Taurus 856 Defender

[Adam25]

IMG_1123.png I have a gift card to burn and won’t have to pay sales tax. Got the bug for another revolver. I really like the tungsten finish and wood grips. Does anyone own an 856? Experience? I have a 6in model 66 in 357, Taurus seems to be on top of qc at the moment.

[TheFlashG]

I have the 'standard' 856 in stainless with the 2 inch barrel.
Aside from being a bit louder due to the short barrel, it's been a very reliable and accurate little snubby. Shoots to point of aim (even with the rear sight being the top strap groove), and the trigger pulls - both DA/SA - are smooth and not too heavy.
And, I also got it because it has the 6-shot cylinder vs. the S&W 5-shot capacity.
Someday, I may swap out the front sight for an XS or other and perhaps swap the grips, too. But for now - for such a 'budget priced' revolver, I'm still quite impressed.

[kenl]

I'd say go for it. We've owned a m66 for a long time, and it's never let us down. And ive also heard that they've gotten better at QA.

While that 856 defender looks intresting, I'd really would like to check out a .357 605 T.O.R.O.

[Adam25]

I'd say go for it. We've owned a m66 for a long time, and it's never let us down. And ive also heard that they've gotten better at QA.

While that 856 defender looks intresting, I'd really would like to check out a .357 605 T.O.R.O.

The 605 in 357 would be great too. Just want to enjoy my freedom in Wyoming while it lasts before the move back to California

[smittty]

I have a two and I recommend the 856 Executive, it's become my favorite centerfire pistol.

The finish on all the these (except the executive) is matte texture that gets dirty and stays dirty looking even after cleaning.

The executive has higher level of finish and cleans easily. If you can't get an executive then I'd stick with the black finish.

https://www.kygunco.com/product/taurus-2-856ex39ch-executive-grade-856-38spl-p-3in-6rd#reviews

[k1dude]

Taurus has been upping their game lately. Go for it.

[Gravelman]

I’ve had a 3” 856 SS Defender for a few years now, it’s a great revolver. A Wolff spring kit made the trigger really good for a few bucks. It’s got about 400 rounds through it, no problems. The downside is availability of.38 ammo, but that’s getting a little better lately.

[RAMCLAP]

I have a 2 inch matte. It works.