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856 Ultra-Lite
856 Ultra-Lite 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 856 Ultra-Lite? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.
| Library ID | GT-422 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sierra Designs |
| Type | Revolver |
| Caliber | .38 Special |
| Action | Revolver |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Year of Production | 1996 |
| Production Status | In production |
| Typical Users | Civilians, Law Enforcement |
| Rating | 4.5 |
856 Ultra-Lite: Technical Specifications
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a compact revolver designed for personal defense, known for its lightweight and robust features. It is chambered in .38 Special, accommodating both standard and +P ammunition. The barrel length is 2 inches, optimizing concealability while maintaining accuracy at short ranges.
Weighing approximately 15 ounces, the Ultra-Lite is constructed with an aluminum alloy frame, making it significantly lighter than traditional steel revolvers. The cylinder is made from steel for durability, while the overall design includes a matte finish to reduce glare.
Unique engineering aspects include a transfer bar safety system, enhancing safe carry with a fully loaded cylinder. The revolver features rubber grips for improved handling and comfort, and it has a double-action trigger mechanism for quick follow-up shots. The 856 Ultra-Lite is designed for reliability, ease of use, and effective self-defense in a lightweight package.
856 Ultra-Lite: Performance Characteristics
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a lightweight revolver designed for personal defense. Weighing around 15 ounces, it features an aluminum frame, which enhances portability without sacrificing durability.
Accuracy: With a 2-inch barrel and fixed sights, the 856 Ultra-Lite provides decent accuracy for close-range engagements, typically effective within 7 to 15 yards.
Reliability: Known for its solid construction and simplicity, the revolver is highly reliable. It functions well with .38 Special cartridges, including +P loads, and has a smooth double-action and crisp single-action trigger pull.
Handling: The ergonomic grip allows for comfortable handling, and the lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use. The revolver's balanced weight aids in control during rapid firing.
Rate of Fire: As a revolver, the rate of fire is slower than semi-automatics, but the 6-round cylinder allows for adequate capacity while maintaining compactness.
Overall, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite excels in portability, reliability, and user-friendliness, making it a solid choice for co
856 Ultra-Lite: Design Features
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a compact revolver designed for personal defense, featuring several notable design elements. Weighing only 15 ounces due to its aluminum alloy frame, it enhances portability without sacrificing durability. The ergonomics are user-friendly, with a rubber grip that provides a comfortable and secure hold, accommodating various hand sizes.
Safety mechanisms include a transfer bar system that prevents accidental discharge if the trigger is pulled without the hammer being cocked. The revolver also features a shrouded hammer, reducing the chance of snagging during draw.
Aesthetically, the 856 Ultra-Lite has a sleek, modern look with a matte finish that minimizes glare. Its 6-shot cylinder offers a balance between capacity and size, while the fixed sights are designed for quick target acquisition. Innovative features include a smooth trigger pull and the option for a DA/SA (Double Action/Single Action) firing mode, enhancing versatility for users. Overall, the design combines functionality, safety, and style.
856 Ultra-Lite: Historical Context
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite, introduced in the mid-1990s, is a lightweight revolver designed for personal defense and law enforcement use. It is part of Taurus's 850 series, featuring an aluminum frame that significantly reduces weight compared to traditional steel revolvers. This model typically chambers .38 Special cartridges, accommodating both standard and +P loads.
Key milestones include its adoption by concealed carry enthusiasts due to its balance of size, weight, and stopping power. The Ultra-Lite's design reflects a broader trend towards lightweight firearms, responding to the demand for easily portable weapons.
While not directly involved in major historical events, the 856 Ultra-Lite has been a popular choice among civilians and law enforcement, contributing to conversations about self-defense and firearm accessibility. Its impact lies in promoting the use of lightweight materials in revolver design, influencing subsequent models and manufacturers to prioritize weight reduction without sacrificing reliability.
856 Ultra-Lite: User Experience
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is generally praised for its lightweight design, making it highly comfortable for extended carry. Users appreciate its compact size and smooth grip, which enhance handling and reduce fatigue during prolonged use. The double-action trigger is noted for being smooth, contributing to ease of use, especially for those new to revolvers.
Durability is often highlighted, with many users reporting reliable performance and resilience even after extensive use. The alloy frame significantly reduces weight without compromising strength, making it suitable for everyday carry.
Common complaints include the limited capacity of six rounds and occasional issues with the accuracy at longer ranges. Some users also mention that the fixed sights may not be ideal for precision shooting. Overall, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite garners positive feedback for its balance of comfort, usability, and reliability, though it may not meet the needs of those seeking a high-capacity firearm.
856 Ultra-Lite: Ammunition Information
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a compact revolver chambered primarily in .38 Special, with a lightweight aluminum frame designed for easy carry. It can also accommodate .38 Special +P ammunition, offering enhanced stopping power with minimal recoil. This revolver is compatible with a variety of ammunition brands, including Remington, Federal, Winchester, and Hornady, among others.
For optimal performance, it is recommended to use high-quality defensive ammunition such as Hornady Critical Defense or Speer Gold Dot, which provide reliable expansion and penetration. Additionally, using standard pressure .38 Special rounds for practice can help maintain accuracy without excessive wear. The 856 Ultra-Lite’s design allows for versatility, making it suitable for both personal defense and training applications, ensuring that shooters can choose from a broad range of ammunition types tailored to their needs.
856 Ultra-Lite: Usage Tips and Best Practices
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a reliable revolver ideal for self-defense. Here are some best practices for usage:
Cleaning & Maintenance:
1. Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean the barrel, cylinder, and frame with a bore brush and solvent to remove carbon buildup.
2. Lubrication: Apply light gun oil to moving parts, including the cylinder lock and latch. Avoid over-lubricating.
3. Inspection: Regularly check for wear and tear, especially on the springs and firing pin.
Shooting Tips:
1. Grip: Use a firm grip to control recoil, especially with +P ammunition.
2. Stance: Adopt a stable, balanced shooting stance; a Weaver or Isosceles stance works well.
3. Trigger Control: Practice smooth trigger pulls to improve accuracy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
1. Neglecting Maintenance: Failure to clean can lead to malfunctions.
2. Overlooking Ammo Selection: Use appropriate loads. Avoid using overly powerful ammunition for practice.
3. Improper Grip: A weak grip can affect accuracy and control.
Stay safe and practice regularly!
Legal Considerations in Colorado
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a revolver designed for civilian use, primarily as a compact self-defense firearm. Its legal status varies across the U.S. due to state regulations on handgun ownership. Generally, it is classified as a legal firearm for civilians in most states, but restrictions may apply in places like California and New York, where handguns must be on a state-approved list.
Military use of the 856 Ultra-Lite is limited, as it is not standard-issue for military personnel.
State-by-state regulations can include permit requirements, magazine capacity limits, and restrictions on concealed carry. Notable legal cases involving this model are rare, but as with many firearms, incidents can lead to scrutiny regarding negligent storage or use.
It's essential for buyers to check local laws, as they can significantly affect ownership rights and responsibilities. Always consult legal resources or professionals for up-to-date guidance.
856 Ultra-Lite: Reviews and Ratings
User reviews for the 856 Ultra-Lite firearm generally highlight several recurring themes. Reliability is frequently praised, with many users noting that the revolver performs consistently well, even under various conditions. Accuracy is also a common positive point, with shooters reporting good precision at typical defensive ranges.
However, some users mention a learning curve due to the lightweight design affecting recoil management. Customer service experiences vary; while many report satisfactory interactions, a few note delays or issues in response times.
Overall satisfaction is generally high, with users appreciating the lightweight and compact design, making it suitable for concealed carry. Some reviewers suggest it’s an excellent choice for both new and experienced shooters looking for a dependable revolver. Despite minor complaints regarding grips and some preference for heavier models, the 856 Ultra-Lite is well-regarded in the firearm community.
856 Ultra-Lite: Appearances in Media
The firearm model 856 Ultra-Lite, a lightweight revolver manufactured by Taurus, has appeared in a few films, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list of some notable appearances:
Movies:
1. "The Equalizer" (2014) - The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite can be seen in this action film starring Denzel Washington.
2. "Sicario" (2015) - The revolver is featured among various firearms used by characters in this tense thriller.
TV Shows:
1. "Breaking Bad" - The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is used by characters in various episodes throughout the series.
2. "The Walking Dead" - This revolver is among the firearms seen in the post-apocalyptic world.
Video Games:
1. "Grand Theft Auto V" - The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is represented in the game as a similar model, contributing to the game's extensive weapon arsenal.
These appearances showcase the 856 Ultra-Lite's representation in popular culture, notably in action and crime-related media.
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