Glad I watched your video! I found it very informative and it reassured me that I made a good purchase with the RIA M206. You made reasonable comparisons of both weapons.
This has actually been the subject of my search this summer. I wanted a Taurus, but I was back and forth between the 2 and 3 inch barrels. I already have an RIA M200 and love it, but I wanted the M206 to have a snubbie back in the rotation. RIA won when I found a barely used M206 DAO with a bobbed hammer for two bills. I'm loving it. I will still pick up a Taurus (now definitely the 3" for comparison purposes) and shoot the stuffing out of both of them. Great comparison video!
I'm really glad you made this video. I have both a Taurus 856 Ultra Lite and a Rock Island Armory m 206, and while the 856 is a more refined weapon, the Rock Island is like a loveable puppy that isn't quite house-broken, and drools. I flat out love my m 206, and am cooly find of my 856. It's okay, but I can't really say I love it. Is there anything wrong with it? No. It's a fine gun. Even approaching excellent. But the m 206 is just loveable. I really can't even explain it.
Thank you very much!! I’d never get rid of either of them. They are both enjoyable to shoot. I’m going to put a bobbed hammer in my 206 soon. Have never had one before so figured why not.
@@sacrificialscience4405 My first m 206 was the bobbed hammer model. I really liked it, but wanted to give the da/sa a try, do my current one has the conventional spurred hammer. I bought my first one in November 2016 (Black Friday sale for $251.00), and it did have some lock up problems. I contacted Armscor, who told me to send it in, but I told them I wanted to wait so that I could open it for Christmas. They told me to send it in and they'd prioritize and have it back to me in time for Christmas. They did!!! 😀. I couldn't be more pleased. Much later I sent it in for another issue, and they replaced it without charge. Again, I couldn't be happier with them or with the gun. Later I sold it to a friend for $250.00, and bought my current one for $300.00. I've had no problems whatsoever with this one. Btw, the owner's manual says you can run + p, but not a steady diet.
@@sacrificialscience4405 The hammer spur is so long on the Rock Island you could cut it off at the end of the serrations and still have a decent size hammer. I might try that.
@@maxmccain8950 I bobbed the hammer from my blown up 206. Was going to do a video on it, but can’t make videos showing how to modify guns now. Still might put it on and see how I like it.
I love my m206. The two guns were both high on my list. I really liked the stainless 856 but overall I went with m206 cause I just love the throwback wood grips!!!
Taurus has stepped up in the last few years. Better quality control for sure. I remember when the cylinders would rattle in their revolvers. Nice comparison!
I have one of each and love them both! I’m partial to my 856 just because I got a version in tungsten metal with walnut grips. It’s gorgeous. Both are great to shoot!
I had a taurus 856 ultralight in Matt stainless that pistol was extremely accurate little 2 inch stuby and I could hit 5 inch plates at 15 yards without hardly aiming it it was so accurate there's no way I would put that Rock Island armory 38 over it thanks for the video
Good video sir I plan to purchase the rock island 206 because if you can by a dependable firearm for under $250 bucks buy it. But the gun would pick and 1 of guns i pocket carry is taurus 856, I've carried taurus snubbies since the late 80s and have never bought a bad one. I can't say that about ruger.
My 856 UL was damn near $500 after shipping so I am speaking as someone that had steep buyers remorse. It was during the shortages but I was not walking my essential ass around unprotected. In the range I fired +P 158g FMJ balls (again, options were limited, I had to book it across town for the last box of .38 ammo anyone knew about) so I only shot 12 rounds...after my reload I let her have it. BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA....It was love. The quickness of this Taurus for followups with +P is absolutely smooth and unreal. Its extremely satisfying. You dont even need the sights with man shaped targets at max indoor ranges. Went home and the next day a pocket holster was laying in my driveway, I still have it. If I had the option, I would still go Taurus. When you think about how in demand the cheapest damned thing is, you realize how its always overpriced for what youre getting. Yeah its basically the same thing as all the others...but Taurus really did something special here. (no pun intended)
@@sacrificialscience4405 Thanks for reply, good morning aswell. Yeah everything cheap was sold out everywhere att...mine was the blue/black finish but it matches my motorcycle and my car which was just happenstance...It was the last one, I also didnt have alot of car color choices either...it was Carribean or Marshmallow LOL I dont mind rocking the blue and black.
I would buy either one. My local gun store has a Taurus 856 for $270.00. I am going to get one today. I have seen the Rock Island in the gun store in the past but was not looking to buy at that time. I do not feel in danger every time I leave the house so either one of these in the ready would be fine. Good video. Just happened across your site and will watch more of your videos. Thanks.
I just picked up a used 856 two days for $196 total, in my hands. I haven’t had a chance to shoot it. Im hoping its as good as im expecting. Nice video, just subscribed
I've had both. What won it out for the Taurus was speed loader avalibility. The speed loaders for the Model 10 S&W will fit the Taurus 856 and 82, no problem!
I own the Taurus and a M200 RIA revolver they are Both good guns price for me was not an Issue I just liked the guns they are Keepers for me!...We are Living in a great time for inexpensive quality guns now!!😃
I want to like the Taurus revolvers because they are more refined like you said and look so much better. but your vids proving the rock island is so well made/durable and their customer service and company seem like really good people! It’s a tough decision
@@sacrificialscience4405 yes it certainly feels that way in the hand lol like someone else said too tho would be super interesting to see what it takes for the taurus to blow up in comparison! Lol 😂
My brand new RIA model 200-38 special revolver had to go back for a timing issue as soon as I got it home. They paid shipping both ways, covered repair and had the gun back to me in 2 weeks. They do have really good customer service.
I have both have a few more rounds in the taurus love them both they are both really accurate paid about the same as you said i would recommend the taurus and the rock island for a good backup love them both will not part with either one of them
I have come to love the Taurus products at the moment I own 3 Taurus firearms the 856 38 special, a g2c 40, and I was lucky enough to find one of the Ts9s I have had great service from all 3 with no complaints. Taurus make a quality product which is also budget friendly.
I went to go buy the RIA M206 and I knew they range from $225 to $250 from the information you provided...But... They were also selling a NiB Taurus 856 +p with the bobbed hammer for $250. It was your video that informed me about the 856 being at $250 being a great deal, so I pulled the trigger on it. Mine is the same color as yours and I can't wait to bring it to the range this week. Any tips or mods you recommend?
I’m glad you were able to get a good deal on one! The best advice that I can give is buy some snap caps and dry fire the hell out of it. Really helps work the trigger in.
The Taurus is thinner. It also has a better smaller hammer. The RIA M-206 is quite chunky, and has a huge hammer that can bite you. The Taurus has many after market grips available. VZ, Pachmayr, and Altamont. The RIA 206 Has zero after market grips available, absolutely none. The Taurus has a smaller front site. That makes it easier to pull from a pocket. The RIA. Has a huge site. That could make it more difficult to pull out of a pocket. The Taurus 856 usually are not perfect accuracy. most I've seen shoot low and to the left. The RIA M-206 usually are quite accurate. Usually a snub nose revolver is an up close, and personal, self-protection gun. Pro's vs cons. The Taurus, wins for most. I paid, $328.00 out the door for my Taurus 856. The RIA. M-206 was going for $256.00 before tax. I'm ordering a Galloway Precision, Spring kit tomorrow. That's currently going for $15.50 I have replaced my Stock rubber grips with the Smooth, Rosewood grips from Pachmayr. Those ran me close to $45.00 from Amazon. I have large hands, and those grips fit my hand perfectly. I can't recommend them enough.
@@garageguy879 Good to know. I don't know what took so long for someone to make replacement grips for those. I wonder if anyone has ever got around to making up replacement grips for the Windicator 357's. I don't own one but have seen a ton of reviews on them and I believe they're decent guns for the money. Thanks for the comment, it's greatly appreciated. Peace..
I have a m206 and I loaded by accident a CCI 357 magnum aluminum case round that was mixed in with my 38spl. I only knew because it had a harsher recoil and louder report. Have you experienced anything like this? I'm about to take a video of it fitting in the cylinder and it firing because I cannot find a video of what I experienced. And so far it's only this particular brand of 357, all others won't fit flush in the cylinder.
Install a set of Galloway Precision springs in that 856, you'll be amazed at the difference with no light strikes. My 856 Defender 3" came with houge grips plus a ccw grip as well as an extra front sight.
I don't own either one. I did buy a steel frame Taurus 605, .357 magnum. It is the same frame as the 856 but since it is a 5-shot it can handle .357. It is a good gun and shoots to pount of aim with both 125 grain Winchester .38 Special + P jhp, and 147 grain Federal .38 Special +P+ cjhs and as far as I can tell with Wolf, 158 grain .357 magnum jhp. That rubber grips are pretty good even with .357 magnums but I carry .38 special +p ammo in it because I don't fancy blowing my eardrums out if I have to light off a round or two indoors or in a vehicle. I dry fired it with snap caps about 1,000 times which smoothed up the trigger pretty good. Its been a good little gun so far (about 10 months).
I just went to look at buying one of these today the Taurus is $399 at my local shop and the Rock Island is $265 so I went with Rock Island being in California I have a 10 waiting period so I will see if it shoots good in 10 days lol thanks for video have great day
Thanks for the review. I’ve been thinking about getting a revolver. I am on a budget and have had my eye on the Taurus 856. After watching your review I’m probably eventually gonna get the Taurus.
Pachmayr compact and gripper grips for colt d frame will fit the RIA M206 and M200 with a slight gap at the front of the grip but you can use a dremel to work it down to close the gap. Colt d frame wood grips can be made to fit again by using a dremel tool.
I have an 856 that I need more trigger time with, but the trigger on it is shockingly good, it's stainless, and the particular gun I got actually was wearing a nice set of walnut grips out of the box (UPC code 725327942375) and it did also have the regular Taurus rubber grip in the box. Stainless, the grip, and taxes brought the price to just over 400 total. The only knock against it is that I would prefer .32 for carry...so I plan on getting a stainless Taurus 327! If Armscor makes a .32 version of the M206, I'll jump on that wagon too!
I have an LCR in .327 and it is a hoot. .32 Long is a peach in it, .32 H&R is perfect for snubby defense imo, and .327 is ROWDY. Honestly a bit too much for me in the Federal load I tried. The Taurus might tame that a bit with the ten extra oz it has over the LCR, but I mostly want to have another .32 at a good price that will do well on the belt.
Seeing as how these are self defense revolvers, do you have any experience with speed loaders on them? I cant seem to get a straight answer. Some people say the HKS speed loader will work on the Rock Island, and the next comment is someone saying they dont work. A video would be very helpful if you can clear this up, since you have both revolvers. Thanks for reading.
Boaty McBoatface Can't conceal bulky speed loaders very well so I use Bianchi speed strips that lay flat in the pocket if I need a reload. Maybe not as fast as a speed loader but they are fast enough with practice.
I live in Massachusetts and wanted the 206 ,they are not legal for some reason. Im going to try to get a taurus i see it is on the ok list for mass. I dont have a revolver and would like to try one out before i spend $6-7'-8 h on a fancy one .
I bought a M206 on a whim mainly because I never had a double action revolver. The HKS DS speed loaders are compatible. Working on good kydex iwb holster choices as I’m not a fan of the flimsy nylon stuff on the market. I’m 250 rounds in. It seems to be a good shooter. I’ll be bobbing my hammer and probably going on a revolver jag for a while.
I've got a Taurus judge, and it may just be mine, but it has problems. I get random lock ups when pulling the trigger in double action, and when firing in single action the hammer randomly does not lock back. it just snaps right back. id say it has one of these issues about 4-5 percent of the time
Bought an M206. Opened the box at the store, noticed right away that the hammer 4 times out of 6 wouldn't cock all the way back. That's with S/A and D/A. It got bound up and no amount of force would cock it back, until you pressed on the left side of the cylinder inward. Cylinder felt very sloppy. I called RIA while still at the bullshit FFL transfer for a shipping label. Sent it in, we'll see what happens. I would say if you need a gun right away, don't buy the Rock Island, you might have to wait a month or whatever it is for them to maybe fix it, maybe not. For me this is an extra gun to toss around the truck or wherever.
The one they had in the display was messed up as well when I got my first one. Seems to be a common issue. But when you get a good one, you got a nice little pistol.
I've gone back to carrying revolvers. I carry 2. Both guns in the vid will reliably go bang, just like my S&W j-frames but are not heirloom quality. I prefer the Taurus because I have used their revolvers for decades. So carrying 2 and employing New York reloads, I am much less concerned about dumping one to the deck than I would a Detective Special, a Chief's Special, a Rhino, etc.. After I put a few rounds through the 206 I might consider it for CCW but for now it's great for a tool box, tackle box, glove box beater gun. It fills that role very well.
These guns are nice for that reason. I wouldn’t want to carry any gun that I would want to pass down due to losing it if there were an emergency and it had to be used. These cheaper revolvers fit that bill really well.
I was curious about the M206 when it first came out and felt of a lot of them and the triggers weren’t good. I didn’t get one. Then the 856 came out and I got one. It’s good to go.
I don’t own either of these guns but have shot both. They’re both sold guns (for the price). That’s about all I have to say about that👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸 I do own the Taurus 605 Defender 3”/357 Mag. It’s a beauty, I’d bet my life with it any day of the week!
My favorite gun makers are Ruger then Taurus. Id take either one of these weapons as they would be for self defense only. But of course +P would be better...
Are you talking about checking the trigger pull weight on double action? My gauge only goes to 8 pounds. The double action pull on both are higher than that.
I already have the Taurus 605 Poly 2", but I like revolvers and prefer them for ccw, and I've had my eye on BOTH of these guns and tbh I don't see major flaws in either so its really a matter of which I find at a cheaper price when I actually decide to get one............if they're the same price, I'd go w/the Taurus just b/c of the +P
Well you can change out grips so the shooting comparison might have been due to the smaller grip on the 856 since you said you do better with larger grips. My three inch 856 came with Hogue grips that are larger than the little standard Taurus grips that also came with the revolver. It also came with a standard dot front sight extra with the Ameriglo Tritium day/night front sight already on the revolver. Mine is stainless matte black. The 856 is +P rated and that is huge since it can handle stout loads if need be. I also like the shorter profile hammer spur on the 856 better than the longer spur on the 206. My 856 is the three inch, not the two inch but my 856 is a replacement for my old model 85 that went to my sister. I made the choice between the two recently and picked the 856 over the 206 that I was also looking over at that time. I agree. We are all on the same 2A team. Freedom. No need to put anyone down for getting any gun they choose. Some gun is better than no gun. Thanks for sharing.
@@sacrificialscience4405 I have Tritium day/night sights on both the 856 and the SIG P365 and yes their glow is a comfort at night and easy to pick up. I would not say the Tritiums are necessary at night with a backup flashlight if its needed but the Tritiums do spoil you. Other pistols I have are white dot sights and those are better at night than black on black sights. Yes I like the black finish on the stainless of the 856. Thanks.
I own both of these. I'd say that the main difference between the two is that the Taurus is a reasonably priced no-frills revolver, and the RIA M206 is a poorly-made dangerous piece of junk. I bought the M206 three months ago, and it had two serious defects out of the box. The revolver was out of time on two chambers in DA mode, and failed to ignite over half of the cartridges I tried firing in it in SA mode. It had a third, less serious fault, which was that the cylinder release catch was so crudely finished that it would bind up in the retracted position. I fixed this myself by working the catch back and forth a few hundred times to smooth it out. I returned it to Armscor hoping for a refund, but they instead decided to "repair" it and send it back to me. I received it back about two weeks ago, and it still had the exact same timing problem, despite the formfilled out by the gunsmith saying he had fixed it. I don't know whether the failure to ignite cartridges problem was fixed, because it would be dangerous to attempt to fire the gun. I sent it back to them last week, so I guess we'll see what happens. Here is the video I made to show them that the fault is still present: th-cam.com/video/BjCobt4PKP0/w-d-xo.html It has cost them $26 each way to ship it, so at this point they have already paid $78 ($104 if they ship it back to me again), plus whatever they paid their "gunsmith" to pretend to fix it. I don't know why they don't just give me my money back instead of insisting on me keeping a gun I don't want. If you're thinking of buying a RIA/Armscor revolver and you've read this far, PLEASE learn from my mistake and don't buy it. The construction is really rough, and your chances of getting a bad one are very high. If you do get a bad one, your only recourse is their incompetent gunsmiths that don't even know how to perform a basic function check. The Taurus costs like $50 more, but is so much better in every way.
@@matthewrobinson4323 I'm amazed that they get such good reviews. When I was trying to get the cylinder release to stop binding up, I removed the side plate so I could apply grease directly to the parts inside. I couldn't believe how rough the machining was - it looked like someone had used an angle grinder on it. I can't believe these things work at all, let alone get decent reviews.
@@sacrificialscience4405 Thanks, but I'm not going to hold my breath, since I already returned it once with no luck. I own a lot of guns, and have never had an experience like this before. I deeply regret buying this gun, it's just been a months-long headache.
Im pretty sure u were very much just unfortunate enough to get a really bad piece, most people that i know who owns it had a really good experience with their m206 and those who DID have problems got theirs completely replaced for free in like a week.
It is not a Mutual 206. That means model 206. Mutual’s are usually refer to an insurance companies and then Mutual insurance company is owned by the people that buy their products. If you have a Rock Island you do not own part of the company it’s a model 206. And get to the point on your presentation they keep on floundering.
Nope. What I meant by point of aim, is the sights lined up and where the bullet makes impact. Secondly, the Taurus is lighter than the M206. Even the all steel version.
@@sacrificialscience4405 Yeah I guess just the Taurus name scares me away, but I'm sure they are much better than many years ago. My rock island is pretty impressive for the money. I bet the Taurus is a nice one too.
@@sacrificialscience4405 I've been looking for all steel frame spurless 6 shot snub 38 special. not a whole lot of choices out there. considering the spurless m206 but looking at all options 1st. (I already have the m206 with spur)
@@adenval7 I have seen the spurless 206’s pop up from time to time. I’ve thought about bobbing my extra 206 hammer for snag free drawing. If I do, I’ll post a video on it
@@sacrificialscience4405 honestly I'd consider a spurless TAURUS 856 just to get some variety. what do you think? should I get one over the spurless m206?
My 38/357 6 inch barrel I shoot golf balls @100 yards, I promise you that rock island won't do it. Now when go to gun shop if they say Rock island I say heck no.
I was really impressed with the rock island. It shoots surprisingly well for such a compact gun
I fully agree
Love my Taurus but picking up my Rock Island tomorrow. Thanks for the video!
Both are great choices
Glad I watched your video! I found it very informative and it reassured me that I made a good purchase with the RIA M206. You made reasonable comparisons of both weapons.
Thank you very much! The M206 is great revolver. I trust it 100% to use in a life or death situation. Thank you for watching.
This has actually been the subject of my search this summer. I wanted a Taurus, but I was back and forth between the 2 and 3 inch barrels. I already have an RIA M200 and love it, but I wanted the M206 to have a snubbie back in the rotation. RIA won when I found a barely used M206 DAO with a bobbed hammer for two bills. I'm loving it. I will still pick up a Taurus (now definitely the 3" for comparison purposes) and shoot the stuffing out of both of them. Great comparison video!
Thanks Marc! I saw that Taurus just came out with a new 856. Has a 3 inch barrel. They call it the Executive Grade. Might be worth checking out.
Thanks for your post. I have the Taurus 856 and the Rock Island m206 and I'm happy with both.
Thank you! Both are solid revolvers.
@@sacrificialscience4405 Thank you!
I'm really glad you made this video. I have both a Taurus 856 Ultra Lite and a Rock Island Armory m 206, and while the 856 is a more refined weapon, the Rock Island is like a loveable puppy that isn't quite house-broken, and drools. I flat out love my m 206, and am cooly find of my 856. It's okay, but I can't really say I love it. Is there anything wrong with it? No. It's a fine gun. Even approaching excellent. But the m 206 is just loveable. I really can't even explain it.
Thank you very much!! I’d never get rid of either of them. They are both enjoyable to shoot. I’m going to put a bobbed hammer in my 206 soon. Have never had one before so figured why not.
@@sacrificialscience4405 My first m 206 was the bobbed hammer model. I really liked it, but wanted to give the da/sa a try, do my current one has the conventional spurred hammer. I bought my first one in November 2016 (Black Friday sale for $251.00), and it did have some lock up problems. I contacted Armscor, who told me to send it in, but I told them I wanted to wait so that I could open it for Christmas. They told me to send it in and they'd prioritize and have it back to me in time for Christmas. They did!!! 😀. I couldn't be more pleased. Much later I sent it in for another issue, and they replaced it without charge. Again, I couldn't be happier with them or with the gun. Later I sold it to a friend for $250.00, and bought my current one for $300.00. I've had no problems whatsoever with this one.
Btw, the owner's manual says you can run + p, but not a steady diet.
@@sacrificialscience4405 The hammer spur is so long on the Rock Island you could cut it off at the end of the serrations and still have a decent size hammer. I might try that.
@@maxmccain8950 I bobbed the hammer from my blown up 206. Was going to do a video on it, but can’t make videos showing how to modify guns now. Still might put it on and see how I like it.
How did you find your ultralight? I've been looking for one for the past 2 1/2 years?
I love my m206. The two guns were both high on my list. I really liked the stainless 856 but overall I went with m206 cause I just love the throwback wood grips!!!
I like that it has the option of both. The stainless looks nice too, but I feel the black finish is more practical for carry.
@@sacrificialscience4405 it’s the M206 big brother 3-4 inc barrel
@@mortykatz2236 I’ll have to check one out if I see one
Been looking at both for months and can’t decide. Fathers Day around the corner, I’m just going to get both lol. Great video.
Thank you!! That’s what I did. Lol. Both are good shooting little revolvers
Taurus has stepped up in the last few years. Better quality control for sure. I remember when the cylinders would rattle in their revolvers. Nice comparison!
Thank you! I really like the 856
I have one of each and love them both! I’m partial to my 856 just because I got a version in tungsten metal with walnut grips. It’s gorgeous. Both are great to shoot!
That sounds like a really good looking revolver. It’s hard to beat either one for the money. Thank you for watching.
I had a taurus 856 ultralight in Matt stainless that pistol was extremely accurate little 2 inch stuby and I could hit 5 inch plates at 15 yards without hardly aiming it it was so accurate there's no way I would put that Rock Island armory 38 over it thanks for the video
Good video sir
I plan to purchase the rock island 206 because if you can by a dependable firearm for under $250 bucks buy it. But the gun would pick and 1 of guns i pocket carry is taurus 856, I've carried taurus snubbies since the late 80s and have never bought a bad one. I can't say that about ruger.
Thank you very much! I feel the same way. And Ruger is not on my list for revolvers anymore. Have had too many issues.
I was looking at both of these a month back, and I went with the Taurus because of the +P capability. I also got the concealed hammer version (DAO).
Good choice! I might have to add a DAO to the arsenal as well
Rock island says their revolvers are rated for "limited use" with plus p ammo.
My 856 UL was damn near $500 after shipping so I am speaking as someone that had steep buyers remorse. It was during the shortages but I was not walking my essential ass around unprotected. In the range I fired +P 158g FMJ balls (again, options were limited, I had to book it across town for the last box of .38 ammo anyone knew about) so I only shot 12 rounds...after my reload I let her have it. BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA BLA....It was love. The quickness of this Taurus for followups with +P is absolutely smooth and unreal. Its extremely satisfying. You dont even need the sights with man shaped targets at max indoor ranges. Went home and the next day a pocket holster was laying in my driveway, I still have it.
If I had the option, I would still go Taurus. When you think about how in demand the cheapest damned thing is, you realize how its always overpriced for what youre getting. Yeah its basically the same thing as all the others...but Taurus really did something special here. (no pun intended)
Too bad you had to pay so much. But makes for a good story and you have one hell of a pocket pistol.
@@sacrificialscience4405 Thanks for reply, good morning aswell. Yeah everything cheap was sold out everywhere att...mine was the blue/black finish but it matches my motorcycle and my car which was just happenstance...It was the last one, I also didnt have alot of car color choices either...it was Carribean or Marshmallow LOL
I dont mind rocking the blue and black.
I would buy either one. My local gun store has a Taurus 856 for $270.00.
I am going to get one today. I have seen the Rock Island in the gun store in the past
but was not looking to buy at that time. I do not feel in danger every time I leave the house so either one of these in the ready would be fine.
Good video. Just happened across your site and will watch more of your videos.
Thanks.
Thank you very much for watching! I hope you enjoy your 856 as much as I have. And that’s a good price on that Taurus.
I just picked up a used 856 two days for $196 total, in my hands. I haven’t had a chance to shoot it.
Im hoping its as good as im expecting. Nice video, just subscribed
Based on reputation for customer service I am leaning RIA. I am planning to get the 4".
The M200 is a good option as well.
I've had both. What won it out for the Taurus was speed loader avalibility. The speed loaders for the Model 10 S&W will fit the Taurus 856 and 82, no problem!
That’s true. I believe the 10-A from HKS fits the 856
@@Foxtrotechogolfcharlie I’ve noticed the same as well. The 605 is nice. I’ve got the standard and poly mode.
I own the Taurus and a M200 RIA revolver they are Both good guns price for me was not an Issue I just liked the guns they are Keepers for me!...We are Living in a great time for inexpensive quality guns now!!😃
Is one of them Levers a 45-70 in the background? Great channel bro I'm subbed!
Yes it is! The other is a 44 mag. Thanks for the sub!!
I want to like the Taurus revolvers because they are more refined like you said and look so much better. but your vids proving the rock island is so well made/durable and their customer service and company seem like really good people! It’s a tough decision
I do understand. The Rock Island is built like a tank.
@@sacrificialscience4405 yes it certainly feels that way in the hand lol like someone else said too tho would be super interesting to see what it takes for the taurus to blow up in comparison! Lol 😂
I have both. Of the two, I like the Rock Island better.
My brand new RIA model 200-38 special revolver had to go back for a timing issue as soon as I got it home. They paid shipping both ways, covered repair and had the gun back to me in 2 weeks. They do have really good customer service.
Keep it going! Doing the lord's work
A 3” 856 in steel and a 2” 856 in lite aluminum alloy is a nice HD & carry combo.
Sounds like it. I’ve shot the 3 inch. Really liked it.
I have big hands and I bought a Rock Island and love zero problems
Great review. Any chance of doing a comparison of either of those revolvers against a Charter Arms revolver? Thinking about getting a Mag Pug .357/.38
Thank you very much!! I might if I can find a deal on one. That’s a good idea. 👍🏼
I have no complaints in my rock island no complaints in the about 3 years i have owned it.
I have both have a few more rounds in the taurus love them both they are both really accurate paid about the same as you said i would recommend the taurus and the rock island for a good backup love them both will not part with either one of them
Both very good options if your on a budget. Or just want an affordable plinker.
I appreciate this comment. I own the taurus. Like you said, picking up both I barely noticed a difference.
I also like both of these firearms... I don't currently own either, but am planning to acquire both... I really like both companies as well...
Me too! Hopefully you can pick them up soon.
I have come to love the Taurus products at the moment I own 3 Taurus firearms the 856 38 special, a g2c 40, and I was lucky enough to find one of the Ts9s I have had great service from all 3 with no complaints. Taurus make a quality product which is also budget friendly.
@@williamswafford5887 I don’t have much experience with their semi autos, but have quite a few of their revolvers. All solid guns so far.
Thanks for the upload.Ive been researching budget revolvers and plan on buying a Taurus 856 defender.
Great choice! I would recommend getting snap caps and dry firing it. Really helps smooth it up.
I went to go buy the RIA M206 and I knew they range from $225 to $250 from the information you provided...But... They were also selling a NiB Taurus 856 +p with the bobbed hammer for $250. It was your video that informed me about the 856 being at $250 being a great deal, so I pulled the trigger on it. Mine is the same color as yours and I can't wait to bring it to the range this week. Any tips or mods you recommend?
I’m glad you were able to get a good deal on one! The best advice that I can give is buy some snap caps and dry fire the hell out of it. Really helps work the trigger in.
We haven't seen the Taurus blow up yet so it's difficult to give a fair answer.
🤣😂 Great observation! Maybe later!
The Taurus is thinner. It also has a better smaller hammer.
The RIA M-206 is quite chunky, and has a huge hammer that can bite you.
The Taurus has many after market grips available. VZ, Pachmayr, and Altamont.
The RIA 206 Has zero after market grips available, absolutely none.
The Taurus has a smaller front site. That makes it easier to pull from a pocket.
The RIA. Has a huge site. That could make it more difficult to pull out of a pocket.
The Taurus 856 usually are not perfect accuracy. most I've seen shoot low and to the left.
The RIA M-206 usually are quite accurate.
Usually a snub nose revolver is an up close, and personal, self-protection gun.
Pro's vs cons. The Taurus, wins for most.
I paid, $328.00 out the door for my Taurus 856.
The RIA. M-206 was going for $256.00 before tax.
I'm ordering a Galloway Precision, Spring kit tomorrow. That's currently going for $15.50
I have replaced my Stock rubber grips with the Smooth, Rosewood grips from Pachmayr. Those ran me close to $45.00 from Amazon.
I have large hands, and those grips fit my hand perfectly. I can't recommend them enough.
Browne Works now makes wooden replacement grips for the RIA M200 & M206
@@garageguy879 Good to know. I don't know what took so long for someone to make replacement grips for those. I wonder if anyone has ever got around to making up replacement grips for the Windicator 357's.
I don't own one but have seen a ton of reviews on them and I believe they're decent guns for the money.
Thanks for the comment, it's greatly appreciated. Peace..
@@thebluesrockersfyi….Colt detective grips work too I’ve heard, sometimes with minimal modifications
I have a m206 and I loaded by accident a CCI 357 magnum aluminum case round that was mixed in with my 38spl. I only knew because it had a harsher recoil and louder report. Have you experienced anything like this? I'm about to take a video of it fitting in the cylinder and it firing because I cannot find a video of what I experienced. And so far it's only this particular brand of 357, all others won't fit flush in the cylinder.
No, I haven’t had that issue. Don’t think I’ve fired any factory ammo through mine either. Have been loading my own for quite a while.
I've got a 200 and 206. Not close to what my Diamondback was but the same holsters and speed loaders work.
By the way, Colt and Armscor used be be sister companies, and Smith and Wesson used to be a sister company of Taurus.
I knew about S&W and Taurus. Didn’t know that about the other 2. Thanks for the info!
Install a set of Galloway Precision springs in that 856, you'll be amazed at the difference with no light strikes. My 856 Defender 3" came with houge grips plus a ccw grip as well as an extra front sight.
I might try that. Thank you for the advice!
I don't own either one. I did buy a steel frame Taurus 605, .357 magnum.
It is the same frame as the 856 but since it is a 5-shot it can handle .357. It is a good gun and shoots to pount of aim with both 125 grain Winchester .38 Special + P jhp, and 147 grain Federal .38 Special +P+ cjhs and as far as I can tell with Wolf, 158 grain .357 magnum jhp. That rubber grips are pretty good even with .357 magnums but I carry .38 special +p ammo in it because I don't fancy blowing my eardrums out if I have to light off a round or two indoors or in a vehicle. I dry fired it with snap caps about 1,000 times which smoothed up the trigger pretty good. Its been a good little gun so far (about 10 months).
I just went to look at buying one of these today the Taurus is $399 at my local shop and the Rock Island is $265 so I went with Rock Island being in California I have a 10 waiting period so I will see if it shoots good in 10 days lol thanks for video have great day
Had a m206 and loved it ready to get another one and the m200
You can’t go wrong those. They are built like tanks
Why did you not do a trigger-pull comparison in DA mode?
It’s over 8 pounds. The gauge maxes out at 8.
Great Video Review...
Iam Interested In BOTH Of
These Pistol's, To Go With
My Ruger LCR In .38...
Thank you! The LCR is really nice too. I’ve came really close to getting an LCRx a few times. Thank you for watching!
The RIA is a great buy, highly recommended. I don't have the Taurus 856, but I have a 327 which is similar, just shoots 32's.
Thanks for the review. I’ve been thinking about getting a revolver. I am on a budget and have had my eye on the Taurus 856. After watching your review I’m probably eventually gonna get the Taurus.
Thank you very much! And thanks for watching. I really enjoy shooting it. Hopefully you like it once you get one.
I own both of them and enjoy shooting both of them . I carry the 856 becauce it is a bit smaller .
I prefer the 856 also. The RIA isn’t a bad choice though.
PERFECT. Thanks for doing this. Great vid.
Thank you, and thank you for watching!!
thank you sir. what holster do you use for either?
I use a Sticky holster for mine. Works with both guns.
Just wondering if any other grips fit the Rock Island. It sure would be nice if Colt grips fit. Great video sir.
Thank you very much! I’m not 100% sure about the grips. I’ll look into it though. I know J frames and Taurus won’t work.
Pachmayr compact and gripper grips for colt d frame will fit the RIA M206 and M200 with a slight gap at the front of the grip but you can use a dremel to work it down to close the gap. Colt d frame wood grips can be made to fit again by using a dremel tool.
Sir great video please keep them coming. But what's up with you pink AR15'S behind you 😂
Thank you very much! That’s my wife’s 350 legend AR. I had it Cerakoted prison pink. 🤣
I have an 856 that I need more trigger time with, but the trigger on it is shockingly good, it's stainless, and the particular gun I got actually was wearing a nice set of walnut grips out of the box (UPC code 725327942375) and it did also have the regular Taurus rubber grip in the box. Stainless, the grip, and taxes brought the price to just over 400 total. The only knock against it is that I would prefer .32 for carry...so I plan on getting a stainless Taurus 327! If Armscor makes a .32 version of the M206, I'll jump on that wagon too!
@@woodroez the 32 would be a great option. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the 32 Federal
I have an LCR in .327 and it is a hoot. .32 Long is a peach in it, .32 H&R is perfect for snubby defense imo, and .327 is ROWDY. Honestly a bit too much for me in the Federal load I tried. The Taurus might tame that a bit with the ten extra oz it has over the LCR, but I mostly want to have another .32 at a good price that will do well on the belt.
Seeing as how these are self defense revolvers, do you have any experience with speed loaders on them? I cant seem to get a straight answer. Some people say the HKS speed loader will work on the Rock Island, and the next comment is someone saying they dont work. A video would be very helpful if you can clear this up, since you have both revolvers. Thanks for reading.
I will look for the HKS for the 856 while I’m out today. Will let you know!
@@sacrificialscience4405 Absolute legend
@@UncleDon226 the HKS 10-A works on both the 206 and the 856. Got one and tried in both.
@@sacrificialscience4405 Hell yeah, my man. Thank you
Boaty McBoatface Can't conceal bulky speed loaders very well so I use Bianchi speed strips that lay flat in the pocket if I need a reload. Maybe not as fast as a speed loader but they are fast enough with practice.
I live in Massachusetts and wanted the 206 ,they are not legal for some reason. Im going to try to get a taurus i see it is on the ok list for mass. I dont have a revolver and would like to try one out before i spend $6-7'-8 h on a fancy one .
Can’t say I blame you. They are both nice revolvers for the money. Too bad that Massachusetts is so restrictive with their gun list.
I bought a M206 on a whim mainly because I never had a double action revolver. The HKS DS speed loaders are compatible. Working on good kydex iwb holster choices as I’m not a fan of the flimsy nylon stuff on the market. I’m 250 rounds in. It seems to be a good shooter. I’ll be bobbing my hammer and probably going on a revolver jag for a while.
It’s hard to beat the 206 for what it is and what it costs. They are built like tanks.
Just bought the m206 as my first ever revolver.
Nice choice for a first wheel gun.
I've got a Taurus judge, and it may just be mine, but it has problems. I get random lock ups when pulling the trigger in double action, and when firing in single action the hammer randomly does not lock back. it just snaps right back. id say it has one of these issues about 4-5 percent of the time
That sucks man. I’d definitely be calling Taurus and getting that sent back in
I've had 3 Taurus. All purchased new, all junk.
@@jimtaylor8009 revolvers or semi auto? I’m not much of a fan of their semis, but have had good luck with their wheel guns
@@sacrificialscience4405 Pt22, tx22, and model 85 cylinder went out of alignment with less than 200 rounds.
Oh wow that’s a pretty pricey weapon to be having issues that’s crazy
Bought an M206. Opened the box at the store, noticed right away that the hammer 4 times out of 6 wouldn't cock all the way back. That's with S/A and D/A. It got bound up and no amount of force would cock it back, until you pressed on the left side of the cylinder inward. Cylinder felt very sloppy. I called RIA while still at the bullshit FFL transfer for a shipping label. Sent it in, we'll see what happens. I would say if you need a gun right away, don't buy the Rock Island, you might have to wait a month or whatever it is for them to maybe fix it, maybe not. For me this is an extra gun to toss around the truck or wherever.
The one they had in the display was messed up as well when I got my first one. Seems to be a common issue. But when you get a good one, you got a nice little pistol.
Get the new taurus 605defender in 3"barrel with glowlight front sites SWEET. HAVE MINE 👍🏿👍🏿
What i like is the Taurus does have more options for after market grips but the rock island has it beat on price
First pistol was a Taurus G2C so I’m partial to the brand(guess it’s the fan boy) but love the way the rock island looks.
There is about $100 difference between them. If I was just buying one to stash in a drawer or kit, I would choose the cheaper of the two. Rock Island.
I've gone back to carrying revolvers. I carry 2. Both guns in the vid will reliably go bang, just like my S&W j-frames but are not heirloom quality. I prefer the Taurus because I have used their revolvers for decades. So carrying 2 and employing New York reloads, I am much less concerned about dumping one to the deck than I would a Detective Special, a Chief's Special, a Rhino, etc..
After I put a few rounds through the 206 I might consider it for CCW but for now it's great for a tool box, tackle box, glove box beater gun. It fills that role very well.
These guns are nice for that reason. I wouldn’t want to carry any gun that I would want to pass down due to losing it if there were an emergency and it had to be used. These cheaper revolvers fit that bill really well.
I don't own the RIA, but Iove my 856. I also occasionally care a s&w 638 or s&w m&p bodyguard
Bought the RIA . I am loving it. My goto truck gun.
Just be sure to keep it oiled if you leave it in your truck. They will rust overnight if it’s humid. I found out the hard way.
I have both and the ria m200 both I choose over Taurus
How is the accuracy of the 200 over the 206?
I was curious about the M206 when it first came out and felt of a lot of them and the triggers weren’t good. I didn’t get one. Then the 856 came out and I got one. It’s good to go.
I dry fired mine over 1000 times with snap caps in one day. Irritated my wife but really smoothed the trigger out.
I don’t own either of these guns but have shot both. They’re both sold guns (for the price). That’s about all I have to say about that👍🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸 I do own the Taurus 605 Defender 3”/357 Mag. It’s a beauty, I’d bet my life with it any day of the week!
I’ve been eyeballing the 605 myself!
Like both better than Charter Arms - my Bulldog 44 spl was one issue after another.
I hate to hear that. I’ve looked at the bulldogs in 45 colt and 44 special. Just haven’t bought one.
Any gun with +P ammo will wear down with hard use. The fact you triple loaded the nM206 after doubles says it’s good to go.
Well what's with the blown up m206 he whipped out?
Hello my English nones perfect but I wanted to know for you is better taurus or island? I'm about to buy an island but I'm not sure yet
I prefer the Taurus over the rock island. Just seems better built.
You can get larger grips on the 856
My favorite gun makers are Ruger then Taurus. Id take either one of these weapons as they would be for self defense only. But of course +P would be better...
I know the rock island is a little heavier but I just like the way it looks
What about the rock island m200
I don’t have one of those. Haven’t seen any in the shops I’ve been to
Double action trigger pull?....maybe I missed it.
Are you talking about checking the trigger pull weight on double action? My gauge only goes to 8 pounds. The double action pull on both are higher than that.
OK....thanks@@sacrificialscience4405
I already have the Taurus 605 Poly 2", but I like revolvers and prefer them for ccw, and I've had my eye on BOTH of these guns and tbh I don't see major flaws in either so its really a matter of which I find at a cheaper price when I actually decide to get one............if they're the same price, I'd go w/the Taurus just b/c of the +P
I would definitely recommend the 856 if you can swing it. They are made better and are a little more refined.
I don't think I would pass on either. If I had to choose I'd rather have the Taurus
The cylinder release is better for sure.
Both are valid self defense weapons. The Taurus is a bit more refined though
I myself like Charter Arms. Good guns at a decent price.
I had a 38 charter arms. Just like the capacity of the extra round these can hold. Would love to find a Charter in 44 special though.
Miss my bulldog when it barks you know it lmbo
Having owned both, I'll carry the Taurus. And do.
I want to see both put through a 500-round test,
That would be an expensive test.
Well you can change out grips so the shooting comparison might have been due to the smaller grip on the 856 since you said you do better with larger grips. My three inch 856 came with Hogue grips that are larger than the little standard Taurus grips that also came with the revolver. It also came with a standard dot front sight extra with the Ameriglo Tritium day/night front sight already on the revolver. Mine is stainless matte black. The 856 is +P rated and that is huge since it can handle stout loads if need be. I also like the shorter profile hammer spur on the 856 better than the longer spur on the 206. My 856 is the three inch, not the two inch but my 856 is a replacement for my old model 85 that went to my sister. I made the choice between the two recently and picked the 856 over the 206 that I was also looking over at that time. I agree. We are all on the same 2A team. Freedom. No need to put anyone down for getting any gun they choose. Some gun is better than no gun. Thanks for sharing.
The tritium sight kind of intrigues me. The lack on black can be difficult to make out at night. I bet yours looks nice with the stainless finish.
@@sacrificialscience4405 I have Tritium day/night sights on both the 856 and the SIG P365 and yes their glow is a comfort at night and easy to pick up. I would not say the Tritiums are necessary at night with a backup flashlight if its needed but the Tritiums do spoil you. Other pistols I have are white dot sights and those are better at night than black on black sights. Yes I like the black finish on the stainless of the 856. Thanks.
I own both and like both!
They are both great guns for the money!
I own both of these.
I'd say that the main difference between the two is that the Taurus is a reasonably priced no-frills revolver, and the RIA M206 is a poorly-made dangerous piece of junk.
I bought the M206 three months ago, and it had two serious defects out of the box.
The revolver was out of time on two chambers in DA mode, and failed to ignite over half of the cartridges I tried firing in it in SA mode. It had a third, less serious fault, which was that the cylinder release catch was so crudely finished that it would bind up in the retracted position. I fixed this myself by working the catch back and forth a few hundred times to smooth it out.
I returned it to Armscor hoping for a refund, but they instead decided to "repair" it and send it back to me.
I received it back about two weeks ago, and it still had the exact same timing problem, despite the formfilled out by the gunsmith saying he had fixed it. I don't know whether the failure to ignite cartridges problem was fixed, because it would be dangerous to attempt to fire the gun.
I sent it back to them last week, so I guess we'll see what happens.
Here is the video I made to show them that the fault is still present:
th-cam.com/video/BjCobt4PKP0/w-d-xo.html
It has cost them $26 each way to ship it, so at this point they have already paid $78 ($104 if they ship it back to me again), plus whatever they paid their "gunsmith" to pretend to fix it.
I don't know why they don't just give me my money back instead of insisting on me keeping a gun I don't want.
If you're thinking of buying a RIA/Armscor revolver and you've read this far, PLEASE learn from my mistake and don't buy it. The construction is really rough, and your chances of getting a bad one are very high.
If you do get a bad one, your only recourse is their incompetent gunsmiths that don't even know how to perform a basic function check.
The Taurus costs like $50 more, but is so much better in every way.
I watched your video. Sorry that you’re having issues with your 206. Both of mine have been great. Hopefully they get you taken care of man.
My experience with the Rock Island Armory m 206 is the exact opposite of yours. I'm honestly flabbergasted.
@@matthewrobinson4323 I'm amazed that they get such good reviews. When I was trying to get the cylinder release to stop binding up, I removed the side plate so I could apply grease directly to the parts inside.
I couldn't believe how rough the machining was - it looked like someone had used an angle grinder on it. I can't believe these things work at all, let alone get decent reviews.
@@sacrificialscience4405 Thanks, but I'm not going to hold my breath, since I already returned it once with no luck.
I own a lot of guns, and have never had an experience like this before. I deeply regret buying this gun, it's just been a months-long headache.
Im pretty sure u were very much just unfortunate enough to get a really bad piece, most people that i know who owns it had a really good experience with their m206 and those who DID have problems got theirs completely replaced for free in like a week.
I pick up my M206 on Monday. Paid $199 through Sportsman's Warehouse 😎
That’s a good buy!!
They are about 259 now, I believe. @@sacrificialscience4405
Very informative.
Thank you! And thanks for watching.
It is not a Mutual 206. That means model 206. Mutual’s are usually refer to an insurance companies and then Mutual insurance company is owned by the people that buy their products. If you have a Rock Island you do not own part of the company it’s a model 206. And get to the point on your presentation they keep on floundering.
Were you dropped on your head at birth? Brain injuries are no joke. You should probably get that looked at
The point of aim is the shooter and not the pistol. Secondly, Taurus has more weight in the steel versions which makes shooting them comfortable.
Nope. What I meant by point of aim, is the sights lined up and where the bullet makes impact. Secondly, the Taurus is lighter than the M206. Even the all steel version.
Id get the m206 no prob if it took +p ammo. Real bummer it doesnt.
Good comparison
Thanks you!
Recoil comparison?
The recoil is basically the same on both guns. I haven’t noticed a felt difference in the 2.
@@sacrificialscience4405 thx for taking the time and on Christmas too, to give me that info!
I'm biased against Taurus due to issues in past. I've never seen a 865 but i chose rock island m206. i do like it!
I’m not a fan of Taurus semi autos, but the revolvers seem pretty well made. Thank you for watching!!
@@sacrificialscience4405 Yeah I guess just the Taurus name scares me away, but I'm sure they are much better than many years ago. My rock island is pretty impressive for the money. I bet the Taurus is a nice one too.
@@sacrificialscience4405 I've been looking for all steel frame spurless 6 shot snub 38 special. not a whole lot of choices out there. considering the spurless m206 but looking at all options 1st. (I already have the m206 with spur)
@@adenval7 I have seen the spurless 206’s pop up from time to time. I’ve thought about bobbing my extra 206 hammer for snag free drawing. If I do, I’ll post a video on it
@@sacrificialscience4405 honestly I'd consider a spurless TAURUS 856 just to get some variety. what do you think? should I get one over the spurless m206?
I have both.
I chose the 856 and love it
That was a good choice!
cylinder lockup? double-action trigger pull? consistency of chamber sizes? availability of aftermarket grips? you blew up a ria m206?
Torus is my choice i like the S&W style and its +p
After working on both I'll take a Taurus 10 to 1 over Rock Island
I've got 3 Taurus 357/38 pistols. I've got 1 38/357/9mm revolver and 1 model 85 love em
My 38/357 6 inch barrel I shoot golf balls @100 yards, I promise you that rock island won't do it. Now when go to gun shop if they say Rock island I say heck no.
I purchased a Taurus once. Key word once.
The muzzle appeared as thought it was cut off with a hacksaw by a blind crack head.
🤣. That’s a great analogy!!
Well, I would get one of them, if I was a reloader.
I own both guns , I carry the taurus most of the times .
They are both good guns. The Taurus is just a little more refined.
Love the tourist for the money can't beat them
My opinion is I’m American I’ll go ahead and buy both 🤷🏻♂️
Best comment ever!!!
For my money I like the Taurus. 😸