Taurus 856 .38 Spl 2″ 6rd Revolver Blue VZ Grip

The Taurus 856 .38 Spl 2″ 6rd Revolver Blue VZ Grip is a compact powerhouse built for shooters who demand six shots in a small frame. This revolver chambers .38 Special, packs a 2-inch barrel, and wears the aggressive Blue VZ Cyclone grips for a locked-in hold. The matte black steel finish on frame, cylinder, and barrel gives it a no-nonsense look that collectors and carriers both appreciate. It’s a double-action/single-action with an exposed hammer and transfer-bar safety—simple, rugged, and ready for the range or the holster.

Manufacturer	Taurus
Model	856 .38 Spl 2″ Revolver
Material	Steel frame, cylinder, and barrel (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.38 Special ammunition
Finish	Matte black steel
Weight	Approximately 22 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• 6-Round Capacity — Why it matters: Most small-frame revolvers stop at five rounds; the 856 gives you one extra shot without increasing grip size, a real edge in defensive scenarios.
• Blue VZ Cyclone Grips — Why it matters: These grips provide aggressive texture that locks your hand in place under recoil, even with sweaty palms, while the blue color adds a custom flair you won’t see on stock revolvers.
• 2-Inch Barrel — Why it matters: Keeps the revolver compact for concealed carry—measuring just 6.5 inches overall length—while still delivering enough velocity for .38 Special defensive loads.
• Double-Action / Single-Action Trigger — Why it matters: You can fire rapidly in double-action for self-defense or take precise single-action shots at the range using the exposed hammer, giving you two guns in one.
• Fixed Sights with Serrated Ramp Front — Why it matters: No moving parts to snag or break; the serrated ramp reduces glare, and the fixed rear keeps your point of aim consistent for close-range work.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who appreciates a classic six-shooter with modern upgrades—specifically the VZ grips—and for the everyday carrier who wants a reliable backup or primary deep-concealment piece. It’s also a solid choice for new shooters who want a simple, manual-of-arms revolver without magazine springs or safeties to fumble with. If you’re a gun show regular who hunts for unique finishes and aftermarket touches, the blue grips make this one stand out in a sea of black rubber.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Six-shot capacity in a compact frame; VZ Cyclone grips offer superior traction; matte black finish hides holster wear; transfer-bar safety prevents accidental discharge if dropped; affordable price point for a steel revolver.
• Cons: The factory trigger pull is heavier than some competitors—expect around 12 lbs double-action out of the box, which may require a spring kit or a gunsmith for a smoother pull.

Comparison: Taurus 856 vs. Smith & Wesson 642 vs. Ruger LCR

Feature	Taurus 856 .38 Spl 2″	Smith & Wesson 642	Ruger LCR .38
Capacity	6 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Weight	22 oz	15 oz	13.5 oz
Frame Material	Steel	Aluminum alloy	Polymer with steel cylinder
Grip	Blue VZ Cyclone (aggressive texture)	Standard rubber (smooth)	Hogue Tamer (molded rubber)
Action	DA/SA with exposed hammer	DAO (concealed hammer)	DAO (internal hammer)
Price	$380.05	~$470	~$520

FAQ

What is the Taurus 856 .38 Spl 2″ 6rd Revolver Blue VZ Grip best used for?

It’s optimized for concealed carry and home defense. The 6-round capacity, compact size, and VZ grips make it a reliable choice for daily carry, while the steel frame soaks up recoil for comfortable range practice.

Can I shoot +P ammunition in the Taurus 856?

Yes, per Taurus specifications, the 856 is rated for +P .38 Special ammunition. Keep in mind that +P loads increase wear over time, but the steel frame handles them well for defensive use.

Are VZ grips replaceable on the Taurus 856?

Absolutely. The VZ Cyclone grips are installed using the standard Taurus 856 grip frame. You can swap them for any aftermarket grip designed for the Taurus 85/856 series, but the blue Cyclone is a standout option for traction and looks.

Does the Taurus 856 have a safety?

It uses a transfer-bar safety system, which prevents the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. There’s no manual safety switch, making it a point-and-shoot design ideal for defensive use.

How does the Taurus 856 compare to the Smith & Wesson 642?

The 856 holds one more round (6 vs. 5), has a heavier steel frame (22 oz vs. 15 oz) for less felt recoil, and includes an exposed hammer for single-action shooting. The 642 is lighter and easier to pocket-carry but has a concealed hammer and a smoother DAO trigger out of the box.

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Last updated: April 2026