The Taurus 856 revolver 2″ 6-round Viridian laser grip is a compact, six-shot revolver built on a small steel frame, designed for everyday carry and on-body/off-body use. It features a 2-inch barrel, an exposed spurred hammer, and double-action/single-action operation for a straightforward manual of arms. The grip integrates a Viridian red laser to supplement the included iron sights, which consist of a serrated ramp front and a fixed rear. A transfer bar safety contributes to the revolver’s basic safety architecture.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 856 |
| Material | Steel frame, rubber grip with integrated laser |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P (per manufacturer specs) |
| Finish | Matte stainless steel or blued (per variant) |
| Weight | 22 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Viridian Laser Grip — Why it matters: The integrated red laser gives you a fast, low-light aiming solution without adding bulk or changing your grip; it activates naturally as you hold the revolver.
- Six-Round Cylinder — Why it matters: One more round than most small-frame .38 Special revolvers, giving you an edge in a defensive encounter without increasing frame size.
- 2-Inch Barrel — Why it matters: Keeps the revolver compact enough for deep concealment while still delivering adequate velocity for .38 Special +P loads.
- Exposed Spurred Hammer — Why it matters: Allows single-action precision shots when you have time to thumb-cock, plus double-action for rapid follow-ups.
- Transfer Bar Safety — Why it matters: Prevents accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped, adding a layer of safety for everyday carry.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the concealed carrier who wants a simple, reliable wheelgun with a modern aiming aid. It’s ideal for new shooters who prefer the intuitive manual of arms of a revolver, as well as experienced carriers who want a backup or deep-concealment option. The Viridian laser grip makes it especially useful for those who train in low-light conditions or have difficulty aligning traditional iron sights quickly.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Compact steel frame soaks up recoil; laser grip improves hit probability; six rounds in a small package; straightforward DA/SA trigger.
- Cons: The factory trigger pull is heavier than many modern semi-autos — expect around 12 lbs DA. You may want to practice a few hundred dry fires to smooth it out.
Comparison
| Feature | Taurus 856 Viridian Laser Grip | Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight | Ruger LCR .38 Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight (unloaded) | 22 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Frame Material | Steel | Aluminum alloy | Polymer |
| Laser | Integrated Viridian grip | Not included | Optional aftermarket |
| Price | $413.22 | ~$480 | ~$500 |
Compared to the S&W 642 and Ruger LCR, the Taurus 856 offers an extra round, a steel frame for better recoil management, and an integrated laser grip at a lower price. The trade-off is weight — it’s heavier than both competitors, which can be a consideration for pocket carry.
FAQ
Is the Viridian laser grip adjustable for windage and elevation?
Yes. The Viridian laser on the Taurus 856 grip includes a small adjustment tool (included) for windage and elevation, so you can zero it to your preferred load at 7–10 yards.
Does this revolver shoot .38 Special +P ammunition safely?
Yes. According to Taurus specs, the 856 is rated for +P ammunition. The steel frame and cylinder handle the extra pressure. However, regular practice with +P will accelerate wear on the revolver, so mix in standard-pressure loads for training.
Can I remove the laser grip and install standard grips?
Yes. The Viridian laser grip is a drop-in replacement for the factory grip. You can swap back to standard rubber or wood grips if you prefer. The laser grip uses the same mounting interface as other Taurus small-frame grips.
How do I activate the laser on the Taurus 856?
The laser activates automatically when you grip the revolver firmly — it uses a pressure-sensitive switch in the grip. There is also a manual on/off button on the bottom of the grip. The laser runs on two included CR2032 batteries.
Trust Block
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1–2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Statistic: According to the 2023 National Firearms Survey, revolvers make up approximately 12% of the U.S. handgun market, with compact models like the Taurus 856 leading in carry use.
Related categories: Revolvers | Concealed Carry Handguns | Laser Sights
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.