The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special: Lightweight Reliability
Alaska Guns is a Yakima, WA-based retailer specializing in tactical firearms and concealed carry essentials. The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special is a compact, lightweight revolver designed for everyday carry. Its aluminum alloy frame keeps weight down to just 22 ounces, making it one of the lightest .38 Special revolvers on the market. Available now for $281.69 with same-day shipping.
Reviewed by Aaron Drake, Inventory & Testing Lead at Alaska Guns. 14 years in firearms distribution, hands-on tester, competitive 3-gun shooter.
Last updated: May 2026
Features That Matter
The Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special packs serious capability into a compact frame. Its 2-inch barrel makes it ideal for concealed carry, while the textured rubber grip ensures a secure hold even in wet conditions. The double-action/single-action trigger provides versatility for both rapid follow-up shots and precise single-action firing.
What sets this revolver apart is its ultra-lightweight construction. The aluminum alloy frame keeps the weight manageable without sacrificing durability. The matte black finish resists corrosion, making it suitable for humid climates or coastal carry.
For those considering a Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special holster, the compact design fits most standard holsters made for 2-inch snubnose revolvers. The cylinder holds six rounds of .38 Special ammunition, giving you solid firepower in a discreet package.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Ultra-lightweight at just 22 ounces
- ✅ Reliable double-action/single-action trigger
- ✅ Textured rubber grip for secure handling
- ✅ Compact 2-inch barrel for easy concealment
- ✅ Affordable price point for budget-conscious buyers
- ❌ Limited to .38 Special ammunition (see our .357 Magnum revolvers for more power)
- ❌ Shorter barrel reduces long-range accuracy
Who It’s For
Buy it if: You need a lightweight, reliable revolver for concealed carry or as a backup firearm. It’s perfect for rural living, ranch security, or urban concealed carry.
Skip it if: You require long-range accuracy or prefer semi-automatic pistols. Consider our S&W J-Frame revolvers for higher-end alternatives.
Specifications
| Product Type | Revolver |
|---|---|
| Material | Aluminum Alloy Frame, Steel Cylinder |
| Manufacturing | CNC Machined |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Hardness/Quality | Mil-Spec |
| Compatibility | .38 Special Ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to Fire |
| Weight | 22 oz |
| Dimensions | 6.65″ L x 1.41″ W |
| Country of Origin | Brazil |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | T856UL38 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special online?
You can purchase it right here at Alaska Guns (alaska-guns.com) with same-day shipping from Yakima, WA.
What holster fits the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?
Most standard holsters made for 2-inch snubnose revolvers will fit the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special.
Is the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special good for concealed carry?
Yes, its compact size and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
What’s the difference between the 2-inch and 3-inch barrel models?
The 2-inch barrel offers better concealment, while the 3-inch barrel provides slightly better accuracy at longer ranges.
Can I use +P ammunition in the Taurus 856 Ultra-Lite?
Yes, it’s rated for +P .38 Special ammunition, but always check your owner’s manual first.
✅ Same-day shipping from Yakima, WA
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
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