The Taurus 856 family of revolvers was first introduced in 2003 as a steel frame six-shot model chambered in .38 Special with a 2” barrel length. It was initially marketed as a self-defense or concealed carry option with six-shot capability versus the five-shot capability of the Taurus Model 85. Apparently, it wasn’t a great seller for Taurus as they phased production of the 856 out in 2006.
In 2018, Taurus re-introduced the 856 revolver family in 38 SPL with the following models:
The standard 856 and the 856 Ultra-Lite versions are available with a full hammer and a bobbed hammer option. The full hammer models are double-action/single-action (DA/SA), while the bobbed hammer models only function in double-action mode.
Taurus has expanded the 856 line to include revolver models in different frame colors, various frame finishes (like Cerakote), models with laser grips, and a few variants with wooden grips.
From a holster perspective, the 856 works well for concealed carry via an inside the waistband holster, OWB holster, or ankle holster. Even though the Model 856 is slightly larger than the Taurus Model 85, it easy to conceal under a shirt or jacket. Note that all our leather holster styles are available in a right hand and left hand configuration.
Without a doubt, inside the waistband gun holster models are the most popular style that we sell for the 856, especially for the 856 Ultra-Lite 2” versions. All of the IWB holster styles that we carry are proudly made in the USA and work well strong side, appendix, or behind the hip.
Our top selling inside the waistband holster models for the 856 2” are these:
While paddle-style holsters do not conceal as well as an inside the waistband holsters, they offer the benefit of being simple to put on and take off the waist.
Our top selling paddle model for the 856 2” models is this one: MTR Custom Paddle Holster
Another popular holster choice for the 2” Model 856 revolver is OWB (outside the waistband) holsters. This style is commonly called a belt holster as well.
Our top selling belt holster models for the 856 2” are these:
Other popular holster styles for the 856 include shoulder holster and pocket holster models.
Here are some commonly asked questions that we regarding holsters for the Taurus 856 revolver:
Yes we do and those concealed carry holster models can be seen here: Taurus Model 856 Defender 3" holsters
The “UL” designation means that you have the 856 Ultra-Lite version. The Ultra-Lite version has the same dimensions as the standard 856, so any holster listed below is made in a version to fit the 2” 856 (standard or Ultra-Lite).
Unfortunately, the 856 has different dimensions than most all the S&W J frame revolvers so the 856 won’t fit in a J frame holster. The 856 cylinder and barrel configuration are larger than the typical Smith Wesson J frame.
Currently, we do not offer any kydex holster options for the 856. All we currently offer is leather holster styles.
Our experience has been that the 856 will not fit in a revolver holster made for the Ruger SP-101. While the Ruger SP-101 is larger than a S&W J frame, the SP101 has different dimensions than the Model 856.