Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Revolver 2 in Copper/Black 6rd

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite Revolver 2 in Copper/Black 6rd is your go-to for deep concealment in tight urban spaces. Light enough to forget you’re carrying it, rugged enough to trust your life to it. This six-shot revolver ditches the bulk of steel frames for a copper aluminum alloy build, paired with a matte-black cylinder and barrel for a sharp two-tone look. You get the simplicity of a revolver—point, pull, repeat—with no slide to rack or magazine to fumble. At 22 ounces unloaded (per manufacturer specs), it sits in a pocket holster or appendix rig without printing. The exposed hammer gives you the option of a crisp single-action trigger for precision shots or a heavy double-action pull for safety under stress. Fixed rear sight and a removable front blade keep your sight picture clean. This is a piece of gear that works when you need it, no batteries, no malfunctions, just six rounds of .38 Special on tap.

Manufacturer	Taurus
Model	856 Ultra-Lite
Material	Aluminum alloy frame / Steel cylinder and barrel
Compatibility	.38 Special +P ammunition
Finish	Copper frame / Matte-black cylinder and barrel
Weight	22 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Six-round capacity in a compact frame — Why it matters: you get one more round than the classic five-shot snubnose, giving you a critical edge in a defensive encounter without adding noticeable bulk.
• Aluminum alloy frame with copper finish — Why it matters: the lightweight construction cuts ounces off your daily carry load, and the copper coating resists corrosion from sweat and humidity common in city life.
• Exposed hammer with SA/DA trigger — Why it matters: you can thumb-cock for a light single-action trigger pull at the range or in a controlled situation, or rely on the heavy double-action stroke for safe, deliberate fire under stress.
• Transfer bar safety system — Why it matters: this internal mechanism prevents the gun from firing unless the trigger is fully depressed, so you can carry six rounds with confidence and no manual safety to forget.
• Fixed rear sight and removable front sight — Why it matters: the fixed rear won’t snag on clothing during a draw, and the removable front lets you swap in a high-visibility blade for low-light shooting.

Who It’s For

This revolver is built for the urban CCW holder who wants a no-fuss backup or primary piece. Apartment dwellers who need a bedside gun that won’t over-penetrate drywall with .38 Special loads. New shooters who want a simple manual of arms—no slide, no safety lever, just point and pull. Experienced carriers who appreciate the reliability of a revolver in a pocket holster or ankle rig. Anyone who hates the bulk of a double-stack pistol but refuses to drop below six rounds.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Weighs just 22 ounces—easy to carry all day in a pocket or IWB holster without sagging your belt.
• Pro: Six-shot capacity beats the standard five-round snubnose, giving you a 20% increase in firepower.
• Con: The double-action trigger pull is heavy (around 10-12 pounds), which can affect accuracy for new shooters until they practice the stroke.

Comparison

Feature	Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite	Smith & Wesson 642	Ruger LCR
Capacity	6 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Weight (unloaded)	22 oz	14.3 oz	13.5 oz
Frame Material	Aluminum alloy	Aluminum alloy	Polymer
Trigger Type	SA/DA exposed hammer	DAO enclosed hammer	DAO enclosed hammer
Barrel Length	2 in	1.875 in	1.875 in
Price	$367.67	$469 (street)	$429 (street)

FAQ

Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite rated for +P ammunition?

Yes, according to Taurus specs, the 856 Ultra-Lite is rated for .38 Special +P loads. Running +P will increase recoil but gives you better expansion and velocity from a 2-inch barrel. Standard pressure loads work fine for practice.

How does the copper finish hold up over time?

The copper finish on the frame is a PVD coating—it resists scratches and corrosion well. You’ll see some holster wear at high-contact points after a few hundred draws, but it won’t rust or flake like paint. Wipe it down after carry to maintain the look.

Can I dry fire this revolver without damaging it?

Yes, the Taurus 856 uses a transfer bar system that allows dry firing without risk to the firing pin or frame. Use snap caps if you want to protect the cylinder face, but the gun is designed to handle it.

What holsters fit the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite with a 2-inch barrel?

Standard Taurus 856 holsters with a 2-inch barrel profile work. Many makers also list compatibility with Smith & Wesson J-frame holsters—check the fit. Kydex IWB, leather pocket holsters, and ankle rigs are common options.

Is this revolver legal in all 50 states?

Yes, the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite is a standard revolver with no threaded barrel or magazine capacity restrictions. Check your local laws for carry permits and ammunition restrictions.

Why You’ll Trust This Revolver for Urban Carry

• ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✅ 30-day returns
• ✅ Secure checkout

Last updated: April 2026

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