The Taurus 856: A Popular Choice, and the Quest for a Better Trigger
For those who appreciate the reliability and simplicity of a revolver, the Taurus 856 has become a favored option. This compact, six-shot .38 Special revolver offers a balance of concealability, affordability, and ease of use. Whether it’s for concealed carry, home defense, or simply enjoying a day at the range, the Taurus 856 holds a prominent place in the hearts of many firearm enthusiasts. However, even a well-regarded firearm like the 856 can benefit from some fine-tuning. One area where improvements can often be made is in the trigger pull. Many users find the factory trigger to be a bit heavy, inconsistent, or perhaps a little gritty, making accurate and comfortable shooting a bit of a challenge. This is where a well-chosen upgrade, like a Wolff Spring Kit, can make a significant difference.
The Wolff Spring Kit for the Taurus 856 is designed to address these common trigger issues, offering a pathway to a smoother, lighter, and more consistent trigger pull, potentially enhancing the overall shooting experience. In this article, we’ll delve into the benefits of a Wolff Spring Kit, exploring how it works, what to expect, and important considerations for anyone looking to elevate the performance of their Taurus 856.
Understanding the Inner Workings of Your Taurus 856 Trigger
To fully appreciate the value of a Wolff Spring Kit, it’s helpful to understand the mechanics of the Taurus 856’s trigger system. The 856, like most modern revolvers, operates on a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) system. This means that the trigger can both cock the hammer and release it (double-action), or the hammer can be manually cocked for a lighter, single-action pull.
The heart of the trigger mechanism lies in the interaction of several key components. The trigger, when pulled, rotates, engaging with the sear. The sear, in turn, holds the hammer in place. When the trigger is pulled fully, the sear releases the hammer, which then strikes the firing pin, igniting the cartridge. The mainspring, typically located within the grip frame, provides the energy to drive the hammer forward with sufficient force for reliable primer ignition. The trigger return spring assists the trigger’s reset.
One of the frequent complaints about factory triggers is the weight of the pull. This is primarily determined by the strength of the mainspring. A heavier mainspring is designed to deliver consistent primer strikes, but can also lead to a heavier trigger pull. The texture of the trigger pull itself, the presence of any grit or unevenness, is also a common problem and one that can be improved. A heavy or inconsistent trigger can make it more difficult to maintain accurate shot placement, especially at speed or during stress. This is especially true in a defensive scenario. The Wolff Spring Kit offers a carefully considered approach to improving trigger performance, designed to address these common challenges.
Unveiling the Wolff Spring Kit: Precision and Reliability
Wolff Gunsprings is a name that resonates within the firearms community. They are a well-respected manufacturer known for producing high-quality springs designed to enhance the performance and reliability of a wide range of firearms. Their products are favored by gunsmiths and firearm enthusiasts alike. The Wolff Spring Kit for the Taurus 856 is no exception to their dedication to precision and performance.
The Wolff Spring Kit typically contains several components specifically tailored for the Taurus 856. The core component of the kit is usually a mainspring, sometimes accompanied by a trigger return spring. These springs are meticulously crafted from high-quality materials to ensure durability and consistent performance. Wolff’s spring kits are typically available in different weight options, allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger pull to their specific preferences and shooting requirements. The kit will offer different spring weights, offering a variety of trigger pull weight results.
The primary objective of the Wolff Spring Kit is to improve trigger pull weight and feel. By replacing the factory mainspring with one of a reduced weight, a shooter can achieve a lighter and more consistent trigger pull. This enhancement will facilitate faster and more accurate follow-up shots. Beyond simply lightening the trigger, Wolff’s springs are also designed to provide smooth action, minimizing any gritty feeling. They enhance the overall experience, making the revolver more enjoyable to shoot.
Unlocking the Advantages: What a Wolff Spring Kit Brings to the Table
The decision to install a Wolff Spring Kit in your Taurus 856 is driven by a desire for performance improvement. There are several potential benefits that can be realized with this upgrade.
A significant, immediately noticeable benefit is the improved trigger pull. The ability to reduce trigger pull weight is a key advantage. By carefully selecting the appropriate spring weight, shooters can achieve a substantially lighter trigger pull than what they experience with the factory components. A lighter trigger requires less force to activate, which can translate to more accurate shooting. Less force means less movement of the firearm when the trigger is pulled, leading to improved shot placement.
Along with a lighter pull, a well-chosen Wolff spring can contribute to a smoother trigger action. The factory components might sometimes exhibit a gritty or inconsistent feel. Wolff springs are engineered for precision and consistent action, reducing friction and ensuring a more seamless trigger pull from beginning to end. A smooth trigger makes for a much more pleasant shooting experience and often translates into better control.
While a primary objective is to improve the trigger pull, the Wolff Spring Kit is also often selected to potentially improve consistency. This results in a more predictable break, making it easier for the shooter to anticipate when the firearm will discharge.
Addressing potential risks is crucial, however. It’s essential to choose the correct spring weight to ensure reliable primer ignition. A spring that is too light may not provide sufficient force to strike the primer with enough energy, leading to potential failures to fire. This is why the selection of the proper spring weight and, if necessary, some professional assistance can be so critical. This also underscores the point that the proper choice of spring weight, and careful testing, is key to maximizing reliability.
Another possible benefit, albeit a secondary one, is a reduction in felt recoil. While not the primary purpose of the kit, a smoother trigger pull can contribute to a more controlled and comfortable shooting experience, which can make recoil seem less pronounced. Also, a lighter trigger pull can make the shooter more in control, which will help make the recoil feel less violent.
Furthermore, a better trigger can indirectly enhance the potential for improved accuracy. A lighter, smoother, and more predictable trigger allows the shooter to maintain better control of the firearm, which can lead to more precise shot placement. This is because the shooter is less likely to disturb the firearm’s alignment when pulling the trigger.
Considering the installation process: A Cautious Approach
Installing a Wolff Spring Kit for the Taurus 856 is a task that requires a degree of mechanical aptitude and a thorough understanding of firearms. While the process can be completed by a knowledgeable user, it is strongly recommended to seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith, especially for individuals who lack experience with firearm maintenance.
Before starting the installation, always take all safety precautions. Make sure the firearm is unloaded, and that you have verified it is clear. Have a clean, well-lit workspace. Gather the appropriate tools, including the necessary screwdrivers, punches, and potentially a vise. Refer to the Taurus 856 manual for disassembly guidelines.
The general steps of installation involve the following: Removing the grips and disassembling the appropriate parts of the Taurus 856. This includes removing the hammer and mainspring assembly. This is where a detail strip of the revolver is generally required. Then, the factory springs are removed, and the new Wolff springs are carefully installed. Be extremely cautious during this stage and do not force any parts. Reassemble the revolver, carefully following the reverse order of disassembly. Before going any further, double check your work.
Once the Wolff Spring Kit is installed, it’s crucial to test the trigger pull and function. Carefully test-fire the revolver with different types of ammunition. A chronograph is a great way to test the speed of the bullet if you want to do that. If any issues arise, such as failures to fire, address the issue immediately, potentially switching back to the factory mainspring, and/or seeking the help of a gunsmith.
Important Notes for Installation: Prioritizing Safety and Performance
Safety should always be the top priority when working with firearms. Always follow safe gun handling practices throughout the installation process. Make sure the firearm is unloaded and pointed in a safe direction.
Choosing the proper spring weight is a critical aspect of installing a Wolff Spring Kit. A spring that is too light can potentially cause failures to fire, compromising the reliability of the revolver. Start by selecting a spring weight that is close to, but not less than, the factory mainspring weight. This helps to ensure reliable ignition. Testing different spring weights to achieve the desired trigger pull is necessary.
Ensure proper lubrication. Lubricating the components according to the manufacturer’s instructions is necessary for smooth operation and longevity. Also, using good quality oil will help with proper performance and life expectancy of the firearm.
If you are not comfortable with any aspect of the installation process, do not hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Professional gunsmithing services can ensure that the kit is installed safely and correctly, optimizing the performance and reliability of your Taurus 856.
Finding the Right Match: Selecting Your Wolff Spring Kit
Wolff Gunsprings often offers a range of spring kits specifically designed for the Taurus 856. These kits may include different spring weights for the mainspring, and potentially include springs for the trigger return mechanism. When selecting a kit, consider the intended use of your revolver and your personal preferences.
If your Taurus 856 is primarily used for concealed carry or personal defense, you might prioritize reliability over a very light trigger pull. This means selecting a spring kit with a slightly heavier mainspring weight. This will ensure that the primer strikes are strong and reliable in critical situations.
For range use or target shooting, a lighter trigger pull might be preferred. In this case, you could opt for a spring kit with a lighter mainspring weight, but remember to carefully test for reliable primer ignition. There is no reason to assume that any component will have an issue, so it is always necessary to check, and double check.
Where to Buy and Estimated Costs
Wolff Spring Kits for the Taurus 856 are commonly available from various retailers. Popular online stores that specialize in firearms parts and accessories, as well as local gun shops, are good places to start the search. Prices for the kits can vary, but they typically fall within an affordable price range, offering a cost-effective upgrade to improve the overall performance and experience of your revolver.
Final Thoughts: Enhancing Your Taurus 856 Experience
The Wolff Spring Kit for the Taurus 856 presents an excellent option to improve the overall feel and function of your revolver. The potential for a lighter, smoother trigger pull, combined with the potential for enhanced reliability, makes this a worthy upgrade.
By understanding the mechanics of the Taurus 856 trigger system, the benefits of the Wolff Spring Kit, and the importance of safe and proper installation, you can make an informed decision about whether this upgrade is right for you. The key considerations, as we have discussed, include proper spring selection, paying attention to reliability, and a commitment to practicing safe gun handling.
The journey toward a better-performing Taurus 856 involves more than just the installation of a spring kit; it is about gaining a deeper appreciation for the firearm, fine-tuning its operation to suit your preferences, and fostering a more enjoyable and satisfying shooting experience. A well-chosen Wolff Spring Kit will definitely help with that.
