The current Taurus 38 Special price offers incredible value for buyers seeking affordable self defense and target shooting options. A brand new Taurus revolver chambered in this caliber typically ranges from $319.99 for a standard Model 856 up to $401.99 for the full size Model 82. Shoppers looking for used handguns can frequently find classic Model 85 revolvers averaging around $252.00 in good condition. Ammunition costs remain highly accessible with standard target loads priced between $0.42 and $0.55 per round. Premium defensive hollow point ammunition costs more and usually sits around $1.28 per shot. Knowing these baseline prices will help you secure the best deal on your next firearm and range supplies.
Taurus 38 Special Revolver Price
| Taurus 38 Special Revolver | Manufacturer | Barrel Length | MSRP | Current Retail Price |
| Model 856 Standard | Taurus | 2 in | $379.00 | $319.99 |
| Model 856 Ultra-Lite | Taurus | 2 in | $399.00 | $329.99 |
| Model 856 Defender | Taurus | 3 in | $419.00 | $349.99 |
| Model 82 Standard | Taurus | 4 in | $479.00 | $401.99 |
| Model 85 (Used) | Taurus | 2 in | N/A | $252.02 |
Taurus 38 Special Ammo Price
| 38 Special Load | Bullet Weight | Box Size | Price | Price Per Round |
| Speer Lawman TMJ | 158 grain | 1000 | $420.00 | $0.42 |
| Magtech LFN Cowboy | 125 grain | 50 | $26.00 | $0.52 |
| Sellier & Bellot LRN | 158 grain | 50 | $26.99 | $0.54 |
| Winchester USA FMJ | 130 grain | 100 | $55.00 | $0.55 |
| Federal Punch JHP | 120 grain | 20 | $25.59 | $1.28 |
Based on current retail listings, the lowest price found for a functional revolver is $252.02 for a used Taurus Model 85. The highest price found among standard models is the full size Taurus Model 82 at $401.99. The typical price range for a brand new concealed carry model like the 856 is comfortably between $319.99 and $349.99.
For ammunition, the lowest current price is $420.00 for a bulk case of 1000 Speer Lawman rounds, translating to $0.42 per round. Premium defensive loads like the Federal Punch represent the highest price found at $25.59 per box of 20, which equals $1.28 per round.
Prices vary primarily based on frame materials and barrel lengths. The standard Model 856 uses an affordable steel frame, while the Ultra-Lite version utilizes aluminum to reduce weight, adding a slight premium to the cost. The three inch Defender and four inch Model 82 require more raw materials and retail for higher amounts. Ammunition prices fluctuate based on projectile design, with basic lead round nose bullets being much cheaper to manufacture than jacketed hollow points designed for barrier penetration.
How Much Does Taurus 38 Special Cost?
Entering the concealed carry or home defense market with a Taurus revolver requires a very modest budget. The initial firearm purchase will typically cost you around $320.00 for a new compact revolver. If you add a quality holster, a cleaning kit, and a few boxes of defensive ammunition, your total setup will cost roughly $450.00. This makes it significantly less expensive than premium domestic revolvers, allowing buyers to allocate more funds toward practice ammunition.
Taurus 38 Special Ammo Price Per Round
When calculating your ongoing training expenses, breaking down the cost per round is the most effective metric.
- Bulk Target FMJ: $0.42 to $0.50 per round.
- Standard Commercial LRN: $0.52 to $0.55 per round.
- Cowboy Action Loads: $0.52 to $0.56 per round.
- Premium Defensive JHP: $1.25 to $1.37 per round.
Because this caliber is incredibly popular worldwide, practice ammunition remains highly affordable and is manufactured by almost every major ammunition brand.
Taurus 38 Special New vs Used Price
Buying a used Taurus is a practical strategy, but because the new retail prices are already very low, the savings margin is relatively small.
- New Models: Average around $319.99 to $401.99 depending on the exact frame and configuration.
- Private Party Used: Average around $246.00 to $252.00 for standard models like the 856 and 85 in very good condition.
- Trade In Values: Dealers typically offer around $160.00 for standard used models on trade.
Because these handguns are built from heavy steel or solid aluminum, a well maintained used model will function properly for years, making the used market a viable option if you are on a strict budget.
Taurus 38 Special Price Compared With Alternatives
If you are shopping for a budget friendly revolver, it is helpful to see how Taurus compares to other brands on the market.
| Product | Example | Retail Price | Price Per Round If Applicable |
| Taurus 38 Special | Model 856 2 inch | $319.99 | N/A |
| Rock Island | M206 2 inch | $269.99 | N/A |
| Charter Arms | Undercover 2 inch | $289.00 | N/A |
| Smith & Wesson | Model 642 1.88 inch | $495.99 | N/A |
Taurus sits at a highly competitive tier in the revolver market. It is slightly more expensive than imported Rock Island models, but it heavily undercuts major domestic brands like Smith & Wesson. This lower price point coupled with a six round capacity makes it an incredibly popular choice for first time buyers.
What Affects The Price?
Several variables dictate what you will pay at checkout for a Taurus revolver and ammunition.
- Model Generation: The older Model 85 is mostly relegated to the used market, making it cheaper than the modern Model 856.
- Capacity: The newer Model 856 holds six rounds instead of five, adding structural value over older five shot models.
- Frame Material: Standard steel models are cheaper to produce than the Ultra-Lite aluminum variants.
- Ammunition Components: Solid lead round nose bullets are the cheapest to manufacture, while specialized expanding hollow points require more copper and tighter engineering tolerances.
Availability
Taurus operates massive production facilities, making their revolvers highly accessible. Availability is outstanding across all major online retailers and local gun shops. Because the 856 series is extremely popular, finding a base model is incredibly easy. Ammunition for this caliber is also heavily stocked worldwide in large volumes.
Pros And Cons
Taurus 38 Special Price Pros
- Incredible value, offering a reliable defensive revolver well under $350.00.
- The Model 856 provides a six round capacity for a lower price than many five round competitors.
- Practice ammunition is incredibly affordable compared to magnum calibers.
- Excellent lifetime repair policy provides peace of mind for budget buyers.
Taurus 38 Special Price Cons
- Resale value on the private market is relatively low compared to premium brands.
- The overall fit, finish, and trigger pull are rougher than more expensive American made handguns.
- Trade in values are extremely low if you decide to upgrade your firearm later.
Taurus 38 Special Price: Final Answer
The typical price range for a new Taurus 38 Special revolver is between $319.99 and $401.99 depending on the exact model. The lowest researched price for a functional used model is $252.02 for the classic Model 85. The highest price found among standard production models is $401.99 for the full size Model 82.
For ammunition, expect a typical price per round around $0.42 to $0.55 for practice and up to $1.28 for premium defensive loads. All pricing was sourced from live market data to ensure accuracy.
| Category | Current Finding | Explanation |
| Typical Revolver Price | $319.99 to $401.99 | Covers the vast majority of standard compact and mid size models. |
| Lowest Price Found | $252.02 | Used Model 85 showing standard cosmetic wear. |
| Highest Price Found | $401.99 | Brand new Model 82 four inch revolver. |
| Typical Price Per Round | $0.42 to $0.55 | Standard commercial FMJ or LRN practice ammunition. |
| Availability | High | Standard models and ammo are heavily stocked at most retailers. |
| Value | Excellent | Affordable manufacturing that delivers reliable defense. |
FAQs
How much does a Taurus 38 Special cost?
A brand new model typically costs between $319.99 and $401.99, while used models average around $252.00.
What is the price of 38 Special ammo?
A box of 50 rounds generally costs between $26.00 for basic practice ammunition and over $25.00 for a box of 20 premium defensive loads.
How much does 38 Special ammo cost per round?
You can expect to pay around $0.42 to $0.55 for bulk practice ammo and $1.25 to $1.37 for premium hollow points.
How much is a Taurus Model 856?
New Model 856 revolvers typically retail for around $319.99 for the standard version and $329.99 for the Ultra-Lite version.
What is the cheapest Taurus 38 Special revolver?
The standard steel framed Model 856 is typically the most affordable new option in their catalog.
Is a Taurus 38 Special a good budget gun?
Yes, Taurus revolvers are widely considered highly reliable budget options that offer excellent value for the money.
How much is a used Taurus Model 85?
Used Model 85 revolvers average around $252.00 on the private market.
Why is the Taurus 856 so cheap?
They are mass produced in high volumes and utilize utilitarian finishes to keep production costs minimal.
Is 38 Special ammo easy to find?
Yes, due to its massive historical popularity, it is heavily stocked by nearly all major online ammunition retailers.
Can I find a Taurus 38 Special under $300.00?
Yes, but you will almost exclusively be looking at well worn used models or private party sales.
Does the Taurus Model 82 cost more than the 856?
Yes, the Model 82 features a larger frame and longer barrel, frequently pushing the retail price over $401.00.
Is it worth buying a new Taurus over a used one?
Because the retail price of a new model is often only $70.00 more than a used model, buying brand new is usually the better value to ensure you get a pristine firearm.