Taurus 856 1776 38 Spl 2" 6rd Two-Tone Revolver

The 856 is Taurus's six shot 38 Special, and six is the point. Most snub revolvers this size hold five. This 1776 commemorative pairs a stainless frame with a black coated stainless cylinder for a two tone look, and drops in custom Altamont grips engraved with 1776 to mark the 250th anniversary of the country. The grips are the reason to buy this version over the plain one, and they are the kind of detail that usually costs extra as an aftermarket add.

Mechanically it is a straightforward DA/SA revolver. Pull through for double action, or cock the hammer when there is time for a deliberate shot. A transfer bar keeps the hammer off the primer until the trigger is fully to the rear, so all six chambers get loaded without worry. The 2" barrel and small frame put it squarely in the pocket and ankle holster class, and it is rated for 38 Special +P if defensive loads are the plan. At 35 oz it is heavier than the aluminum framed guns it competes with, and that weight earns its keep: +P recoil stays manageable instead of punishing, and the gun tracks back on target faster. The rear sight is fixed, which is right for the job.