The Taurus 850 .38 SPL 3” 5rd Revolver is a compact, double-action-only (DAO) revolver built for concealed carry and personal defense. With a shrouded hammer and 5-round capacity, it delivers reliable close-range stopping power in a package that won’t snag on clothing or print under a cover garment. Chambered in .38 Special, this revolver offers a manageable cartridge with proven defensive ballistics, making it a straightforward choice for everyday carry.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 850 |
| Material | Steel frame, alloy cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 SPL ammunition; standard pressure and +P rated |
| Finish | Matte black |
| Weight | Approximately 22 oz (unloaded) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Shrouded Hammer Design — WHY IT MATTERS: The enclosed hammer prevents snagging on clothing or holsters during a fast draw, keeping your draw stroke clean and reliable under stress.
- Double-Action-Only Trigger — WHY IT MATTERS: A consistent, smooth trigger pull every time eliminates the need to manually cock the hammer, simplifying operation and reducing training time for new shooters.
- 5-Round Cylinder — WHY IT MATTERS: Compact enough for deep concealment while still providing enough capacity for most defensive encounters. Reloads are straightforward with speed strips or moon clips.
- Black Rubber Grip — WHY IT MATTERS: The textured rubber absorbs recoil and stays secure in your hand, even in wet or sweaty conditions, giving you control shot after shot.
- Fixed Front and Rear Sights — WHY IT MATTERS: Simple, snag-free sights that won’t shift or break. The serrated front blade reduces glare and provides a clear sight picture for fast alignment.
Who It’s For
The Taurus 850 is built for the concealed carrier who values simplicity and reliability over capacity. It’s a solid choice for backup duty, pocket carry, or as a nightstand gun for someone who doesn’t want to mess with safeties or slide releases. New shooters will appreciate the intuitive DAO trigger and mild recoil of .38 SPL, while experienced carriers will respect its proven track record in close-range defense.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Snag-free draw, consistent trigger pull, affordable price point, reliable with standard pressure and +P loads, easy to maintain.
- Cons: Limited 5-shot capacity compared to modern semiautos; the DAO trigger pull is heavier (approximately 12 lbs) than a single-action revolver, which can affect accuracy for some shooters.
Comparison
| Feature | Taurus 850 .38 SPL 3” 5rd | Smith & Wesson 642 | Ruger LCR .38 SPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | DAO (shrouded hammer) | DAO (enclosed hammer) | DAO (enclosed hammer) |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight | 22 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Barrel Length | 3” | 1.875” | 1.875” |
| Frame Material | Steel | Aluminum alloy | Polymer/aluminum |
| Price | $361.65 | $469.00 | $529.00 |
FAQ
Is this revolver suitable for pocket carry?
Yes. The Taurus 850’s 3” barrel and 22 oz weight make it manageable in a quality pocket holster, though it’s slightly heavier than ultra-light snub-nose options like the Smith & Wesson 642. The shrouded hammer prevents snagging during the draw, which is critical for pocket carry.
Can I use +P ammunition in the Taurus 850?
Yes, the Taurus 850 is rated for +P .38 Special ammunition per manufacturer specs. This allows you to use higher-pressure defensive loads for improved terminal performance. However, regular practice with standard pressure loads is recommended to reduce wear over time.
What is the trigger pull weight on the Taurus 850?
The double-action-only trigger on the Taurus 850 has a pull weight of approximately 12 pounds. This is typical for DAO revolvers and ensures the gun won’t accidentally discharge when carried. A smooth, consistent trigger press is key to accuracy.
How does this compare to a semiauto for self-defense?
The Taurus 850 trades capacity (5 rounds vs. 10+ in many semiautos) for simplicity and reliability—no safeties to fumble with, no slide to rack, and no magazine to seat. It’s easier to operate under stress and less prone to limp-wristing malfunctions. For deep concealment or backup use, it’s a strong choice.
Trust & Delivery
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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