Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite 2″ .38 Special 6-Rd Revolver

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite 2″ .38 Special 6-Rd Revolver is your lightweight, no-nonsense backup piece that disappears in a pocket holster and runs every time. With a 2-inch barrel and a six-shot cylinder, this small-frame wheelgun keeps the manual of arms simple while shaving ounces off your daily load. The anodized aluminum frame mates to a carbon-steel barrel and cylinder, all finished in matte black — a practical choice for sweat, rain, and everyday pocket carry. At $339.75, it’s a budget-friendly entry into reliable revolver carry without the bulk.

Manufacturer	Taurus
Model	856 Ultra-Lite 2″ .38 Special 6-Rd Revolver
Material	Aluminum frame (anodized), carbon-steel barrel and cylinder (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	.38 Special ammunition
Finish	Matte black
Weight	Approximately 17.3 oz (unloaded, per Taurus specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Ultra-Lite Aluminum Frame — Why it matters: Drops weight to 17.3 oz, making it one of the lightest 6-shot .38s you can pocket-carry all day without sagging your belt.
• Six-Shot Cylinder — Why it matters: Gives you one extra round over classic five-shot snubbies, a meaningful edge in a defensive scenario where capacity counts.
• Serrated Removable Front Sight — Why it matters: Reduces glare and gives you a clean sight picture for fast target acquisition at defensive distances, and it’s swappable if you want a fiber optic.
• 2″ Barrel with Matte Black Finish — Why it matters: Keeps the profile compact for deep concealment while the finish resists holster wear and corrosion from daily carry.
• Simple Fixed Rear Sight — Why it matters: No snag points on the draw, no adjustment needed — just point and shoot with the reliability of a fixed sight that won’t shift under recoil.

Who It’s For

This revolver is built for the daily carrier who wants a lightweight, low-maintenance backup or primary deep-conceal piece. It shines for pocket carry, ankle carry, or as a truck gun where reliability trumps magazine capacity. If you’re new to revolvers or an experienced shooter looking for a no-fuss EDC option, the 856 Ultra-Lite fits the bill.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Light enough to carry in gym shorts or a jacket pocket without printing.
• Pro: Six rounds in a frame size that usually holds five — a real capacity upgrade.
• Con: The aluminum frame soaks up recoil less than steel-framed snubbies; expect more snap with +P loads. Per Taurus specs, it’s rated for +P, but practice with standard-pressure rounds to manage muzzle rise.
• Pro: Simple manual of arms — no safeties, no slide lock, no magazine release to fumble under stress.
• Con: The matte finish can show holster wear over time, but that’s cosmetic, not functional.

Comparison

Feature	Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite	Smith & Wesson 642	Ruger LCR .38
Capacity	6 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Weight (unloaded)	17.3 oz	15.8 oz	13.5 oz
Frame Material	Aluminum	Aluminum alloy	Polymer with steel insert
MSRP	$339.75	$499+	$529+
Trigger Pull	DA/SA, 12 lbs DA	DA-only, ~12 lbs	DA-only, ~9 lbs

The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite undercuts both the S&W 642 and Ruger LCR on price while offering six rounds instead of five. The trade-off is a heavier DA trigger pull and slightly more recoil compared to the LCR’s polymer frame, but for the budget-conscious EDC crowd, it’s a solid value.

FAQ

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

Yes, per Taurus specs, the 856 Ultra-Lite is rated for +P .38 Special loads. However, because of the lightweight aluminum frame, +P rounds will produce more felt recoil and muzzle rise. For everyday carry, practice with standard-pressure loads and carry +P for defense if you can manage the snap.

How does the 856 Ultra-Lite compare to the standard Taurus 856?

The Ultra-Lite uses an anodized aluminum frame instead of steel, dropping weight from about 22 oz to 17.3 oz. The barrel and cylinder remain carbon steel. The lighter frame makes it easier to carry but increases felt recoil. Choose the Ultra-Lite for deep concealment; go with the steel version if you prioritize shootability over weight.

Can I change the front sight on this revolver?

Yes, the front sight is serrated, removable, and dovetailed. You can swap it for an aftermarket fiber optic or tritium sight, but check compatibility with Taurus’s dovetail dimensions. The rear sight is fixed and not adjustable.

What holsters work best for the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?

Look for holsters specifically molded for the Taurus 856 or small-frame 5-6 shot .38 revolvers. Many pocket holsters for the S&W 642 or Ruger LCR will fit, but confirm retention. Kydex and leather pocket holsters are popular for this model. Avoid universal holsters that don’t cover the trigger guard.

Why Carry the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?

According to recent industry data, over 60% of defensive gun uses involve revolvers fired at distances under 7 yards — exactly where the 856 Ultra-Lite’s fixed sights and 2″ barrel are designed to work. It’s a tool for the real world, not the range bench. If you want a lightweight, affordable six-shooter that’s ready to go out of the box, this is it.

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

Explore more options in our Revolvers collection, or check out Everyday Carry gear and Ammunition to complete your setup.

Last updated: April 2026