The TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite Revolver 2″ Barrel 6-Round is your go-to for discreet urban carry without the bulk. Weighing in at just 17.5 ounces unloaded, this six-shot .38 Special +P revolver uses an aluminum alloy frame and matte stainless finish to shed weight while fighting corrosion. The 2-inch barrel keeps it snag-free, and the VZ Operator II rubber grip locks your hand in place for fast, controlled shots. If you need a revolver that hides under a T-shirt and still delivers six rounds on demand, this is it.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 856 Ultra-Lite |
| Material | Aluminum alloy frame, stainless steel cylinder and barrel (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P ammunition |
| Finish | Matte stainless |
| Weight | 17.5 oz unloaded |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Six-round cylinder — Why it matters: You get one extra round over classic five-shot snubbies, giving you more firepower in a tight spot without adding bulk.
- 2-inch barrel — Why it matters: Keeps the profile compact for deep concealment in an ankle rig or IWB holster, and the short sight radius is fine for self-defense distances under 7 yards.
- Aluminum alloy frame — Why it matters: Shaves nearly 5 ounces off the steel version, so you can carry all day without your belt sagging or your hip aching.
- VZ Operator II rubber grip — Why it matters: The aggressive texture and finger grooves lock your hand in place, reducing muzzle flip during +P loads and keeping you on target for follow-ups.
- Transfer-bar safety — Why it matters: Prevents accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped, giving you peace of mind when carrying condition 1 in an apartment or crowded subway.
Who It’s For
City dwellers who need a revolver that disappears under a light jacket or tucked into a belly band. Apartment owners who want a bedside gun that won’t overpenetrate drywall like a 9mm. CCW holders who prefer the simplicity of a revolver over a semi-auto—no safeties to fumble, no slide to rack, just point and shoot. If you carry in gym shorts or dress pants, the 17.5-ounce weight makes it a no-brainer.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Light enough for pocket carry in a quality holster.
- Pro: Six-round capacity beats the standard five-shot snubnose.
- Pro: Matte stainless finish resists sweat and rain, perfect for humid city summers.
- Con: The alloy frame soaks up less recoil than a steel frame—expect sharper snap with +P loads, so practice with standard-pressure rounds first.
Comparison: TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite vs. Smith & Wesson 642 vs. Ruger LCR
| Feature | TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite | Smith & Wesson 642 | Ruger LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight | 17.5 oz | 14.4 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Caliber | .38 Special +P | .38 Special +P | .38 Special +P |
| Barrel length | 2″ | 1.875″ | 1.875″ |
| Frame material | Aluminum alloy | Aluminum alloy | Polymer with steel insert |
| MSRP | $487.50 | ~$520 | ~$490 |
FAQ
Does the TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite handle +P ammunition?
Yes, it is rated for .38 Special +P loads. The VZ Operator II grip helps manage the extra snap, but the alloy frame will transmit more recoil than a steel revolver. Stick with standard-pressure .38 Special for practice, and carry +P for defense.
Is this revolver safe for concealed carry in an appendix holster?
Absolutely. The transfer-bar safety prevents the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. Combined with a quality holster that covers the trigger guard, it’s drop-safe and holster-safe for AIWB carry.
What holsters fit the TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite with a 2-inch barrel?
Most holsters designed for a 2-inch Taurus 856 will work. Look for options from Vedder, Alien Gear, or CrossBreed. The Ultra-Lite shares the same frame dimensions as the standard 856, so any 856 holster fits. Avoid universal holsters—get one molded for the 856.
How does the weight compare to a steel-frame revolver?
The Ultra-Lite weighs 17.5 oz unloaded, while the standard steel-frame Taurus 856 weighs about 22 oz. That’s a 4.5-ounce savings—noticeable on the belt or in a pocket holster. The trade-off is slightly more felt recoil, but the rubber grip helps.
Ready to carry?
Grab the TAURUS 856 Ultra-Lite Revolver 2″ Barrel 6-Round for $487.50 and get a lightweight, six-shot revolver built for the city grind. Add a box of .38 Special and a holster—you’re set for your daily commute and home defense.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states) | ✓ Ships 1-2 business days | ✓ 30-day returns | ✓ Secure checkout
Browse more options in our Revolvers category or check out Concealed Carry Gear and Home Defense.
Last updated: April 2026
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