Taurus Defender 856 Review: A Reliable and Concealable Pistol
As a firearms enthusiast, I’ve had the opportunity to try out various pistols, and the Taurus Defender 856 is one of the most impressive models I’ve come across. This lightweight, easy-to-conceal pistol has gained a loyal following among concealed carry enthusiasts, and for good reason. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Taurus Defender 856, highlighting its pros and cons, and what makes it a great choice for those looking for a reliable and concealable pistol.
Design and Features
The Taurus Defender 856 boasts a sleek and modern design, with a distinctive "Twister" texture on the grip that provides a comfortable feel in the hand. The frame, cylinder, and barrel are made from high-strength stainless steel, with a Matte Stainless finish that provides excellent protection from the elements. The pistol also features an exposed hammer spur with knurled texturing, making it comfortable to shoot in single-action mode.
One of the standout features of the Defender 856 is its two-tone finish, which gives the pistol a unique and eye-catching appearance. The Matte black finish on the cylinder and barrel provides excellent protection from the elements, while the Matte Stainless finish on the frame and barrel adds a touch of sophistication.
Features and Capabilities
The Taurus Defender 856 is designed with concealed carry enthusiasts in mind, and it delivers on that promise. The pistol features an easy-to-use trench sight, which allows for quick and accurate aiming in low-light environments. The front night sight is also a game-changer, providing unparalleled accuracy in even the darkest conditions.
The Defender 856 also features an exposed hammer spur with knurled texturing, making it comfortable to shoot in single-action mode. This design choice also provides a unique feel, as the knurled texturing provides a tactile connection to the gun, making it easier to shoot accurately.
Pros
- Reliability: The Taurus Defender 856 is known for its reliability, with a reputation for firing consistently and accurately.
- Concealability: The pistol’s lightweight design and two-tone finish make it easy to conceal, even in tight spaces.
- Accuracy: The Defender 856’s front night sight and exposed hammer spur with knurled texturing make it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and accurate pistol.
- Affordability: The Taurus Defender 856 is an affordable pistol, with a price point that’s hard to beat.
- Customization: The pistol’s VZ Grip allows for customization, with a range of aftermarket accessories available.
Cons
- Limited magazine capacity: The Taurus Defender 856 has a relatively small magazine capacity, which may be a concern for those who prefer larger magazines.
- No manual safety: The pistol does not have a manual safety, which may be a concern for those who prefer a more secure firearm.
- No adjustable sights: The Defender 856 does not have adjustable sights, which may be a concern for those who prefer a more customizable firearm.
- No built-in light: The pistol does not have a built-in light, which may be a concern for those who prefer a firearm with built-in illumination.
Conclusion
The Taurus Defender 856 is a reliable and concealable pistol that’s perfect for those looking for a reliable and accurate firearm. Its lightweight design, two-tone finish, and exposed hammer spur with knurled texturing make it an excellent choice for concealed carry enthusiasts. While it may have some limitations, the Defender 856 is an excellent value for the price, and its customization options make it easy to tailor to individual preferences.
Pros and Cons Summary
- Pros:
- Reliable and accurate
- Concealable and easy to carry
- Affordable
- Customization options
- Cons:
- Limited magazine capacity
- No manual safety
- No adjustable sights
- No built-in light
Recommendation
The Taurus Defender 856 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and concealable pistol. Its unique design, customization options, and affordability make it an excellent value for the price. However, those who prefer larger magazines or more advanced features may want to consider other options.
