Reviews: Taurus 856 Executive Grade

Published on August 1, 2022
Duration: 8:28

The Taurus 856 Executive Grade is a premium, custom-shop-built .38 Special revolver. It features a 3-inch barrel, all stainless steel construction with a bead-blasted finish, Altamont walnut grips, and a smooth double-action-only trigger. The replaceable front sight allows for load-specific zeroing, and the chamfered chambers facilitate smooth reloads. It's presented as a highly capable defensive revolver with impressive accuracy and velocity from its short barrel.

Quick Summary

The Taurus 856 Executive Grade is a premium .38 Special +P revolver featuring a 3-inch stainless steel barrel, fixed sights, and a smooth double-action-only trigger. Built in a custom shop environment, it offers excellent accuracy and velocity, with tested loads achieving up to 1097 fps. Its MSRP of $689 makes it a high-value option for a custom-grade defensive firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Taurus 856 Executive Grade
  2. 00:31First Impressions and Design
  3. 01:03Finish and Grips
  4. 01:27Key Features: Replaceable Sight & Chamfered Chambers
  5. 01:37Action and Trigger
  6. 01:44Double Action Only and MSRP
  7. 01:54Evolution of Taurus Revolvers
  8. 03:03Market Demand and Product Development
  9. 03:37Concealed Carry Baseline
  10. 04:05Target Load Accuracy Test
  11. 04:55Accuracy Results
  12. 05:18Defensive Load Test (5 Yards)
  13. 05:51Velocity Testing Introduction
  14. 06:20Wad Cutter Velocity
  15. 06:33Honey Badger Velocity
  16. 06:52Water Jug Test
  17. 07:07Water Jug Test Results
  18. 07:22Conclusion and Recommendation
  19. 07:43Final Thoughts
  20. 07:52Firearm Safety Reminder

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Taurus 856 Executive Grade revolver?

The Taurus 856 Executive Grade is a .38 Special +P revolver with a 3-inch barrel, fixed sights, a snubbed hammer for double-action-only operation, and an all-stainless steel construction with a bead-blasted finish. It includes Altamont walnut grips and a replaceable front sight.

How does the Taurus 856 Executive Grade perform in terms of accuracy?

In testing with 148-grain Black Hills wad cutter loads at approximately 13-14 yards, the Taurus 856 Executive Grade demonstrated impressive accuracy, producing tight groups. The reviewer anticipates it could easily achieve two-inch groups at 25 yards.

What kind of ammunition is recommended for the Taurus 856 Executive Grade?

The reviewer tested both 148-grain Black Hills wad cutter target loads and 100-grain Black Hills Honey Badger .38 Special +P defensive ammunition. The Honey Badger load is noted as the reviewer's personal favorite for defensive carry.

What is the build quality and price point of the Taurus 856 Executive Grade?

This revolver is built in a dedicated custom shop area with skilled personnel, offering a premium feel and finish. With an MSRP of $689, it's positioned as a custom-grade firearm at an accessible price point, significantly raising the bar for Taurus revolvers.

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