The Taurus 856 Executive .38 Revolver

A brief look at a bench tooled Taurus.
Puerto Rico Me Llama - Jimmy Fontanez_Media Right Productions - KZbin Audio Library
On Choice of a Defensive Firearm: Choose the firearm that meets YOUR defensive needs and is legal for your state or local jurisdiction. Just because I like revolvers for concealed carry doesn’t mean you have to too. Become your own best trainer.
You can contact Greg at [e-mail]
According to the Bible - we are to live at peace with all men as much as it is possible.
Personal defense of one’s self and of others is a last resort when there is no other option.
Self Defense Continuum - Avoid, Escape, De-escalate if possible, and if all else fails - RESIST
DISCLAIMER: All state and local laws were followed in making this video. Jeff Cooper’s rules of firearms safety were followed. Ear protection was worn. Firearms were cleared of ammunition when holding and exhibiting them.
These videos are strictly for documentary, educational, and entertainment purposes only. Imitation or the use of any acts depicted in these videos is solely AT YOUR OWN RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY. These videos are intended for lawful firearm owners who comply with federal, state, and municipal laws of the jurisdiction in which they live. Any opinions stated by the creator are the creator's alone and are not that of any representative body or of KZbin. KZbin and the creator are not be held liable for any injury to yourself or damage to your firearms resulting from attempting anything shown in any of our videos. The creator does not endorse any specific products and this video is not an attempt to sell you a good or service. The creator is not a firearm store and DOES NOT sell or deal in firearms. Such a practice is heavily regulated and subject to applicable laws. The creator DOES NOT sell parts, magazines, or firearms. These videos are free to watch and if anyone attempts to charge for this video notify us immediately. By viewing or flagging this video you are acknowledging the above.

[@YellowHammer26]

👍👍Thanks Greg, I’ve found out from watching lots of firearm content on KZbin that people who don’t make videos always know more and shoot faster and better than the ones doing the video.😊😊

[@LionquestFitness]

Hi Lance. That is why I say duplicate it. If you can shoot better than me; more power to you. Plenty of people do. But I do try to throw things in to make shooting more difficult and more applicable to a self defense situation.

[@YellowHammer26]

@@LionquestFitness 👍👍I appreciate what you do

[@erolkavlakverizon6112]

Slow is smooth, Smooth is fast. Great video Greg.

[@traumajock]

just like intubation

[@rbm6184]

@erolkavlakverizon6112 Agreed. Slow and smooth gets faster the more you practice.

[@oldcop18]

Only hits count Greg so let ‘em criticize, then see if anyone can do as well. I did note your reload was smooth & fast, and all the rounds found their mark. Keep shootin’ partner!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you compadre!

[@rbm6184]

@oldcop18 Agreed. Only hits count. Fast does not mean anything without hits.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

Wow Greg, that's a nice one! I've been eye balling those 3" models for a while... I really don't need one but... that's never stopped me before! Ha ha ha - looks like the sights are regulated well. Those grips are beautiful. Thanks for the great vid!

[@bigsamdog1]

I wish "I really don't need one." would stop me.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

@@bigsamdog1 Do you really? What fun would that be?

[@TheJHMAN1]

3" revolvers are really cool and versatile. Only trouble is finding decent holsters.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

True… you could get a Kydex IWB one for the 2” 856 and just remove a little material to allow the barrel to protrude …

[@LionquestFitness]

Steve sent me his holster as well; a Rob Latham pancake holster. I'll be taking about it, and things in the next video.

[@TheJHMAN1]

@@LionquestFitness I always prefer a leather holster, not a big fan of plastic holsters.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@TheJHMAN1 Same here, although I've been experimenting lately with Harry's Holsters for S&W and Taurus snubs.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

I live in San Antonio and it gets hot - the Kydex prevents the sweat from getting to the revolver and also doesn’t get “sticky” making it hard to draw. I like leather too but it’s a practical matter.

[@CarolinaRimfire]

I was wondering if one of these would ever make an appearance on the channel! I think they started making the 605 in the executive line now. Thought that one might be right up your alley. Take care, and thanks for the video!

[@LionquestFitness]

I'd been dodging the the three inch Defenders up to now, but this one has me reconsidering.

[@KatoCoyoteCombatWorkshop]

Always love to see another lefty running a revolver. Glad to hear about the smoother trigger. My new-style S&W Model 66 has the grittiest heaviest trigger in the world. Good thing that humans aren't fluorescent green, unless our homes are invaded by men in road safety vests.

[@jasonaffeldt7838]

Thanks for sharing Greg. Nice a viewer shipped it to ya to review👍. You and your family take care. 🇺🇲🔪🌲🔥

[@LionquestFitness]

You do the same Jason!

[@terrybarnes0712]

Thanks for the video Greg I have been looking at this Revolver for a while now I already have the 856 Snubby going to get the longer barrel soon God bless from Kentucky 🙏

[@stevepauley2437]

Wyatt Earp said, “It’s not the first shot that counts, it’s the first hit!” Accuracy wins gunfights, not fast misses.

[@joe1940]

Looks like a good carry gun, I like those grips. Great video 👍

[@bigal2696]

It's easy to criticize. Especially if you aren't doing anything. That's a fine looking handgun. It's one I've looked at purchasing. Thanks for another video and I know you aren't bothered by trolls and negative people - and I'm glad.

[@LionquestFitness]

Negative people who love to tear down others are their own worst enemies in more ways than one.

[@Paladin1873]

Suddenly I have a strong craving for a mojito.

[@LionquestFitness]

😅😅

[@marksongbird7534]

Have one of these, pics don't really do it justice. Looks much nicer in person. Has nice trigger.

[@marciocumpiancumpian2075]

Boa noite aqui do Brasil meu amigo americano, muito bom ver o Sr com outro Taurus na mão, só pó ara gariar, atirando muito bem. Quem reclama dizendo que é lento, eu digo, é de uma precisão espetacular,isso é o que importa, acertar o alvo. De que adiantaria atirar trinta gezes em quatro segundos e não acertar o alvo? Um excelente final de semana para o senhor e sua família. Deus abençoe as Américas 🇧🇷🤝🇺🇲

[@LionquestFitness]

Bom dia meu amigo! A aquisição de alvos parece ser um fundamental perdido nos dias de hoje. Wyatt Earp não viveu para ser um homem velho por ser descuidado com suas ações ou seus tiros.

[@marciocumpiancumpian2075]

@@LionquestFitness perfeito, também sou fã dele e de sua filosofia 🤝

[@3Pillers]

Thanks Greg for the video and thanks Steve for the lending the revolver 👍.

[@michaelgrosso4390]

Nice video Greg.Keep them coming.God bless you.

[@tomcarr4630]

I’ve been very interested in this gun, and you are the right person to review it!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks Tom.

[@s8tmanpaul77]

Right on man! Try doing what you just did without tripping over your own feet. I know I couldn’t do it. Thank you so much for reviewing the firearm. I have been wanting to see someone do a review and so far you are the only person that I follow who has done one on this new executive model. I would also like to see one and handle it, but nobody around our area has ❤gotten one yet!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks amigo.

[@rustyhook6723]

great looking gun, can't wait to see more

[@rbm6184]

K frame Model 10 speedloader? That is the Safariland Comp II. The HKS A-Series for Colt Det. Spl., Cobra, Diamondback, Agent, Magnum Plus designated DS-A is what Taurus recommends on their web site. Others have said the HKS 10-A works well. SPEED BEEZ for Taurus 856 also. Zeta6 K-PAK is another. Thanks for sharing.

[@robwilson3749]

I had played with/fondled one of these Executive Grade's at the shop but ultimately went with that Rossi RP-63. So far, so good. I recently picked up a 1985 Ruger Security Six @2-3/4" in .357 magnum with stainless finish. For yeeaarrsss now I've been hoping and writing Ruger in an attempt to have them develop and release a 3" LCR/LCRx in .38/.357 with a six (6) round capacity cylinder. But alas, not. I've had a strong suspicion for years already that the whole 3", 6 shot .38/.357 revolver thing was making a resurgence but that it would really be a home run minus the weight considerations of the 3" model 13/65. Thank you for the video. Enjoy that revolver while you have it.

[@LionquestFitness]

Those Ruger Security Sixes are hard to come by. Good find. Also, I've noticed that seems to be quite a market with gunsmiths cutting down barrels of old S&W Model 10 police trade-ins. As usual S&W ignored a potential market in three inch revolvers.

[@robwilson3749]

Not long before his passing, I had inadvertently wandered into discovering Tiger McKee (?) and was going to do just that. Have him take down either a 4" 10 or 4" 13 I have to 3" and have him turn it into one of his fighting revolvers. But alas, he passed..

[@marie-noellebaechler1433]

Thank you very much for this very nice little video, for your excellent shooting and for demonstrating this beautiful revolver. It's a very nice model

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you Marie.

[@marie-noellebaechler1433]

@@LionquestFitness you're very welcome

[@terryschiller2625]

Hi Greg, I love the Wyatt Earp quote at the end of your video. I have read that years ago and now train by that phrase. Good shooting Sir!🤠🇺🇲

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you Terry! Good words to train by.

[@TheWalkWithAl]

There’s a lot out there that speak before they think. But like you said, let them try that. And see how good day do. And how accurate they are with their shot placement. with the same scenario Great video my friend. Always enjoy.👍👍👍👍👍

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you Al! Have a good weekend

[@flyontop]

Great video! Loved the intro music!

[@ArizonaGhostriders]

Great video for a great .38!!

[@LionquestFitness]

Well, ole Wild Bill Hickok preferred his Navy . 36's which was the progenitor of the modern . 38 bullet.

[@ArizonaGhostriders]

@@LionquestFitness True, true!

[@AnarSchism.]

It's a gorgeous gun.

[@Moss500.]

I have looked at the 3 inch 856 and 3inch 605. Id name mine Rio Conchos good movie.

[@IAF7]

Great grouping and good taste in music. Saludos from P.R. 👉👍👈🖖

[@LionquestFitness]

Gracias mi amigo! Puerto Rico is calling.

[@anonymousf454]

This is "Tropical Island" Liomquest music...hahaha. It reminds me of the show "Great Chefs of the Caribbean" that I used to watch as a kid.....I love it. You need to plant a banana tree or two next to the target backing 😂😂😂 By the way, great shooting Sir 👍

[@LionquestFitness]

Catchy little tune isn't it? Puerto me Llama by Jimmy Fontanez.

[@anonymousf454]

@@LionquestFitness Nice...Im gonna look that up.

[@lessage760]

great review sir cant wait for some more on this revolver thank you

[@LionquestFitness]

We'll talk about accessories such as holsters, speed loaders and grips next week

[@petea4895]

I like your channel. I especially enjoy your reviews of revolvers. That taurus looks interesting.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thank you!

[@timnelson75]

I currently own a 38 special snubby and have been considering a 38 special with a 3 inch barrel for woods carry. What I like about the 38 special, it's comfortable to carry and shoot. I'm looking forward to your reviews of the Taurus 856 Executive. As far as a 38 special for woods carry, the one thing I'm not sure about, is bear defense.

[@LionquestFitness]

For bear? At least .357. On the other hand, a few years back, a viewer commented he'd stopped a feral hog with plus P .38 out of a two inch snub. It depends on what your most likely to face. Bear attacks are statistically very rare, but it pays to be prepared.

[@rbm6184]

@@LionquestFitness There have been law enforcement stopping bears with 9mm so a .38Spl. +P should also do the job if necessary. Maybe not ideal but its what folks are carrying so they use what they have with them.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@rbm6184 In the book Street Survival from 1981, it mentioned that 300 pound black bears had been killed with Lead Roundnose .38 Special, but I wouldn't want to rely on it if I had other means. There is a channel called Chuka Outdoors I watch and a recent video discussed what caliber he recommended people bring to Alaska. He made some interesting comments about bears and bear attacks.

[@rbm6184]

@@LionquestFitness Like I said, what folks carry is not ideal but its what they have with them. So I am sure carrying a more potent caliber such as a magnum of some sort with higher velocity is better but its not practical for most folks concealed carry both size of the gun and its greater recoil.

[@LionquestFitness]

@@rbm6184 True.

[@mikereese15]

Looks good to me

[@rickykeim2005]

Id prefer if it had a hammer spur but it looks like a nice little Gun.

[@jamesdeek7039]

I always enjoyed your videos. Wish i stay as spry as you at your age

[@LionquestFitness]

Fred Astaire commented one time that we'd never jump as high as when we were twenty, and this is true. However, clean living and daily exercise can go a long way as we age.

[@michael_alan]

Very nice Greg. A beautiful gun. I currently own 3 Taurus 856 snubbies. The 3" exacutive looks beautiful, but I love my 3" Colt King Cobra, so I have been able to resist the temptation of the upscale Taurus.

[@LionquestFitness]

Good man! Treasure that King Cobra.

[@dano1956]

Nice gun buddy, have a blessed week.

[@LionquestFitness]

You do the same Dano!

[@jeffanon1772]

👍👍

[@johnelder4273]

Fortunately, most would be assailants are probably NOT going to be dressed in florescent green. LOL! Looks like a real nice gun Greg, I'd be tempted to buy it based on looks alone.

[@LionquestFitness]

😂

[@bobperrine6193]

Better to be slow and accurate than fast and miss.

[@LionquestFitness]

Absolutely.

[@rbm6184]

@bobperrine6193 Exactly and practice makes faster.

[@Steve-1955]

Thank you for the Fine video You really do move smoothly

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks Steve!

[@joegilbert7661]

Good stuff young man! I am thinking/longing for one of these.

[@garageguy879]

I've been wanting to give oe of those a try but no shop around here has had one.

[@LionquestFitness]

This is the first one I've seen Mark.

[@lesgillard985]

Nice shooting Greg A few sugestions, if i may (i wont mention bandannas, promise 😊) I notices that that gun smoked. (I hope it is at thest 18 years old). As we know its a health hazard, not only to its self but to others. Might i suggest wearing a pair of optically corrected and certified gun safe, sun glasses? One must protect ones eyes.😊 Concerning your speed, well concerning your speed, verses accuracy. I think the first hit, would be a bit of a wake up call. I look forward to Tyler's opinions ( beware.... he might mention "bandannas 😮)

[@stevepauley2437]

I don’t mean this in a bad way, but every time I see you, you remind me of Bubba Skinner, from In the Heat Of The Night. He was one of my favorite characters.

[@LionquestFitness]

I'm not as tall or good looking as Alan Autry, but that is definitely a compliment.

[@steveh4962]

Greg, I do enjoy watching your channel and look forward to seeing a new video drop every weekend. That said, I just have my doubts about these South American made revolvers. Has quality control really improved? For 3 years I worked in my department's firearm training section. I still remember a lot of "gritty" actions and at least one seizing up impossibly. Maybe my bias is off base in today's world as I have been retired for a long time now.

[@LionquestFitness]

No, you have valid concerns I;m going to address in a future video.

[@furmanmackey5479]

I've been thinking about the 856 Executive, for possible purchase and carry, mainly because of the barrel length. I might yet buy one but frankly I would be even happier with a six shot, .357 Magnum, blue steel, "CEO" (yeah, I know, there ain't no such thing but that would be my name for such a revolver) that would rival the M19 Smith & Wesson of the 1970s with the 2.5" barrel and adjustable sights. With the same grips as seen on the Executive in your video and two speed loaders I would feel very well armed indeed.

[@LionquestFitness]

I feel like S&W has left money on the table by only making expensive boutique revolvers. I believe there is a market for basic K frames in two and three inches.

[@furmanmackey5479]

@@LionquestFitness My point exactly! The K frame might not be the strongest going but it makes carrying a revolver in a serous defensive round, the .357 Magnum in this case, comfortable for Old, Fat, Tired, Grey Haired, and Retired LEO, Goobers like me feel a bit more comfortable/confident when we are out and bout. Hello Taurus? Are you listening?

[@ashleywellman3516]

Smooth is fast!

[@CyborgZeta]

I got one for my mom last year, but when I tried it myself I didn't find it shot any better than the 856 snub. The factory wood grips are awful; they feel loose and rattle when you take them off the first time. And they interfere with almost every speedloader. I sold it a few months ago after I discovered the .32 cartridge family and found a S&W 30-1 in .32 S&W Long that I felt would be better for my mom in her current condition.

[@LionquestFitness]

Good choice for your mom. Steve sent the original grips with the gun and I'm going to try them next video.

[@marcthomas2482]

That is a nice looking revolver! I've thought about them, but the price (for a Taurus) always hangs me up. I know they do some extra work on them and I look forward to the future videos and your review. Great SLOW shooting, my friend! 😂😂

[@LionquestFitness]

🤣🤣🤣

[@oo7-ro6bu]

Watched this model fall apart on the TGC

[@LionquestFitness]

@@oo7-ro6bu What is the TGC?

[@oo7-ro6bu]

@@LionquestFitness the gun collective. TGC news

[@LionquestFitness]

@@oo7-ro6bu Thanks - I'm own my phone right now, but I'll put up a link later. Those cylinder screws are infamous for backing out after a good bit of shooting. To make it worse, if memory serves me right, there is a small spring under that screw that is easy to lose. I blue loctite the screws on my Taurus revolvers.

[@tylermorrison7051]

Keep showing the naysayers how it's done, Greg. As for the Pachmyr Renegade grips, it was a mixed bag for me. I had the checkered grips for an SP101 .38 (worn in an OWB bolster).The price was right, but I had to use a dremel to achieve a proper fit. Later on, i had an SP101 .357 (sometimes at 3 o'clock, sometimes in a pocket holster). This time, I purchased the smooth Pachnyr Renegade grips. After a period of time in the pocket, I noticed that the finish on the left side grip was wearing off a bit. I mostly attribute this to moisture, and the left side grip rubbing against the pocket (especially when seated). Could the Renegade grips have a cheaper finish? Who's to say? That said, the Renegade grips may serve most people well, depending on where they are worn, as long as there are no issues with the fit.

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks for that report. One of the reasons I never tried them were other reports like that such as the grips cracking or requiring effort to fit them. They do seem to grip well however.

[@matthewrobinson4323]

I have a Taurus 856 Ultra lite in my carry rotation, and I like it. It goes bang every time I press the trigger, and has never given me any problems. But for some reason, I just can't fall in love with it. I also have a Rock Island Armory m206, and m200, both of which are excellent guns, which I like a lot more than the Taurus, but my favorites are my Charter Arms Police Undercover and Charter Arms Undercover. For some reason, I gravitate towards the Undercover, even though it holds only 5 rounds instead of 6. Any chance of you reviewing the Undercover?

[@LionquestFitness]

I'll look into it. On and off I've considered it, but always talked myself out of it. Maybe it is time to change that.

[@jeffreyelliott622]

The only thing wrong with this video is that it was too short but a nice bull revolver anyway !!!

[@LionquestFitness]

Thanks Jeffery. There are a couple of more coming!

[@DanTheWolfman]

Nice Job, this is one I would love to get want to see a close up of trigger pulls and hear how smooth? Looks like he put an XS Dot on it which I got but doesn't fit the Rp63 so had to do the Ameriglo. Guess that means someday I'll have to get an 856. Very interested to here if it's POA/POI w 158 gr or closer w 130 grain stuff or close w those Remington 125+Ps let us know.

[@LionquestFitness]

Good ideas. Also I was hoping that sight would the Rossi that was supposed to be here from Bainbridge last week. 🤔

[@DanTheWolfman]

@@LionquestFitness You got to call man. With the Ameriglo only 125-130 stuff is on...158s are 3.5" High so not sure if you want to put the Ameriglo on...though the XS would work but it's just a bit too tall in material where the punch hole goes through...can maybe be drilled but my guy didn't want to attempt, could break the tritium vile too...so Ameriglo it is for the Rossi. I want either this Executive, or a two tone 856 UL

[@jasonashley4579]

I hope Taurus makes a 65 executive grade.

[@LionquestFitness]

That would be sweet.

[@DanTheWolfman]

Greg since it's 3" Relevant here is the Rossi Rp63 with HOP 158 JHC tested in my "Modern Meat Target" kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZmVqYSKZZ5qick Also here is the .38 Hydrashok Deep tested from 2" kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYG6n6p-iJ1ogLM

[@mrbottomfeeder]

🔫🔥🔥👍👍😎

[@fluffles9591]

This guy should be trumps bodyguard

[@guaporeturns9472]

so cringe

[@LionquestFitness]

@@guaporeturns9472 😅😅

[@LionquestFitness]

Younger and much better trained guys have that job.

[@fluffles9591]

@LionquestFitness kamala harris personal bodyguard was speaking gibberish while attacking another officer physically, other officers handcuffed him and admitted him to a hospital on april 24th

[@LionquestFitness]

@@fluffles9591 it was actually a her. I'm sure there are some very competent agents still with the Secret Service, but we're living in a progressive, woke nation where checking off the diversity boxes is more important than competency.

[@locksbog4270]

👍😃✌️💪🇺🇸❤️

[@dangerman007]

Armchair quarterbacks are so annoying. They forget one thing: you can't miss fast enough...

[@LionquestFitness]

🤣🤣🤣

[@johnnymccann5607]

everyone don't shoot the same. there may be a 60 year old woman who at those distances shoot groups like a golf ball. then a 24 year old with same gun and ammunition shoot fist and hand size groups. what's the difference? nothing in a self defense situation. if a person can under pressure put 5or6 shot in a area they can hide with there hand that's fine shooting for you but not for the criminal. lots of people shoot super fast and miss the target . the intentional shooter walks away to live another day. if we search history we will find some of the deadliest gun fighters we're intentional shooters. above average on the draw but super deadly accuracy under greatest of pressure. every shot with intention not luckup hits . assuming it's ok,I take it upon myself to tell quickly as possible the story of America's greatest gunfighter 99 percent of Americans never heard of. Jonathan r Davis a second lieutenant 1846- 1848 Mexican American War. December 19,1854 on the north fork of the American River in California Jonathan r Davis, James Mcdonald and Dr.doliver sparks prospecting for gold were ambush ed by a gang notorious for murdering and robbing miners. a shot rang out and James Macdonald fell from a shot to the head dead.dolivar sparks next fatality wounded. Jonathan Davis out in the open drew his two cap and ball revolvers and bullets all around him he killed 10 bandits, grabbed the shotgun of Mcdonald shooting one then charged another bandit killing him with his hunting knife. then screaming at one or two lift, come on boys and get some of this which they ran in fear . this was all documented at a inquest and witnessed by outher miners . of the 13 or 14 members of murderers 1 Frenchman, 2 Americans, 2 British, Mexican, 4 Australians. 7were members of the notorious Sidney duck gang of theifs and killers. Jonathan r Davis was known as a intentional man , not afraid under extreme circumstances and a expert marksman but no mention of being a quick draw artist, but it's fair to believe he was far faster than the average. there are many outher intentional shooters normally history didn't recognize or record but there to be found. I think there worth finding. thank you Greg for allowing this long comment as I believe it beneficial in the study of self defense. papa wishing you well 😊

[@LionquestFitness]

I remember watching a KZbin video about Davis. A very inspiring story of courage and deliberation. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h4ukhqecmrOJbdk Wild West Extravaganza is a great channel BTW.

[@yuvgotubekidding]

Very interested in this model but haven’t seen one in person. Was wondering about the fit and finish. Is it premium or are the parts ill fitting and blemished. I’ve learned my lesson about buying online without physically inspecting an expensive piece. Also have the same Pacmyr grips on my Taurus 605 2 inch. It really fits my hand well. Very happy with that upgrade. 🫡🇺🇸😎

[@LionquestFitness]

The fit and finish is very good on this one. I'll talk more about it in the next video.