Taurus 850 .38 Special 3″ Stainless 5-Rd Revolver

The Taurus 850 .38 Special 3″ Stainless 5-Rd Revolver hits the sweet spot for anyone who wants a no-nonsense snubby that’s built to carry. This is a compact, small-frame wheelgun chambered in .38 Special, with a 3-inch stainless barrel and a 5-shot cylinder. It’s a double-action-only piece with a shrouded hammer—meaning no snagging on the draw—and a black rubber grip that locks into your hand. Finished in matte stainless, it’s ready for everyday concealed carry or general-purpose use right out of the box.

Manufacturer	Taurus
Model	850
Material	Stainless steel frame and barrel
Compatibility	.38 Special ammunition (5 rounds)
Finish	Matte stainless
Weight	Approximately 22 oz (empty, per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• 3″ Stainless Steel Barrel – Why it matters: The extra inch over a standard 2″ snubby gives you a longer sight radius for better accuracy without adding bulk that prints under a cover garment.
• Shrouded/Concealed Hammer – Why it matters: This DAO design means no hammer spur to catch on your shirt or holster during a fast draw, making it ideal for pocket or IWB carry.
• 5-Shot Cylinder in .38 Special – Why it matters: You get a proven defensive round with manageable recoil, and the 5-round capacity keeps the cylinder profile slim for concealment.
• Black Rubber Grip – Why it matters: The soft rubber absorbs recoil and gives you a secure hold even with sweaty hands, so you stay on target for follow-up shots.
• Serrated Blade Front Sight with Fixed Rear – Why it matters: The serrated front reduces glare and gives you a sharp sight picture, while the fixed rear keeps the setup simple and snag-free for defensive use.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who appreciates a classic snub-nose platform with modern stainless durability. It’s also for the concealed carrier who wants a reliable back-up or primary that doesn’t require a manual safety or decocker. If you’re a gun show regular who values a solid, no-frills wheelgun that’s ready to shoot, the Taurus 850 belongs in your rotation.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Matte stainless finish resists rust and holster wear better than blued steel.
• Pro: DAO trigger pull is consistent every time—no switching between single and double action under stress.
• Con: The fixed rear sight is not adjustable, so you’ll need to regulate your ammo choice to the factory zero.
• Pro: At under $400, it’s an affordable entry into a stainless revolver without sacrificing build quality.
• Con: The rubber grip can snag on some pocket holsters; consider a smooth aftermarket grip if you pocket carry.

Comparison: Taurus 850 vs. S&W 642 vs. Ruger LCR

Feature	Taurus 850	S&W 642	Ruger LCR
Barrel Length	3″	1.875″	1.875″
Capacity	5 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Action	DAO (shrouded hammer)	DAO (enclosed hammer)	DAO (enclosed hammer)
Weight (empty)	~22 oz	~15 oz	~13.5 oz
Finish	Matte stainless	Matte stainless	Matte black or stainless
MSRP	$374.54	~$470	~$580

FAQ

Is the Taurus 850 rated for +P ammunition?

According to Taurus specs, the 850 is built on a small frame that can handle limited +P .38 Special loads. For regular practice, stick with standard-pressure .38 Special to extend the life of the cylinder and barrel. Use +P sparingly for carry ammo.

Can I install aftermarket grips on this revolver?

Yes, the Taurus 850 uses a standard small-frame grip pattern that is compatible with many aftermarket options from Hogue, Pachmayr, and others. The factory rubber grip is comfortable, but you can swap it out for wood or synthetic grips if you prefer a different feel or profile.

Does this revolver come with a lock or safety?

The Taurus 850 does not have an external manual safety. It is a double-action-only revolver with a heavy, consistent trigger pull that acts as the primary safety. Some models include the Taurus Security System (a key-locking mechanism on the frame), but this version does not include it per current production specs.

What holsters fit the Taurus 850?

Holsters designed for a 3″ barrel K-frame or J-frame revolver often fit the Taurus 850, but check the specific model. Many manufacturers like DeSantis, Galco, and Alien Gear offer options for the Taurus 85/850 series. A custom leather or kydex holster molded for the 850 is ideal for a secure fit.

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Last updated: April 2026