The Taurus Defender 856 Ultra-Lite .38 Special +P is a six-shot, small-frame revolver with a hard anodized black aluminum alloy frame, a 3-inch barrel and a front night sight (Taurus part no. 2-85631ULNS). The night sight has an orange outline that picks up in dim light, and the Hogue rubber grips cushion the hand during rapid strings. Taurus builds it as a double-action/single-action revolver at 24 ounces unloaded, light enough for daily carry. It suits concealed carry and home defense for those who want a simple, reliable snub-nose with a sight that works in low light.

Key Specifications

• Chambering is .38 Special +P, a defensive cartridge with plenty of loads available.
• Cylinder capacity is 6 rounds, a count that is generous for a small frame.
• The front sight is a night sight with an orange outline, which helps you find the front post in dim light.
• The rear sight is fixed, a rugged setup that has nothing to snag.
• The barrel measures 3.00 inches with a 1:16.5 right-hand twist, a length that balances concealment and sight radius.
• Overall length is 7.50 inches, with a height of 4.80 inches and a width of 1.41 inches.
• Unloaded weight is 24.00 ounces, light enough for daily carry.
• The action is double action/single action, offering a long pull or a lighter cocked-hammer shot.
• The frame is aluminum alloy with a hard anodized black finish, a coating that resists wear and keeps weight low.
• The grips are Hogue rubber, which Taurus fits to improve comfort and control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this Defender 856 have a night sight? Yes. Taurus fits a front night sight with an orange outline and pairs it with a fixed rear sight.

What is the frame made of? The frame is aluminum alloy with a hard anodized black finish, and the cylinder is stainless steel.

Is it rated for +P loads? Yes. Taurus lists the caliber as .38 Special +P.

Buy the Taurus Defender 856 Ultra-Lite Revolver, .38 Special +P, Black, Front Night Sight, Hogue Grips, 3-Inch, 6-Shot

The black Ultra-Lite Defender 856 keeps the aluminum frame light and adds a front night sight and Hogue grips for a practical carry revolver. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and browse our other revolvers.