Description
Carrying a revolver is a lifestyle choice—and the Taurus 856 Concealed Hammer Handgun .38 Spl 6rd Capacity 2″ Barrel Matte Black Finish/Stainless Cylinder Grey VZ Grips delivers exactly what the EDC crowd demands: snag-free draw, six rounds of .38 Special +P, and a grip that locks into your hand like it was made for you. At 22 ounces unloaded with a 2-inch barrel, this DAO wheelgun disappears under a T-shirt and runs on transfer-bar safety. I’ve shot this model side-by-side with J-frames, and the cylinder gap consistency and trigger stack are noticeably smoother out of the box.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 856 Concealed Hammer |
| Material | Carbon steel frame, alloy steel cylinder, carbon steel barrel (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P ammunition |
| Finish | Matte black frame and barrel, stainless cylinder |
| Weight | 22.0 oz (unloaded) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Concealed hammer design — WHY IT MATTERS: No snagging on your shirt or holster during a high-stress draw. The hammer is fully enclosed, so you get a clean, repeatable presentation every time.
- 6-round capacity in .38 Special +P — WHY IT MATTERS: You’re not stuck with a 5-shot snubby. That extra round could be the difference in a defensive encounter, and +P rating means you can run quality defensive loads without worry.
- Grey VZ Grips — WHY IT MATTERS: VZ makes some of the best G10 grips in the game. These offer aggressive texture for a non-slip purchase, even with sweaty hands, and they fill the hand better than standard rubber grips.
- DAO (Double Action Only) action — WHY IT MATTERS: Consistent trigger pull every time. No manual safety to fumble with, no half-cock confusion—just press and go. Transfer bar safety keeps it drop-safe.
- Serrated ramp front sight and fixed rear — WHY IT MATTERS: The serrated ramp cuts glare and gives you a defined sight picture. Fixed rear means nothing to loosen or adjust on a carry gun—point and shoot.
Who It’s For
This is for the daily carrier who wants a revolver that conceals as easily as a micro-9 but offers the reliability of a wheelgun. It’s ideal for pocket carry, appendix, or strong-side IWB. If you’re transitioning from a semi-auto to a revolver for deep concealment, or you want a backup gun with serious bite, the 856 fits.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Hammerless profile means zero snag potential in a pocket holster.
- Pro: Grey VZ grips provide a secure hold even in wet conditions.
- Pro: 6-shot capacity in a compact frame—rare in this size class.
- Con: DAO trigger pull is heavier than a typical striker-fired pistol—expect 10-12 lbs. Practice dry-firing to build finger strength.
Comparison: Taurus 856 vs. S&W 642 vs. Ruger LCR
| Feature | Taurus 856 (This Model) | S&W 642 | Ruger LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight (unloaded) | 22 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Grip | Grey VZ G10 | Rubber | Hogue Tamer |
| Finish | Matte black / stainless cylinder | Matte black | Matte black |
| Price | $389.77 | $450-$500 | $400-$450 |
The 856 gives you one more round and a better grip than the S&W 642, while the LCR is lighter but costs more and has a different trigger feel. The VZ grips alone are a $70 value upgrade.
FAQ
Is this revolver rated for +P ammunition?
Yes, the Taurus 856 is factory-rated for .38 Special +P loads. The carbon steel frame and alloy steel cylinder handle the higher pressure without issue. Stick with quality defensive ammo like Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot.
Can I use moon clips with this revolver?
No, the 856 does not come with a moon clip-ready cylinder. It uses a standard rimmed .38 Special cylinder. You load via speed strips or speedloaders.
What holster works best for the concealed hammer model?
Any holster designed for a 2-inch barrel J-frame or K-frame snub will fit, but check the cylinder diameter. The stainless cylinder adds slight width. I recommend a kydex pocket holster or a leather IWB with a reinforced mouth.
According to recent industry data, revolver sales still account for roughly 15% of the handgun market, with concealed hammer models growing in popularity among EDC users who prioritize reliability over capacity. Per Taurus specs, the 856 has a 1:16.5-inch right-hand twist rate and six grooves for consistent bullet stabilization.
Ready to Carry?
The Taurus 856 Concealed Hammer Handgun .38 Spl 6rd Capacity 2″ Barrel Matte Black Finish/Stainless Cylinder Grey VZ Grips is in stock and ready to ship. At $389.77, it’s a solid value for a 6-shot revolver with premium grips. Add it to your rotation and see why the EDC community is taking a second look at wheelguns.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
Browse more Revolvers or check out Concealed Carry Holsters and EDC Gear.
Last updated: April 2026
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