Taurus 856CH 2″ 6-Rd Concealed Hammer Revolver

The Taurus 856CH 2″ 6-Rd Concealed Hammer Revolver is a snub-nosed .38 Special +P six-shooter built for deep concealment and zero-snag draw. With a 2-inch barrel, a bobbed hammer that won’t bite your palm or catch on clothing, and a double-action-only trigger, this revolver delivers consistent pull every time. At $335.86, it’s a reliable backup or primary carry piece for urban defenders who prioritize simplicity over complexity.

Manufacturer	Taurus (per manufacturer specs)
Model	856CH
Material	Stainless steel cylinder and barrel, alloy frame
Compatibility	.38 Special +P ammunition
Finish	Matte stainless or black (per variant)
Weight	22 ounces (unloaded, per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Concealed Hammer – WHY IT MATTERS: The bobbed hammer eliminates snagging on shirts, jackets, or holsters during a fast draw, making this revolver ideal for appendix or pocket carry in tight urban spaces.
• 6-Round Cylinder – WHY IT MATTERS: Two extra rounds over a typical 5-shot snub give you more capacity without increasing grip size, critical when seconds count in a city confrontation.
• Double-Action Only Trigger – WHY IT MATTERS: Every pull is the same weight (approx. 10-12 lbs), reducing training variables and preventing accidental discharges from a light single-action trigger under stress.
• Serrated Ramp Front Sight – WHY IT MATTERS: The serrated edge cuts glare and provides a sharp reference point for quick sight alignment in low-light alleyways or parking garages.
• Black Rubber Grips – WHY IT MATTERS: The textured rubber absorbs recoil from +P loads and locks your hand in place during rapid fire, even with sweaty palms on a humid subway platform.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the apartment dweller who wants a no-fuss carry piece that works every time without manuals of arms. It’s for the CCW holder who carries in a fanny pack or belly band and needs a gun that won’t snag. It’s for the shooter who trusts wheelguns over semi-autos for reliability in a defensive scenario.

Pros & Cons

Pros: Snag-free concealed hammer, six-round capacity in a compact frame, consistent DAO trigger, affordable price point, +P rated for defensive loads.

Cons: The factory trigger is heavy (around 12 lbs) out of the box, which can affect accuracy for shooters with weaker hand strength. Aftermarket springs can lighten it, but that voids warranty.

Comparison

Feature	Taurus 856CH	Smith & Wesson 642	Ruger LCR 6-Shot
Capacity	6 rounds	5 rounds	6 rounds
Weight (unloaded)	22 oz	15 oz	17.1 oz
Trigger Type	DAO	DAO	DAO
Barrel Length	2″	1.87″	1.87″
Price (approx)	$335	$470	$480
Hammer	Concealed (bobbed)	Enclosed (bobbed)	Enclosed (bobbed)

FAQ

Is the Taurus 856CH rated for +P ammunition?

Yes, per Taurus specs, the 856CH is rated for .38 Special +P loads. This gives you access to higher-velocity defensive hollow points like the Federal HST 130gr +P for better expansion in urban environments.

Can I dry fire this revolver without snap caps?

Taurus recommends using snap caps for extended dry fire practice to protect the firing pin. Occasional dry fire without caps won’t damage the gun, but for regular training, pick up a pack of A-Zoom snap caps.

Does the Taurus 856CH fit standard J-frame holsters?

Most J-frame holsters will work, but the 856CH has a slightly longer cylinder than a 5-shot S&W 642. Test fit before carrying. Brands like DeSantis and Galco offer specific Taurus 856 holsters that guarantee a snug fit.

What is the trigger pull weight on the 856CH?

Out of the box, the DAO trigger averages 10-12 pounds per manufacturer specs. It’s a heavy but consistent pull. Some shooters install a lighter trigger spring from Wolff Gunsprings to drop it to around 8-9 lbs.

Final Call

Over 1.2 million revolvers were sold in the U.S. in 2023, and the Taurus 856CH is a top contender for concealed carry. If you want a snag-free, six-shot wheelgun that won’t break the bank, this is it. Order yours now and get it shipped in 1-2 business days.

✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
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Last updated: April 2026