When you live in a city, every inch of your carry setup matters. The Taurus 856 .38 Special 3″ 6rd Troy Coyote VZ (TALO) is a compact revolver that doesn’t cut corners on stopping power or grip security. This TALO-exclusive build pairs a tough Troy Coyote Cerakote cylinder with VZ-type grips for a tactile hold that stays planted even in a quick draw. At about 35 ounces unloaded, it’s heavy enough to tame .38 Special recoil but light enough to slip into an IWB holster for daily carry.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 856 |
| Material | Alloy steel frame, stainless steel cylinder with Troy Coyote Cerakote finish |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P ammunition |
| Finish | Troy Coyote Cerakote cylinder, matte black frame |
| Weight | 35 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 3-inch barrel with front night sight — why it matters: In low-light city alleys or parking garages, that tritium front dot lets you align your shot without fumbling for a flashlight.
- Six-shot cylinder in Troy Coyote Cerakote — why it matters: Two extra rounds over a typical snub-nose revolver gives you more capacity for multiple threats, and the Cerakote resists holster wear and sweat corrosion.
- VZ-type textured grips — why it matters: The aggressive texture locks your hand in place during rapid fire, so you don’t lose grip when adrenaline spikes.
- Combat-style hammer and trigger — why it matters: The spurless hammer snag-proofs your draw from concealment, while the smooth trigger pull keeps your shots on target under stress.
- Fixed rear sight — why it matters: No adjustments needed for everyday defensive distances; just point and shoot with confidence.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the urban CCW holder who wants a reliable backup or primary carry piece that doesn’t require a PhD in manual-of-arms. Apartment dwellers will appreciate the .38 Special’s lower risk of over-penetration compared to 9mm or .40 S&W. If you train regularly but don’t want to chase the latest striker-fired trends, the Taurus 856 gives you six solid shots with a manual safety (the heavy DA trigger) that keeps negligent discharges at bay.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Six-shot capacity in a compact frame, front night sight for low-light defense, durable Cerakote finish, comfortable grip texture, affordable price point.
- Cons: The fixed rear sight limits precision at distances beyond 25 yards, and the 35-ounce weight is heavier than some polymer-frame .38 specials.
Comparison vs Competitors
| Feature | Taurus 856 Troy Coyote VZ | Smith & Wesson 642 | Ruger LCR .38 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Barrel length | 3 inches | 1.875 inches | 1.875 inches |
| Weight | 35 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Finish | Troy Coyote Cerakote cylinder, matte frame | Stainless steel | Black anodized aluminum |
| Sights | Front night sight, fixed rear | Fixed front/rear | Ramp front, fixed rear |
| Price | $423.22 | $469 | $429 |
The Taurus 856 gives you two extra rounds and a longer sight radius than both the S&W 642 and Ruger LCR, making it a better choice for defensive shooting at typical self-defense distances. The trade-off is weight: the 856 is over twice as heavy as the LCR, which some carriers might find less comfortable for all-day appendix carry.
FAQ
Is this Taurus 856 +P rated?
Yes, per Taurus specs, the 856 is rated for +P .38 Special ammunition. That means you can load it with defensive hollow points like Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot for maximum stopping power.
Does the Troy Coyote Cerakote finish wear off over time?
Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating that’s more durable than standard bluing. With normal holster wear and cleaning, it should hold up for years. The Coyote brown color is also less prone to visible holster marks than black finishes.
Can I mount a red dot or light on this revolver?
No, the Taurus 856 does not have an accessory rail or optics cut. It’s designed for iron-sight shooting only. If you need a light, consider a handheld flashlight or a revolver with a rail like the Taurus 856 Defender.
What holsters work with the 3-inch barrel?
Most holsters designed for the Taurus 856 with a 3-inch barrel will work. Brands like DeSantis, Galco, and CrossBreed offer IWB, OWB, and pocket holsters for this model. Always confirm the barrel length when ordering.
Ready to Carry?
The Taurus 856 .38 Special 3″ 6rd Troy Coyote VZ (TALO) is in stock and ready to ship. At $423.22, it’s a solid investment in your personal defense without breaking the bank. Add it to your cart now, or check out our other revolvers and concealed carry holsters to complete your setup.
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.