If you carry in the city, you need a revolver that disappears under a jacket and delivers every time the hammer falls. The Taurus 850 .38 SPL 2″ 5-Round Revolver Matte Black is a no-fuss snub-nose built for close-contact defense, with a shrouded hammer that won’t snag on your draw and a double-action-only trigger that keeps each pull the same. Chambered in .38 Special, it runs on affordable, widely available ammo and holds five rounds in a compact cylinder that fits in a pocket holster or an ankle rig. Whether you’re walking to the subway or locking up at night, this wheelgun puts reliability first.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 850 |
| Material | Alloy frame / steel cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P rated |
| Finish | Matte black |
| Weight | 22 oz (empty, per Taurus) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Shrouded Hammer / DAO Trigger — No spur to catch on a shirt or jacket during a fast draw, and the consistent double-action pull means you don’t have to worry about cocking the hammer under stress.
- 2-Inch Barrel — Keeps the overall length short enough for pocket carry or an IWB holster without sacrificing the velocity you need for defensive .38 loads at contact distance.
- Five-Round Cylinder — Enough firepower for a typical urban encounter, and reloads with a speed strip or moon clip are simple under pressure.
- Fixed Sights — No snag points, no adjustments needed — just align the front post in the rear notch and press through the heavy DA stroke.
- Matte Black Finish — Reduces glare and resists holster wear better than polished surfaces, keeping your carry piece looking low-profile.
Who It’s For
Apartment dwellers and city CCW holders who want a revolver that works every time without batteries, safeties, or finicky controls. If you prefer a point-and-shoot platform that fits in a coat pocket or a belly band, this Taurus is your backup or primary — especially if you live in a state with magazine capacity restrictions.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Snag-free profile makes it one of the easiest revolvers to draw from a concealed holster.
- Pro: +P rated, so you can run premium defensive ammo like Hornady Critical Defense without worrying about frame fatigue.
- Pro: Price point under $400 means you can afford a good holster and a few boxes of practice ammo.
- Con: The DAO trigger pull is heavy — around 12 pounds — which can affect accuracy until you train through it. That’s the trade-off for a consistent, snag-free system.
Comparison: Taurus 850 vs. Ruger LCR vs. Smith & Wesson 642
| Feature | Taurus 850 | Ruger LCR | Smith & Wesson 642 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special +P | .38 Special +P | .38 Special +P |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight (empty) | 22 oz | 13.5 oz | 15 oz |
| Trigger Type | DAO / shrouded hammer | DAO / internal hammer | DAO / shrouded hammer |
| Barrel Length | 2” | 1.875” | 1.875” |
| MSRP | $361.65 | ~$529 | ~$489 |
| Best For | Budget-conscious urban carry | Ultra-light pocket carry | Proven track record / brand trust |
The Taurus 850 gives you a heavier frame that tames recoil better than the ultralight LCR or 642, and it costs significantly less. If you don’t mind the extra ounces for better control, this is the smarter buy for apartment dwellers who shoot often.
FAQ
Is the Taurus 850 rated for +P ammunition?
Yes, per Taurus specs the 850 is rated for .38 Special +P loads. That means you can use high-pressure defensive rounds without voiding the warranty. Stick to standard pressure for practice to save money.
Can I carry this revolver in a pocket holster?
Absolutely. The 2-inch barrel and shrouded hammer make it pocket-friendly. Use a dedicated pocket holster that covers the trigger guard and keeps the gun upright for a clean draw.
Does this revolver have a safety?
No external safety. The heavy double-action trigger pull (around 12 lbs) acts as the primary safety. Keep it holstered and you’re good.
What holsters fit the Taurus 850?
Most holsters made for the Smith & Wesson J-frame (like the 642) will fit the Taurus 850 due to similar dimensions. Check the retention before carrying.
Ready to Trust Your Life to a Wheelgun?
The Taurus 850 .38 SPL 2″ 5-Round Revolver Matte Black is a proven choice for urban self-defense. According to a 2023 industry report, revolvers still account for 14% of all handgun sales in the U.S., and snub-noses like this one remain a top pick for concealed carriers who value simplicity over capacity. Order yours today and get a reliable companion for the city streets.
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Browse more options: Revolvers | Concealed Carry | Home Defense
Last updated: April 2026
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