Taurus 856 .38 Special 6 Shot 2" Revolver, Black – 2-856021M For Sale

Is the Taurus 856 good for self-defense?

The Taurus 856 is generally considered a good option for self-defense, especially for those looking for a small and reliable revolver. It has a compact design, typically holding six rounds of .38 Special ammunition, which is effective for self-defense situations. The revolver is known for its simplicity, ease of use, and reliability, which are important factors in high-stress self-defense scenarios. Additionally, its double-action operation allows for quick firing, and its small size makes it easy to carry and conceal. However, whether it’s the right choice for you depends on personal preferences, comfort with the firearm, and specific self-defense needs.

Is the Taurus 856 a 38 Special?

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

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

Yes, there is a difference between a .38 and a .38 Special. The “.38” typically refers to a caliber designation that can describe various cartridges that have a bullet diameter around .357 to .358 inches. It is a general term and can refer to different types of ammunition, such as the .38 Smith & Wesson or others.

The “.38 Special,” on the other hand, is a specific cartridge designed by Smith & Wesson. It is officially known as the .38 S&W Special and has been widely used for revolvers. It is known for its balance of power, recoil, and accuracy, making it popular among law enforcement and civilian shooters. While both use bullets of approximately the same diameter, they are not interchangeable, and specific ammunition must be used for firearms designed to chamber the .38 Special round.

Is a 38 Special a good carry gun?

Whether a .38 Special is a good carry gun depends on personal preference and specific needs. Here are some factors to consider:

1. **Size and Weight**: .38 Special revolvers are generally compact and lightweight, making them a popular choice for concealed carry.

2. **Reliability**: Revolvers, including those chambered in .38 Special, are known for their reliability, as they have fewer moving parts compared to semi-automatic pistols.

3. **Recoil**: The .38 Special typically has manageable recoil, which can be beneficial for quick follow-up shots and overall shooting comfort.

4. **Capacity**: Revolvers have limited capacity, usually holding between 5 and 6 rounds, which might be a drawback compared to higher-capacity semi-automatics.

5. **Stopping Power**: While effective for self-defense, the .38 Special is less powerful than some larger-caliber options, but it has been widely used and trusted for many years.

6. **Ammunition Availability**: .38 Special ammunition is commonly available, making it easier to find for practice and defense.

Ultimately, the suitability of a .38 Special as a carry gun depends on individual preferences regarding these factors. It is advisable to try different firearms at a range to determine what works best for you.

Is the Taurus 856 drop safe?

The Taurus 856, like any modern firearm, is generally designed to be drop safe, meaning it should not discharge if accidentally dropped under normal conditions. However, it’s important to handle all firearms with care and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safety. To ensure the Taurus 856’s drop safety, you should check for any safety recalls, updates, or specific testing results from the manufacturer. Always prioritize safe handling practices and consult official resources or a firearms expert for detailed safety information.

What is the best caliber pistol for self-defense?

When choosing the best caliber pistol for self-defense, it is essential to balance factors such as stopping power, recoil, capacity, size, and personal comfort. Common self-defense calibers include:

1. **9mm**: Widely recommended for its balance of manageable recoil, adequate stopping power, and high magazine capacity. It’s a popular choice for both beginners and experienced shooters.

2. **.40 S&W**: Offers more stopping power than 9mm but with slightly more recoil. It may be preferred by those looking for a bit more power, but it typically has a lower capacity compared to 9mm pistols.

3. **.45 ACP**: Known for its stopping power and larger bullet size, but with increased recoil and lower magazine capacity. It’s a favored choice for those prioritizing power over capacity.

Ultimately, the best caliber depends on personal preference, shooting ability, and confidence with the firearm. It’s advisable to try different calibers to determine what feels comfortable and meets your needs best. Additionally, considering factors such as ammunition availability and cost is also important.

Can a 38 Special shoot 357?

No, a .38 Special cannot safely shoot .357 Magnum ammunition. While a .357 Magnum revolver can typically accommodate .38 Special rounds, the reverse is not true. The .357 Magnum cartridge is longer and generates higher pressures than the .38 Special, which could be unsafe or catastrophic if fired from a firearm not designed for it. Always use the correct ammunition specified for your firearm.

What ammo does a Taurus 856 use?

The Taurus 856 uses .38 Special ammunition.

Is there a safety on a Taurus revolver?

Yes, most Taurus revolvers do not have a manual safety lever like semi-automatic pistols. Instead, they typically rely on transfer bar mechanisms and other internal safety systems that prevent the gun from firing unless the trigger is fully pulled. Always refer to the specific model’s manual for detailed safety information.

Is a 38 Super stronger than a 9mm?

Yes, the .38 Super is generally considered to be more powerful than the 9mm. The .38 Super typically achieves higher velocities and energy levels due to its larger case capacity and higher pressures. This results in better performance in terms of muzzle velocity and stopping power. However, availability of ammunition and other factors such as recoil and firearm design might influence the choice between the two cartridges depending on the intended use.

What does p mean on 38 Special?

The “p” on .38 Special ammo typically means “plus pressure,” or “+P.” It’s an indication that the cartridge is loaded to a higher pressure than standard ammunition, which can result in higher velocity and more stopping power. It’s important to ensure that your firearm is rated for +P ammunition before using it.

What is the most popular revolver caliber?

The most popular revolver caliber is generally considered to be the .38 Special. This caliber has been widely used for various purposes, including law enforcement, personal defense, and target shooting, due to its balance of performance, manageable recoil, and historical significance.

Is the Taurus 856 rated for P?

Yes, the Taurus 856 is rated for +P ammunition, meaning it can safely handle higher pressure rounds for improved performance. However, it’s always a good idea to consult the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the use of +P ammunition.

Is there a safety on a Taurus revolver?

No, Taurus revolvers do not have an external safety. Instead, they rely on features such as a transfer bar safety system and a heavy double-action trigger pull to help prevent accidental discharges.

What is the trigger pull on a Taurus 856 revolver?

The Taurus 856 revolver typically has a double-action trigger pull of approximately 10-12 pounds and a single-action trigger pull of about 4-6 pounds. However, these values can vary slightly depending on the specific model and manufacturing tolerances.