Is the Taurus 856 good for self-defense?

The Taurus 856 is considered a good option for self-defense by many firearm enthusiasts. It is a compact, six-shot revolver chambered in .38 Special, which is known for being a reliable and manageable caliber for personal protection. The revolver’s small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and conceal. Additionally, revolvers like the Taurus 856 are often praised for their simplicity and reliability, with fewer moving parts compared to semi-automatic pistols, leading to fewer malfunctions.

However, the suitability of any firearm for self-defense ultimately depends on individual preference and needs. It is important to consider factors such as comfort, ease of use, and proficiency with the weapon. It is advisable to handle and test fire any firearm, if possible, before making a decision. Additionally, proper training and regular practice are crucial to ensure effective self-defense.

Is the Taurus 856 drop safe?

Yes, the Taurus 856 revolver is designed to be drop safe. It includes an internal hammer block safety mechanism that prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled. However, like with any firearm, it’s important to follow proper safety protocols and handling instructions to ensure safe operation.

Is the Taurus 856 a 38 Special?

Yes, the Taurus 856 is a revolver chambered in .38 Special.

Is the Taurus 856 rated for +P ammo?

Yes, the Taurus 856 is rated for +P ammunition. This means it can handle the higher pressure of +P cartridges compared to standard loads. However, it’s always a good practice to consult the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding ammunition specifications and compatibility.

Is 9mm better than 38 Special?

The comparison between 9mm and .38 Special depends on the context in which you are evaluating them, as both have different characteristics:

1. **Ballistics and Performance**:
– **9mm**: Known for higher velocity and flatter trajectory. It typically offers higher magazine capacity in semi-automatic handguns.
– **.38 Special**: Often used in revolvers, known for manageable recoil and effectiveness at close range. It is generally slower than 9mm.

2. **Usage**:
– If looking for a semi-automatic weapon with higher capacity, 9mm is often preferred.
– .38 Special is valued for simplicity and reliability in revolvers.

3. **Recoil and Control**:
– 9mm generally has more recoil than .38 Special but is still considered manageable for most shooters.

4. **Cost and Availability**:
– 9mm ammunition is typically more widely available and less expensive than .38 Special.

5. **Personal Preference**:
– The choice may also depend on personal comfort, experience, and the specific application (self-defense, competition, etc.).

Ultimately, neither is categorically “better” than the other; it depends on individual needs and preferences.

Can you pocket carry a Taurus 856?

Yes, the Taurus 856, being a small-frame revolver, is compact enough for pocket carry. However, its suitability for pocket carry also depends on factors such as the size of the pockets, the type of holster used, and personal comfort and safety preferences. Always ensure that the firearm is securely holstered and that trigger protection is provided to prevent accidental discharge.

Is it OK to dry fire a Taurus revolver?

Dry firing a Taurus revolver is generally considered safe as long as the revolver is in good condition and the manufacturer’s guidelines permit it. Many modern Taurus revolvers are designed to withstand dry firing without damage. However, to be certain, you should consult the owner’s manual or contact Taurus directly to ensure that dry firing is safe for your specific model. Using snap caps can also provide a safer alternative when practicing dry firing.

Are Taurus 85 and 856 the same?

No, the Taurus 85 and Taurus 856 are not the same, though they are similar. The Taurus 85 is a smaller, classic revolver chambered in .38 Special, generally designed for concealed carry. The Taurus 856, on the other hand, is also chambered in .38 Special but is typically a 6-shot revolver, offering an extra round compared to the Taurus 85. The 856 is slightly larger due to this additional capacity. While they share similar design characteristics, they differ mainly in capacity and size.

Does the Taurus 856 have a transfer bar?

Yes, the Taurus 856 does have a transfer bar safety mechanism. This feature helps prevent accidental discharge by ensuring that the hammer does not make contact with the firing pin unless the trigger is pulled fully to the rear.

Can you shoot 357 out of 38?

No, you cannot shoot a .357 Magnum round out of a firearm specifically designed for .38 Special ammunition. Although the .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds are similar in diameter, the .357 Magnum is longer and generally operates at a higher pressure. Firing a .357 Magnum in a gun designed for .38 Special can be dangerous due to these higher pressures and could potentially damage the firearm or cause injury. However, a .357 Magnum revolver can safely fire .38 Special rounds due to its ability to handle the higher pressures of the .357 cartridge. Always use the ammunition type specified by the firearm manufacturer.

Can a Taurus 38 Special shoot +P ammo?

Yes, a Taurus .38 Special can generally shoot +P ammunition if it is specifically rated for +P ammo. Not all guns are rated for this higher-pressure ammunition, so you should check your firearm’s manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm. Shooting +P ammo in a firearm not rated for it can lead to excessive wear or even damage to the gun.

What is the difference between a Taurus 856 and 857?

The primary difference between the Taurus 856 and the 857 is their capacity to handle different types of ammunition. The Taurus 856 is designed to fire .38 Special cartridges, while the Taurus 857 is built to handle both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. The ability to chamber .357 Magnum rounds generally means that the Taurus 857 is built to withstand higher pressures, often resulting in a different frame or barrel design to accommodate the more powerful ammunition.

How reliable is the Taurus 856?

The Taurus 856 is generally regarded as a reliable revolver, especially considering its budget-friendly price point. Many users appreciate its solid construction, ease of use, and the inclusion of features like a comfortable grip and a smooth trigger pull. It is often praised for its performance and durability as a compact carry option.

However, as with any firearm, individual experiences can vary, and some users report occasional quality control issues or the need for initial adjustments. It’s always recommended to purchase from reputable dealers and, if possible, test the firearm before purchase. Additionally, regular maintenance and proper care can help ensure long-term reliability.

What caliber is best for self-defense revolver?

The best caliber for a self-defense revolver often depends on a balance of stopping power, recoil, and ease of use. Common recommendations include:

– **.38 Special:** Widely recommended for its manageable recoil and effectiveness.
– **.357 Magnum:** Offers more stopping power than .38 Special, but with more recoil.
– **9mm:** Increasingly popular for revolvers designed to chamber this traditionally semi-automatic round due to its balance of power and cost.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual comfort, proficiency, and situational needs. It’s advisable to try different calibers at a range before making a decision.

Is 38 Special any good?

38 Special, the band, is generally well-regarded, especially if you enjoy Southern rock and classic rock genres. They gained popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You,” and “Second Chance.” Fans appreciate their catchy melodies, strong guitar riffs, and the blend of rock and pop elements. Whether or not you’ll like them depends on your personal music taste, but they have a significant following and are considered classic in their genre.