Taurus 856 and 856 Ultra Lite 38 special

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I found some stainless ones in both ul and full weight for $216.

https://lockedloaded.com/product-search-results?search_text=Taurus+856

Read the reviews on that outfit. I don't think I'd touch them with a ten-foot pole...

I have a couple of Taurus handguns that have been wonderful, but there are plenty of folks who have had to send theirs back for warranty repairs, etc. I'd be sure to purchase it from a dealer you know and trust will help if you happen to run into some kind of difficulty.
 
I have a 22oz stainless 856 of recent production and I like it a lot. It's not perfect, one of the charge holes when indexed very very slowly will barely need cough for the cylinder stop to click. So I peened the ratchet slightly to advance it and it's perfect now. I was not going to send it off for who knows how long and for who knows what result. So my advice is these are good revolvers, but it's best if you can inspect in hand at the counter before committing to a particular specimen.

I would go with the all steel version if your primary interest is introduction to revolvers for either of you, while providing an option for home defense and carry (with a decent holster and belt it won't be a problem). You may decide in future to use a +P JHP round and the lightweight guns can be very painful for some, discouraging practice...
 
OK, I have decided to go for one of these as my first revolver. I am thinking that I'll stick with DA/SA version (not the bobbed hammer) and a stainless look, so it's down to the all stainless (22 oz) or alloy/stainless (16 oz) models. I was planning to help my wife get comfortable shooting with it, which argues for the heavier version, but I might also carry it, which argues for the lighter version. As long as I stick to mild loads (think 148 gr wadcutters) I am thinking the lighter version would be good for both purposes. Thoughts?

I'm really itching to try one of these, too. The choice between the aluminum or steel frame is a tough one. I'd want to shoot it a lot but I'd also like to carry it. I think I'd go with the aluminum model and load up some light target loads for the range. After all, that's an advantage of a revolver... you don't need a certain power level round to work the action reliably and you can load pretty much anything you like.
 
OK, I have decided to go for one of these as my first revolver. I am thinking that I'll stick with DA/SA version (not the bobbed hammer) and a stainless look, so it's down to the all stainless (22 oz) or alloy/stainless (16 oz) models. I was planning to help my wife get comfortable shooting with it, which argues for the heavier version, but I might also carry it, which argues for the lighter version. As long as I stick to mild loads (think 148 gr wadcutters) I am thinking the lighter version would be good for both purposes. Thoughts?

The lighter model would be better for pocket carry but the steel model its possible as well.

For holster carry I'm not sure the steel version would be all that bad.

With wadcutters the UL shouldn't be too bad, but everyone feels recoil different.

I would say get the all steel model since its main function will be as a training aid. Since they are inexpensive enough you can always get the UL later and have an all steel house gun
 
OK, I went ahead and ordered the DA/SA all-stainless 856. As BlueHeelerFl pointed out, at this price (about $220 after the transfer fee and rebate), I could always get a lighter one later. Pics and report to follow in a week or two. Cheers, Matthew
 
I have the 5 shot UL 38sp, 5 shot older 38sp and a 6shot 357 with adj sightsand longer barrel, I really enjoy shooting the 357 and I carry the UL in an ankle holster. I loaded some wad cutters for practice that are considered a "cowboy" (?) load that are fun to shoot even for the grandkids
 
OK, I have decided to go for one of these as my first revolver. I am thinking that I'll stick with DA/SA version (not the bobbed hammer) and a stainless look, so it's down to the all stainless (22 oz) or alloy/stainless (16 oz) models. I was planning to help my wife get comfortable shooting with it, which argues for the heavier version, but I might also carry it, which argues for the lighter version. As long as I stick to mild loads (think 148 gr wadcutters) I am thinking the lighter version would be good for both purposes. Thoughts?

i would get the 22oz stainless version: will be easier (especially for a newbie) to shoot and with a decent holster the extra weight shouldn’t be a problem. i like wadcutters for my lightweight snubbie but this ammo isn’t easy to find on a whim, must stock up by mail or at gunshows. the heavier snubbie absorbs recoil much better so that any non +p is easy shooting.
 
I have to say I am really impressed. Might just be my, First Tauras, Especially since the company has improved so much in the last few years. They are coming out with some nice products. More and more Tauras products are coming to be seen at my club with a lot of folks having nothing but good things to say about a number of their guns.
I have a LCR9mm, LCR22 and a Smith 642. I train with the 9mm and 22 and carry the 642. Now I have been wanting a DA/SA, but have been putting it off. This might be a big Game changer. I like this gun from all the reviews. In fact, I am more impressed with this gun than some other guns that are making the internet news. Bravo to Tauras!
6 Rounds in a Revolver at a affordable cost? I want the ULTRA LITE!! It will go perfect with the Snubs I own now.




 
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Yup, I did some size comparisons between the 856CH, S&W642 and CA Off Duty and was suprised how close they were except for cylinder diameter, which is the price to pay for that sixth shot. I did order the all-stainless 856, so if I like it I might just get an Ultra Lite CH model to go with it, but not that red one. ;-)
 
FWIW, I ended up ordering mine online from Tin Star Shooting Range for $223 including free shipping. My LGS charges $25 for the transfer plus the $5 for the mandatory name check, but Taurus will reimburse both thanks to the $30 rebate for the stainless model. I also picked up a Desantis Nemesis pocket holster, some Bianchi speed strips, and a little zippered nylon surf wallet as a discreet speed strip carrier from Amazon for about $32. $255 all in for a complete CCW solution, not bad at all.
 
Read the reviews on that outfit. I don't think I'd touch them with a ten-foot pole...

I have a couple of Taurus handguns that have been wonderful, but there are plenty of folks who have had to send theirs back for warranty repairs, etc. I'd be sure to purchase it from a dealer you know and trust will help if you happen to run into some kind of difficulty.

I’ve ordered from them multiple times and each time was seamless
 
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