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Taurus 856
Taurus 856 revolver in .38 Special: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the Taurus 856? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.
| Library ID | GT-149 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
| Type | Revolver |
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Action | Revolver |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches (51 mm) |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year of Production | 1997 |
| Production Status | In production |
| Typical Users | Civilians, law enforcement |
| Rating | 4.3 |
Taurus 856: Technical Specifications
The Taurus 856 is a double-action revolver designed for personal defense and law enforcement use. It typically features a .38 Special caliber, which allows for both standard and +P ammunition, providing versatility in power and recoil.
Key specifications include:
- Barrel Length: 2 inches, promoting compactness for concealed carry.
- Weight: Approximately 25 ounces (unloaded), making it manageable for extended use.
- Material: The frame is constructed from steel, with a matte finish for durability and corrosion resistance. Some models feature an aluminum alloy frame for lighter weight.
- Capacity: 6-round cylinder, allowing for sufficient firepower.
- Sights: Fixed front sight with a rear notch, designed for quick target acquisition.
- Unique Features: The Taurus 856 includes a transfer bar safety system, enhancing safety by preventing accidental discharges. The revolver’s ergonomic grip is designed for comfort and control.
Overall, the Taurus 856 combines reliability, safety, and ease of use, making it a popular choice in its category.
Taurus 856: Performance Characteristics
The Taurus 856 is a compact, double-action revolver chambered for .38 Special, known for its reliability and ease of use.
Accuracy: The 856 features a 2-inch barrel, which offers decent accuracy for close-range engagements, typically effective within 7-15 yards. Its fixed sights are adequate for quick target acquisition.
Reliability: Renowned for its durability, the 856 is designed with a robust frame and a solid lockup, making it highly reliable even under adverse conditions. It is less prone to jams compared to semi-automatics.
Handling: Weighing around 25 ounces, the 856 has a manageable heft that aids in recoil control. Its rubber grips provide a comfortable hold, which is critical for follow-up shots.
Rate of Fire: While slower than semi-automatic pistols, the double-action trigger allows for successive shots without manual cocking, making it user-friendly for quick defensive situations.
Overall, the Taurus 856 excels in reliability and ease of handling, making it a popular choice for personal defense.
Taurus 856: Design Features
The Taurus 856 is a compact revolver designed primarily for self-defense and law enforcement. Its ergonomic features include a comfortable grip, often made from rubber or polymer, which provides a secure hold and minimizes recoil impact. The lightweight frame, typically constructed from aluminum or steel, enhances portability.
Safety mechanisms include a transfer bar system that prevents accidental discharge unless the trigger is fully pulled, along with a manually operated cylinder lock for added security. The revolver also features a shrouded hammer, reducing the risk of snagging during draw.
Aesthetically, the Taurus 856 has a sleek design with a matte finish and rounded edges, contributing to its modern look. The barrel length of 2 inches balances concealability and accuracy. Innovative features may include options for different calibers, such as .38 Special +P, and an adjustable rear sight for better targeting. Overall, the Taurus 856 combines practicality with user-friendly design elements.
Taurus 856: Historical Context
The Taurus 856 is a double-action revolver introduced by the Brazilian firearm manufacturer Taurus in 1990. It is chambered for .38 Special and features a 6-round capacity, designed as a compact, reliable option for law enforcement and civilian use. The development of the 856 followed Taurus's aim to create a robust revolver that would compete with established models like the Smith & Wesson Model 60.
Key milestones include its adoption by various police departments in the United States as a backup weapon due to its ease of use and reliability. The 856 is notable for its stainless steel construction, enhancing durability and corrosion resistance.
While not directly linked to major historical events, the Taurus 856 has become emblematic of the revolver's resurgence in the late 20th century, appealing to those seeking a straightforward and dependable sidearm. Its impact on firearm design is evident in the renewed interest in revolvers for personal defense, influencing subsequent models emphasizing simplicity and reliability in stressful situations.
Taurus 856: User Experience
The Taurus 856 is often praised for its comfortable grip and manageable weight, making it a suitable choice for both new and experienced shooters. Users typically find it easy to handle, with a smooth double-action trigger that enhances accuracy and ease of use. The revolver's six-round capacity is seen as adequate for self-defense situations.
Durability is a highlight, as many owners cite the robust construction and reliability of the 856, noting that it performs well under various conditions. However, some users express concerns about the finish wearing off over time, particularly with frequent use.
Common complaints include issues with the cylinder lock-up and occasional difficulty in extracting spent casings. Some users also mention that the sights could be improved for better visibility. Overall, the Taurus 856 is generally regarded as a solid, dependable revolver with a good balance of comfort and performance, despite a few minor drawbacks.
Taurus 856: Ammunition Information
The Taurus 856 is a popular double-action revolver chambered primarily in .38 Special, making it suitable for self-defense and law enforcement. It can also handle +P (high-pressure) ammunition, which provides increased stopping power without significant changes to the firearm's design. While primarily designed for .38 Special, the Taurus 856 can also accommodate .38 S&W, though this is less common.
Compatible brands include popular manufacturers like Federal, Remington, Winchester, and Hornady, each offering a variety of ammunition types, from full metal jacket (FMJ) for practice to hollow points for self-defense. For optimal performance, many users recommend using +P hollow point ammunition, such as Hornady Critical Defense or Speer Gold Dot, which provide excellent expansion and penetration. Always ensure the ammunition matches the specifications of the firearm and consult the owner's manual for guidance on ammunition types.
Taurus 856: Usage Tips and Best Practices
Taurus 856 Usage Tips and Best Practices:
- Cleaning and Maintenance:
- Clean your revolver after each use. Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the barrel, followed by a patch.
- Wipe down the cylinder and frame with a CLP (cleaner, lubricant, preservative) to prevent rust.
- Inspect the forcing cone and ejector rod for fouling.
- Regularly check the timing and function of the action.
- Shooting Tips:
- Grip the revolver firmly with both hands. Use a high grip to minimize recoil.
- Align your sights properly. Focus on the front sight for better accuracy.
- Practice double-action shooting, as the 856 is often carried in this mode.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Avoid resting your finger on the trigger until ready to shoot.
- Don’t overload the revolver with +P ammunition unless specified.
- Neglecting dry-fire practice can hinder trigger control skills.
Regular practice and adherence to safety protocols ensure the Taurus 856 performs optimally.
Legal Considerations in Colorado
The Taurus 856 is a .38 Special revolver popular among civilians for self-defense. Its legal status varies by jurisdiction. Federally, the Taurus 856 is legal, but states impose specific regulations.
Civilian Use: Most states allow civilian ownership, but restrictions apply in states like California and New York, where additional permits or features may be mandated.
Military Use: Generally, military personnel may use the Taurus 856 if authorized by their branch, but it is not standard issue.
State-by-State Regulations: States such as New Jersey require permits for handgun ownership, while Texas has more lenient laws. States like Massachusetts impose stringent licensing requirements.
Notable Legal Cases: While specific high-profile cases involving the Taurus 856 are rare, revolvers of similar types have been involved in self-defense cases that influence public policy and regulations regarding handguns.
Always check local laws for the most current information.
Taurus 856: Reviews and Ratings
User reviews for the Taurus 856 generally highlight its reliability and solid performance as a revolver. Many users appreciate its consistency in functioning, making it a favored choice for personal defense and concealed carry. Accuracy is often praised, with several reviewers noting that it performs well at various distances, providing confidence for target shooting.
However, some reviews mention concerns about the quality control, with occasional reports of issues such as misfires or mechanical failures. Customer service experiences are mixed; while some users report helpful and responsive support, others express frustration with delays or warranty processes.
Overall satisfaction tends to be high, especially considering the Taurus 856's affordability and ease of use. Users often view it as a great value for a dependable revolver, particularly for those new to firearms or seeking a reliable backup gun. Recurring themes include its practicality, user-friendly design, and the balance between cost and quality.
Taurus 856: Appearances in Media
The Taurus 856, a popular revolver known for its reliability and compact size, has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list of some notable appearances:
Movies:
1. "The Equalizer" (2014) - The Taurus 856 is used by some characters in this action film starring Denzel Washington.
2. "The Way of the Gun" (2000) - The revolver is featured in this crime thriller.
TV Shows:
1. "Breaking Bad" - The Taurus 856 is seen in the hands of various characters throughout the series.
2. "The Blacklist" - The gun makes appearances in this popular crime thriller series.
Video Games:
1. "Max Payne 3" - The Taurus 856 is included as a weapon in this third installment of the Max Payne series.
2. "Grand Theft Auto V" - The revolver is featured in the game, reflecting its use in various contexts.
These appearances showcase the Taurus 856's popularity and recognition as a reliable firearm in various media.
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