Taurus 856 .38 Special Revolver, 2" Barrel, Fixed Sights, Black – 285621VZ19 For Sale

Is the Taurus 856 good for self-defense?

The Taurus 856 can be a viable option for self-defense. It is a compact, double-action revolver chambered in .38 Special, known for being user-friendly, reliable, and easy to carry due to its size and weight. It typically features a 6-round capacity and has a reputation for decent accuracy. If considering it for self-defense, it’s important to evaluate personal preferences, comfort with revolvers, and ensure that regular practice is part of your routine to be effective in a defensive situation.

Is the Taurus 856 a 38 Special?

Yes, the Taurus 856 is a revolver that is chambered for the .38 Special cartridge.

Is there a difference between a .38 and .38 Special?

Yes, there is a difference between a .38 and a .38 Special. The term “.38” can refer to several different cartridges, but “.38 Special” is a specific type of ammunition. Here’s a brief explanation:

1. **.38 Special**: This is a specific cartridge that was developed by Smith & Wesson in 1898. It is a rimmed, centerfire cartridge commonly used in revolvers. The .38 Special is known for its accuracy and manageable recoil, making it popular for target shooting and self-defense.

2. **.38 (General Term)**: The designation “.38” can refer to a range of cartridges that generally have a bullet diameter close to .357 to .358 inches. Besides the .38 Special, it can also refer to other cartridges, such as the .38 Short Colt, .38 Long Colt, or even older black powder cartridges. Each of these has different specifications and ballistic performance.

In summary, while “.38” can refer to multiple different ammunition types, “.38 Special” specifies a particular cartridge with its own characteristics and uses.

Is a 38 Special a good carry gun?

The suitability of a .38 Special as a carry gun depends on several factors including personal preferences, intended use, and experience level. The .38 Special is popular for concealed carry due to its manageable recoil, reliability, and generally compact size, especially in revolver models. It’s important to consider factors such as:

1. **Size and Weight**: Many .38 Special revolvers are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and conceal.
2. **Recoil and Control**: The .38 Special typically has moderate recoil, which can be manageable for most shooters, contributing to better accuracy.
3. **Reliability**: Revolvers chambered in .38 Special are known for their reliability, as they have fewer moving parts than semi-automatic firearms.
4. **Capacity**: Revolvers generally have a lower ammunition capacity than semi-automatics, which might be a consideration for some.
5. **Ammunition Availability**: .38 Special ammunition is widely available and comes in various loads suitable for self-defense.
6. **Personal Comfort and Training**: Ultimately, the best carry gun is one that you are comfortable with and have trained with extensively.

It’s essential to try different firearms and possibly consult with experts or firearm instructors to determine what works best for you. Personal preferences, along with intended use, should guide your decision.

Is the Taurus 856 drop safe?

Yes, the Taurus 856 is designed with safety features to make it drop safe. It includes an innovative transfer bar mechanism that prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully engaged. However, it’s always a good idea to handle all firearms with care and follow all safety guidelines.

What is the best caliber pistol for self-defense?

The best caliber for a self-defense pistol depends on several factors, including personal preference, comfort level, and specific needs. Common calibers often recommended for self-defense include:

1. **9mm Luger**: Known for its manageable recoil, wide availability, and sufficient stopping power, making it a popular choice for many.
2. **.45 ACP**: Offers strong stopping power with more recoil; preferred by those who prioritize power.
3. **.40 S&W**: A balance between 9mm and .45 ACP in terms of power and recoil.
4. **.380 ACP**: Suitable for compact and lightweight pistols, with less recoil but generally less stopping power compared to larger calibers.

Ultimately, the best choice is one that you can handle comfortably, shoot accurately, and fit well with your self-defense needs. It’s also important to consider the pistol’s size, capacity, and ease of carry.

Can a 38 Special shoot 357?

No, a .38 Special cannot shoot .357 Magnum cartridges. The .357 Magnum has a higher pressure and a slightly longer casing, making it incompatible and potentially dangerous to use in a firearm designed specifically for .38 Special cartridges. However, firearms chambered for .357 Magnum can typically shoot .38 Special rounds.

What ammo does a Taurus 856 use?

The Taurus 856 uses .38 Special ammunition.

Is there a safety on a Taurus revolver?

No, Taurus revolvers typically do not have an external safety. Instead, they rely on their long and deliberate trigger pull as a safety mechanism. Always refer to the specific model’s manual for detailed safety features and ensure safe handling practices.

Is a 38 Super stronger than a 9mm?

The .38 Super and the 9mm Parabellum (9x19mm) are two different cartridges with distinct characteristics. Generally, the .38 Super is considered to be more powerful than the standard 9mm in terms of velocity and energy. The .38 Super typically fires a bullet weighing around 115-130 grains at a higher velocity compared to standard 9mm loads of similar bullet weight, resulting in greater energy. This increased power can translate into better performance for certain shooting applications, such as competition shooting or defense against larger threats. However, availability, firearm compatibility, and individual needs can also influence the choice between these cartridges.

What does p mean on 38 Special?

The “p” on “.38 Special” denotes “+P,” which indicates that the ammunition is loaded to higher pressure than standard .38 Special rounds. This increase in pressure gives the bullet additional velocity and energy, making it more powerful. “+P” ammunition should only be used in firearms rated to handle the increased pressure.

What is the most popular revolver caliber?

The most popular revolver caliber is generally considered to be the .38 Special. This caliber is widely used for its balance of manageable recoil and effective stopping power, making it a favorite among both law enforcement and civilian shooters for self-defense and range practice.

Is the Taurus 856 rated for P?

Yes, the Taurus 856 is rated for +P ammunition. This means it is designed to handle the increased pressure and power of +P cartridges, making it a suitable option for those who prefer to use higher-pressure rounds for self-defense or other purposes. However, frequent use of +P ammunition can accelerate wear and tear, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for usage.

Is there a safety on a Taurus revolver?

Yes, Taurus revolvers typically do not have an external manual safety. Instead, they rely on features like a transfer bar safety mechanism, which prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully engaged. This system is designed to help prevent accidental discharges. Always refer to the specific model’s manual for detailed safety information.

What is the trigger pull on a Taurus 856 revolver?

The trigger pull on a Taurus 856 revolver is typically around 10-12 pounds in double-action mode and approximately 4-6 pounds in single-action mode. These values can vary slightly depending on the specific model and manufacturing variations.