This review examines the Taurus 856 .38 Special Revolver. The cylinder does seem a lot wider when you have the gun. The internal mechanics of the gun may have an accumulation of dirt. I have talked about the six most common problems that users face. The Taurus Defender 856 was conceived to combat those tendencies. DanPierceOutdoorShop.com Buy. The small frame .38 Special has been a staple of armed citizens, cops and private dicks for more than seventy years. The 856 line is derived from the Taurus Model 85. However, despite its many improvements, the 856 still suffers from a number of common problems. The Taurus 3" 856 looks kind of nifty though. Height: 4.8 Prepared for the Worst, Providing the Best. This user feedback backs what I am saying here. However, I have the same problem trying emailing other gun manufacturers as well. Its best to leave this type of repair to a professional, as it can be difficult to do correctly on your own. And just as (more?) At 855 fps recoil is more noticeable but still controllable. carry revolver. I have since owned several Taurus guns including a PT 1911, PT 25, Thunderbolt, several revolvers and a G2C. Its simple to see how the Taurus Model 856 quickly becomes a favorite model for many individuals looking for a self-defense revolver. Check the cylinder while maintaining a straight barrel. But if it doesnt, you might need to replace both the spring and the stop. However, there have also been instances where the guns cylinder was installed incorrectly. Keep reading to see if the Taurus 856 will suit your needs. The addition of the 6 in the model number signifies the 856 models all have a 6-shot capacity as opposed to . Required fields are marked *. During the range work I used the HKS speedloader. It's sad how many are making it out of the factory that way by so many manufacturers. Revolvers don't normally have problems in the cylinder. 5 shot 2 inch groups at 15 yards. Youll also want to lubricate the cylinder to help get it functioning properly again. Likes, dislikes, general comments? When there is difficulty with the primer, the problem may occur. . I have spent a considerable amount of time working over a potential purchase. How much does Taurus 856 Ultra Lite cost? The Taurus 856 revolvers cylinder occasionally appears to become jammed. This way, you can eliminate most of the problems. covid 19 and all but its now august. I bought a 7 shot Ruger .357 stainless steel revolver right before this lock down started. There are no problems related to Taurus M856 / Submit. Thousands of rounds through it with zero malfunctions. Once clean, apply a light layer of lubricant to all moving parts. One moderator replied to the user that he should clean the lubricate properly. The Taurus 856 Defender is one of those handguns that is light, powerful and accurate enough to go along hiking or camping. Can be used along with the primary sights for nighttime use. The Defender 856 is available for about $350 retail so theres a lot of appeal for those on a budget. The Taurus 856 has a 2-inch or 3-inch barrel. Width: 1.41 It was easy to jam the Taurus 357 I had. Overall Rating * * * * 1/2 In addition, this .38 Special model matches competitors options from Smith & Wesson and Ruger. But do it at your own risk. The Taurus 856 is sized similar to the Smith & Wesson J-Frame. The cylinder stop may get jammed, which may cause it to spin erratically. The cylinder is 1.4 inches wide versus 1.3 inches for the five-shot version. Ive had the same problem with Smiths that Ive had with the Taurus revolvers I have! I carry a Wiley Clapp GP-100 3. Buy, sell, and trade in the classified section. Its one of those things that in theory is possible. I typically shoot .357 hand loads,158gr copper plated lead RN with 14.6 gr of H110. If this makes it onto the CA roster, Ill own one. I have tried for years to get Ruger to make an LC6 polymer-framed 6 shot with a 3 or 4 inch barrel in 38 Special. The guns cylinder and light primer strike problems receive the greatest complaints. Revolvers are lightweight and dependable. The gun also has an optional special laser sight feature. Over time, buildup can occur inside the cylinder, preventing it from moving as smoothly as it should.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'americangunfacts_com-leader-3','ezslot_13',178,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-americangunfacts_com-leader-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'americangunfacts_com-leader-3','ezslot_14',178,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-americangunfacts_com-leader-3-0_1');.leader-3-multi-178{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. The S&W Model 10 was so popular because most folks found that K size frames are a nice balance of size versus power. If you notice that the sights are slightly unaligned, contact the company. If only Ruger would stop being lazy and make the SP101 cylinder large enough to hold 6 chambered in .357 mag. For some reason I like this recent offering from Taurus. Choose the matte stainless option. Known for its easily managed recoil impulse, the .38 Special . Taurus PT-138-Millennium. It sure took Taurus awhile to figure out lots of people want a 3 barrel revolver! The Defender 856 revolver doesn't lock up by a detent under the barrel but rather by a detent on the crane and seems very solid. Reactions Doesnt weigh 35 ounces. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. It's a compact medium-frame, slightly larger than the typical snubnose revolver with a round butt for easier concealment. It performed well for that trip but I like a little more trigger time before I give it full credit. My only complaint is a .357 Magnum whose factory grips are too narrow for my liking: I much prefer a fatter grip to spread out the recoil force onto a larger surface area of your hand. Just the same, there is a need for a slightly larger handgun that may serve well for home defense and concealed carry. Enter the frame tube with a tiny screwdriver. If we compare the Taurus 856 Defender to a four-inch barrel Tracker it isnt as accurate. I own and use several types. I really dont have an argument with most modern handguns. Concealed Hammer Ultra-Lite Viridian Red Laser Grip Defender 856 T.O.R.O. Replace the cylinder stop plunger and the spring. I would take it back also, but here's a lesson check any gun purchase out before you buy. Continue reading to find out more about these Taurus 856 problems. I find this strange, especially for Ruger which seems to have no problem making a million different variations of everything. Reasonable price. In reality, not. Taurus 856. In this section, I will go through the Taurus 856 troubleshooting methods in detail. Perhaps your ammo was what jammed the cylinder. The Taurus Defender 856 was sighted properly for 158-grain bullets striking to the point of aim. It rotated (cycled) MOST of the time but after 30 or 40 dry fires, the cylinder would stay in place for intermittent trigger pulls. 33,535 views May 10, 2018 269 Dislike Share rmt6224 58 subscribers Bought a brand new for 2018 Taurus 856 .38spl revolver. And Yes, it is harder for a beginner to shoot a 2 J frame and hit anything. The Taurus 856 trigger is available in both single and double-action options. This is never going to be a target pistol; without the exposed hammer you won't be tempted to c. If they do walk away. Features & Specifications of Taurus 856 Ultra LiteBarrel Length2Magazine Capacity6 roundsOverall Length6.55Twist Rate1:16.5Rear SightFixedFront SightSerrated RampSafetyTransfer BarDimensions4.8 H; 1.41Weight16.00 ounces (Unloaded)Trigger Pull9.3 lbs. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'americangunfacts_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',186,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-americangunfacts_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'americangunfacts_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_8',186,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-americangunfacts_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0_1');.large-mobile-banner-2-multi-186{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Let me elaborate on the points that are shown in the tables above. You don't have to worry about magazine springs being over-compressed. Cylinder . Additionally, you should remove any dirt that has accumulated inside the revolver as a result of using dirty or smoking cartridges. The GP100 is the most accurate (heaviest), also smooth acting. No, the Taurus 856 does not have an internal lock. That gun was a five-shot snubnose revolver; the "6" in the 856a model introduced in 2018reflects an increase in firepower to six rounds. Reasonable price for a gun that size. The Defender is easily concealed in an inside the waistband holster for concealed carry. Try spinning the cylinder while moving the cylinder release forward if you cant see the primer or the bullet. For about three years, my model 60 3 was both my carry gun and night stand gun. Yes, except for the .22 caliber pistols. (9s and .40s) I have to go 1911 if I want to match the accuracy and controllability with a semi-auto. Ejection is consistent and easy, thanks to the deep plunger. The M76 shoots like a laser beam 11.3gr of Hod Lil'Gun under Hornady 100gr XTP in Starline.32mag brass @1,300fps. COPYRIGHT 2021, THETRUTHABOUTGUNS.COM. He was going over the differences between the M-4 and the non-NFA M-4. Quite often I carry two guns out of long habit from police work. I especially like the full lug on the barrel. But those who are not lucky will face the same problem after switching it back to the single-action mode. Besides the new customers, those who already own an 856 can benefit from this article by applying the solutions. Those rounds just sit in the cylinders at repose. Its happier with 15 grains of powder. Three inches would be my lower limit, but I prefer 4-5 barrels for their superior accuracy. But let me draw a clear picture of the nature of this issue problem so that you can handle it smartly. Here are some of the most common Taurus 856 problems: Contents show 1. -True! "Better QC like Ruger?" As an old [emailprotected]%^, to teach somebody (including females) to use a handgun, a revolver is simplier. Other than that, which is not the revolvers problem Ive never had any of them jam! All Firearms; All Ammunition; All Accessories; Magazines; Hot Items! And their .22 auto pistol seems to be quite popular. The Taurus 856 is a reliable 6-shot, 38 Special revolver that features soft rubber grips-making it comfortable to shoot at the range while the double/single action increases speed and accuracy for follow-up shots. If anyone has one I would like to hear your thoughts and comments thx!!! In most instances, the cylinder will continue to spin when it should have stopped. I know this says little about the gun's inherent accuracy, but it does say a lot about its usable accuracy. The best method to talk to them is via the chat function on their support page, or calling and just waiting for them to answer. Change the hammer spring, plate, and hammer strut. Enjoy your Taurus, and pray you never have to send it for repair. Related Products. The short version is, you dont want to give an overzealous prosecuting attorney any ammunition. Lightweight and easy to carry, that sixth shot might be the one that saves your life. It's light (but not too light), well-built, reliable, reasonably priced, and accurate enough to get the job done. Smoothest shooting is definitely the Model 60, followed by the Model 85 (surprised me). Its primed for customization, reliability, and accuracy while exceptionally dependable. Only a handful of 856 users complained about this particular incident. My Taurus model 85 ultra light had problems out of the box. The Taurus 856 is a J frame, but a six shooter, J-frame is a S&W distinction, no other manufacturer, Sure its a J frame, not just SW owns the J Frame moniker. My Dad has two Taurus revolvers; one full size in .44 and a .32 H&R Magnum snubnose and neither has ever given him any issues and they both seem well made. However, Ive found some problems that you may face using this gun. That's par for the coursethis isn't a gun that's meant to blend into camo or disappear in dark shadows. Taurus 856 revolvers are designed for shooters who demand the very best in a revolver. None of my groups, even at ten yards, are nothing to write home about. The double-action. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A user from the Taurus Armed forum has stated a common problem with the gun. The Ruger Sp101 in 2.25 inch gives a bit more than the 1 7/8-2 inch revolvers. If you are short on time, heres a quick rundown of the Taurus 856 pros and cons. 5 Taurus 605 Poly Problems You Should Know, Top 5 Problems of Ruger 77/357 You Should Know About, 6 Rock Island 22TCM Problems You Should Know, 6 Ruger Wrangler Problems You Probably Didnt Know Before, Front Serrated Blade Rear Fixed Optional Laser. They cost twice as much. The big advantage of the Taurus Defender 856 over most revolvers is a high visibility front night sight. I dont think so because it is a handy revolver that doesnt make you break the bank. Always wanted a Charter Arms Undercover .38. Appears that TAURUS has re discovered that fact. Based on the company's small-frame 2" barreled Model 85. That is why users dont feel comfortable shooting the revolver. The Taurus 856 model is a lightweight, easy-to-conceal handgun. Would be good for a bedside gun or for camping or hiking. The most common culprit is a faulty lock spring. Dont try this at home, Im what you might call a. 97 . I have three of the Taurus 856s. The Taurus 856 weighs 22 ounces unloaded. A leadshaver is fine with .22 but you definitely don't wanna shoot that gun as it sits. Concealed carry, home defense and outdoors are its use case and given its very reasonable price, its an excellent all-around option. The most common Taurus 856 problems include ceasing cylinder, cocked front sight, light primer strikes, jammed cylinder stop, thumb press jamming, and poor durability. It will withstand exposure to the elements in an ankle holster, at least up to a point. The manufacturer does it intentionally to prevent rust. 38 Special +p that's not a bad weigh with a 6 shot capacity vs a 25 ounce 5 shot Ruger SP101 in .38 Special. Although this model does exhibit some grit and stacking during operation, these elements are not considerable enough to work against it. I do like the 3 ones, but they are a different animal, like you said. Additionally, the barrel is constructed of carbon steel, while the cylinder is made of alloy steel. In a post from The High Road forum, a user has described his experience with the Taurus 856. The nature of these two points is exactly the opposite. This 6.0 oz ultra cotton t-shirt is a staple that would go with almost any outfit. Check out the rest of our shop and find that perfect design. Differences Between Glock 27 vs 26 Which One Should You Pick? However, this sight is comparable to similar styles you will see on competitors models when it comes to compact revolvers. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Cancer, Leo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces While reading other opinions on 856, I found some concerns with short-barreled revolvers in the market. The 856 traces its lineage to the Model 85 introduced in 1997. The entire piece is 6.5 inches long and weighs a mere pound when unloaded. Common Taurus 856 Ultra Lite Problems and Solutions 1. Donald Trump Looks Unstoppable for 2024 According to Poll, Donald Trump Just Made His Biggest Political Mistake Ever. I am the nicest guy on earth, Just ask me. Other details include extended ejector rod and transfer bar safety. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Its trigger is outstanding. The Taurus 85 also generally rekindled an interest in snubby revolvers in general. Its front sight is milled into the gun, while the rear one is narrow and may not be suitable for some avid gun enthusiasts. I'm in the camp to stay away from Taurus. It would be better if you replace them with better third-party sights. The only female in the class spoke up from the back of the room; Oh, youd be surprised. It took a minute before Mark could continue. Virgil Caldwell for TTAG For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Holsters: we're working with Phlster on a City Special designed around the optic mount, which will be available shortly! The most notable difference is going to be the wider cylinder. One of my sons has a model 85 that has the 3 inch barrel. I would get this as an ultralight. It is a very compact and lightweight revolver holding 6 rounds. The overall. When this happens, the cylinder will act as if its jammed. Perfected for everyday carry. How about the new GP-100 that I bought, fired two rounds, then locked up tight. In 2018, Taurus USA decided to shake things up in the concealed-carry revolver market with the release of the steel-frame Model 856. 4 different shooters.