Taurus 856 Ultra Lite .38 Special 2" Revolver

The Taurus 856 Ultra Lite 38sp Blk 2" 6sh is a compact, lightweight revolver engineered for concealed carry, backup duty, and personal defense. Built for law enforcement professionals, armed civilians, and off-duty officers who prioritize portability without sacrificing stopping power, this double-action/single-action revolver delivers reliability in a platform that weighs just 1.55 pounds. The 2-inch barrel balances accuracy at defensive distances with minimal printing in ankle, pocket, or appendix carry positions.

The 856 Ultra Lite features a six-round cylinder chambered in .38 Special, one of the most proven defense cartridges in professional and civilian use for decades. Its SA/DA operating system allows shooters to transition between single-action precision and double-action speed—critical for tactical flexibility in high-stress scenarios. The aluminum frame construction achieves the Ultra Lite designation while maintaining the durability required for duty carry, and the black finish resists corrosion during extended storage or field use. The 2-inch barrel provides sufficient velocity for standard and +P ammunition, while the compact profile ensures rapid target acquisition and weapon transitions in close-quarters defensive encounters.

This revolver is ideal for plainclothes detectives, undercover operatives, and permit holders seeking a reliable pocket or ankle backup gun. The six-shot capacity provides adequate rounds for most civilian defense scenarios, and .38 Special ammunition remains widely available and affordable for training and qualification. The compact frame fits standard small-frame revolver holsters and IWB carriers, making integration into existing gear simple. Law enforcement training with DA/SA revolvers transfers directly to this platform, ensuring minimal relearning curve for experienced officers transitioning from full-size duty weapons.