Taurus Defender 856 Review

Explore the Taurus Defender 856, a .38 Special (+P) revolver with a 6-round capacity and a 3-inch barrel. Weighing 35 oz, it features front night sights, a fixed rear sight, available in black or stainless finishes, and a comfortable rubberized grip for enhanced handling. It’s an extension of the Taurus 85 line, known for its reliability and affordability. This review will delve into various aspects of the Defender 856, such as its design, performance, ergonomics, and overall value, to provide a comprehensive overview.

Design and Features

The Taurus Defender 856 is notable for its compact and rugged design, making it an ideal choice for concealed carry. It’s a .38 Special revolver that comes with a 3-inch barrel, offering a good balance between accuracy and concealability. The revolver features a 6-round capacity, which is a step up from the traditional 5-round snub-nose models, providing the shooter with an extra round of defense.

One of the standout features of the Defender 856 is its front sight, which is typically a night sight for improved visibility in low-light conditions. The rear sight is usually fixed, contributing to the revolver’s simplicity and reliability. The firearm is available in various finishes, including stainless steel and matte black, allowing buyers to choose according to their personal preferences.

Performance

In terms of performance, the Taurus Defender 856 is known for its reliability. It handles standard .38 Special rounds with ease, and many models are rated for +P ammunition, offering more power for self-defense situations. The trigger pull in double-action is smooth for a revolver in this price range, and the single-action pull is crisp, contributing to improved accuracy for precision shots.

The revolver’s 3-inch barrel provides a better sight radius than the typical 2-inch snub-nose revolvers, improving accuracy without sacrificing too much in terms of concealability. Recoil is manageable, especially considering its small frame, making it suitable for shooters of various skill levels.

Pros and Cons

My Personal Maintenance Routine Taurus Defender 856

• Safety Check Always begin by ensuring the revolver is unloaded. Check the chamber, cylinder, and barrel to make sure there are no rounds present.
• Disassemble for Cleaning Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely disassemble your revolver to a level recommended for routine cleaning. For the Defender 856, this typically involves opening the cylinder but does not require full disassembly.
• Clean the Barrel Use a bore brush and solvent to clean the inside of the barrel. Run the brush through the barrel several times, then follow up with a patch soaked in solvent. Finish by running dry patches through the barrel until they come out clean.
• Clean the Cylinder Apply solvent to a brush and clean each chamber of the cylinder thoroughly. Like the barrel, follow up with solvent-soaked patches and then dry patches until they emerge clean.
• Clean the Frame and Action Use a soft brush and solvent to gently clean the frame and action of the revolver. Pay special attention to the forcing cone and the area around the firing pin.
• Lubricate Apply a small amount of gun oil to areas of the revolver that experience movement or friction. This includes the ejector rod, the cylinder release, and the hinges. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess oil can attract dirt and grime.
• Check the Screws Ensure that all screws are tight and secure, but be careful not to over-tighten, as this can strip the threads. This includes grip screws and any screws on the sight, if applicable.
• Inspect for Wear and Tear Regularly inspect your revolver for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. Pay particular attention to the condition of the grips, the smoothness of the cylinder rotation, and the integrity of the barrel and cylinder.
• Function Test After reassembly, perform a function test to ensure that all parts are working correctly. Check the action, trigger, cylinder release, and safety mechanisms to make sure they operate smoothly.
• Storage Store your Defender 856 in a cool, dry place, ideally in a gun safe or case with moisture-absorbing materials. Avoid leaving it in places with extreme temperature changes to prevent condensation and rust.

Safety Tips

• Never assume a firearm is unloaded. Always check the chamber, cylinder, or magazine before handling. This practice helps prevent accidental discharges.
• Always keep the firearm pointed in a direction where an accidental discharge would not cause injury or damage. A safe direction means a direction in which a bullet cannot possibly strike anyone, taking into account possible ricochets and the type of bullets being used.
• Your finger should rest outside the trigger guard until you have aimed at the target and are ready to fire. This prevents accidental discharges and is a fundamental rule of gun safety.
• Bullets can penetrate walls and ceilings, so it’s crucial to know not only what your target is but also what is beyond it. Never shoot at a target without a safe backdrop that can stop the bullet.
• Only use ammunition that is specifically designed for your firearm. Using incorrect or hand-loaded ammunition can be dangerous and may damage your firearm. Consult your firearm’s manual to know the correct caliber and type of ammunition to use.

Taurus Defender 856: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Aspect	Review Summary	Score
Cleaning Frequency	Essential after every use to maintain optimal performance. Critical for longevity.	9/10
Lubrication	Key for ensuring smooth action and reducing wear, but must avoid over-lubrication.	8/10
Inspection	Regular inspection for signs of wear or damage is crucial for maintaining safety and reliability.	9/10
Storage Conditions	Proper storage in a controlled environment protects against corrosion and damage.	8/10
Ammunition Check	Vital to use correct and quality ammunition to prevent malfunctions and ensure safety.	9/10
Parts Replacement	Timely replacement of worn parts prevents malfunctions and ensures reliability.	7/10
Professional Servicing	Annual check-ups by a qualified gunsmith can catch issues early and ensure proper maintenance.	8/10
Accessory Care	Accessories require maintenance for reliability and efficiency, though less critical than the gun itself.	7/10
Training Regularity	Regular practice is essential for safe handling and effective use under stress.	10/10
Safety Gear Maintenance	Maintaining safety equipment is as important as maintaining the firearm itself for overall safety.	9/10

Conclusion

The Taurus Defender 856 stands out as a versatile and reliable revolver that offers great value for anyone in need of a self-defense firearm. Its combination of compact design, enhanced capacity, and night sights, along with the option for +P ammunition, makes it a formidable tool for personal protection. While it may not have the prestige of higher-end brands, its performance, ergonomics, and affordability make it a worthy contender in the market. Whether for concealed carry or home defense, the Defender 856 is a solid choice that balances functionality, comfort, and budget.

FAQs about Taurus Defender 856

• What caliber is the Taurus Defender 856 chambered in?
  The Taurus Defender 856 is chambered in .38 Special and is also capable of firing .38 Special +P ammunition for increased power.
• How many rounds can the Taurus Defender 856 hold?
  The revolver has a 6-round capacity, which is one more round than the traditional 5-round snub-nose revolvers.
• Does the Taurus Defender 856 have any special features for low-light situations?
  Yes, the Taurus Defender 856 typically comes equipped with a front night sight to enhance visibility and target acquisition in low-light conditions.
• Is the Taurus Defender 856 suitable for concealed carry?
  Absolutely. Its compact size, combined with a 3-inch barrel, makes it an excellent choice for concealed carry, offering a balance between concealability and accuracy.
• Can I use +P ammunition in my Taurus Defender 856?
  Yes, the Taurus Defender 856 is rated for +P ammunition, allowing for the use of higher pressure rounds for self-defense purposes.
• What kind of maintenance does the Taurus Defender 856 require?
  Regular cleaning and lubrication after use, periodic inspection for wear and damage, and proper storage are key to maintaining the revolver’s performance and longevity.
• How should I store my Taurus Defender 856 to prevent damage?
  Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a gun safe with moisture-absorbing materials to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Are there different finish options available for the Taurus Defender 856?
  Yes, it’s available in various finishes, including stainless steel and matte black, allowing users to choose according to their preference and needs.
• What should I do if I notice wear or damage on my revolver?
  Discontinue use and have it inspected by a qualified gunsmith as soon as possible to prevent safety issues or further damage.
• Can I adjust the sights on the Taurus Defender 856?
  The revolver comes with a fixed rear sight and a replaceable front sight, which may offer some level of customization, but extensive adjustments to the sighting are limited.

We’re eager to learn from your experiences! If you’ve had the opportunity to use the Taurus Defender 856, please share your thoughts and stories in the comments section below. Whether it’s about its performance, reliability, or how it fares in day-to-day carry, your insights are invaluable. Your personal review could greatly assist others in making well-informed decisions about this revolver. Let’s create a helpful community for enthusiasts and potential users alike!