impact, increasing their stopping power.
- Practice Ammunition: Full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition is suitable for practice, offering consistent ballistics and lower cost.
- Load Selection: Always check your firearm's manual for recommended ammunition types and grain weights. Using inappropriate ammunition can damage your firearm and lead to malfunctions.
Maintenance and Care for your Taurus 856
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliable performance of any firearm, including the Taurus 856. This includes:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your revolver after each use, removing any residue from the cylinder and barrel.
- Lubrication: Apply a suitable gun lubricant to all moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect the revolver for any signs of wear or damage.
Following these simple maintenance steps will help you keep your Taurus 856 in optimal condition.
Conclusion: Is the Taurus 856 Right for You?
The Taurus 856 .38 Special snub-nose revolver is a viable option for concealed carry and personal defense, particularly for those on a budget. Its compact size, potent cartridge, and generally reliable performance make it an attractive choice. However, potential buyers should be aware of its recoil and accuracy limitations. With proper training, maintenance, and the right ammunition, the Taurus 856 can provide a solid level of personal protection. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.