Taurus 856VL 2″ 6-Round Stainless Revolver .38 Special +P
The Taurus 856VL 2″ 6-round stainless revolver .38 Special +P pairs a compact stainless-steel frame with a Viridian red laser grip for immediate threat engagement. This six-shot small-frame revolver is built for concealed carry and home defense, offering a 2-inch barrel, exposed hammer, and fixed sights. Per Taurus specs, the .38 Special +P chambering gives you proven stopping power in a package that draws and fires fast.
| Manufacturer | Taurus |
|---|---|
| Model | 856VL |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P ammunition; standard .38 Special |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | 22 oz unloaded (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Viridian Red Laser Grip – WHY IT MATTERS: The integrated laser grip activates automatically when you grip the revolver, giving you a visible aiming point without changing your hold. This shaves critical tenths of a second off your first shot under stress.
- 2-Inch Barrel – WHY IT MATTERS: A 2-inch barrel keeps the overall length short for deep concealment in an IWB holster or pocket carry, while still delivering adequate velocity with .38 Special +P loads.
- Six-Round Cylinder – WHY IT MATTERS: One more round than traditional five-shot snubbies gives you a meaningful capacity advantage without increasing cylinder width noticeably.
- Double-Action/Single-Action Trigger with Exposed Hammer – WHY IT MATTERS: The DA/SA system lets you shoot heavy double-action pulls for defensive fire or thumb-cock the hammer for a lighter single-action shot when precision matters.
- Fixed Sights – WHY IT MATTERS: No snag-prone adjustable sights means this revolver clears leather clean every time, and the fixed rear notch is wide enough for fast flash sight pictures.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the concealed carrier who wants point-and-shoot simplicity with a laser aiming aid. It’s also a strong choice for new shooters who prefer revolver reliability over semi-auto complexity, and for anyone who wants .38 Special +P power in a package that fits a front pocket or ankle holster.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Viridian laser grip is intuitive and activates on draw – no switches to fumble.
- Pro: Six-round capacity beats five-shot J-frame competitors.
- Pro: Stainless steel construction resists rust and holds up to daily carry sweat.
- Con: The 2-inch barrel limits sight radius and muzzle velocity compared to 3-inch or 4-inch revolvers – you trade some ballistics for concealability.
Comparison: Taurus 856VL vs. Smith & Wesson Model 642 vs. Ruger LCR .38
| Feature | Taurus 856VL | Smith & Wesson Model 642 | Ruger LCR .38 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Laser | Viridian red laser grip (integrated) | None (aftermarket only) | None (aftermarket only) |
| Weight (unloaded) | 22 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Barrel Length | 2″ | 1.875″ | 1.875″ |
| Trigger | DA/SA exposed hammer | DAO (concealed hammer) | DAO (concealed hammer) |
| MSRP | $426.12 | ~$470 | ~$420 |
Data from manufacturer specs and current market pricing as of April 2026.
FAQ
Can I use +P ammunition in the Taurus 856VL?
Yes. The Taurus 856VL is rated for .38 Special +P loads per the manufacturer specs. Standard .38 Special is also fine. +P gives you higher velocity and expansion, but expect slightly more recoil and muzzle flip.
Is the Viridian laser grip adjustable?
Yes. The Viridian laser grip includes windage and elevation adjustments using a small hex key. You can zero the laser at your preferred distance – 7 to 10 yards is standard for defensive use.
Does this revolver fit standard Taurus 856 holsters?
Yes. The 856VL has the same frame dimensions as the standard Taurus 856. Most holsters molded for the 856 will work, though you should confirm the laser grip doesn’t interfere with the holster’s retention or trigger guard coverage.
What is the trigger pull weight?
Per Taurus specs, the double-action trigger pull is approximately 12 pounds. The single-action pull, when the hammer is manually cocked, is around 4.5 pounds.
Why Carry the Taurus 856VL?
Over 60% of defensive gun uses occur within 7 yards, and the Taurus 856VL’s laser grip and six-round capacity are optimized for that distance. You get a proven .38 Special +P chambering, stainless durability, and a laser that turns on when you need it – all for under $430 shipped.
✓ Nationwide delivery – ships to all 50 states
✓ Ships 1-2 business days from order confirmation
✓ 30-day returns – no restocking fee on unused items
✓ Secure checkout – encrypted payment processing
Last updated: April 2026
Browse more in our Revolvers category or check out Concealed Carry Handguns.
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