Charter Arms Off-Duty .38 SPL
It’s a lightweight, simple-to-use snubbie that won’t bust a budget!

I admit to entering into this evaluation with more than a little trepidation. Charter Arms was founded in 1964 as a company that made dependable self-defense revolvers at a reasonable price. Over the years, the company has had its share of problems and had to fight its way back from the brink several times. It seems Charter has its share of skeptics.
On the other hand, I have spoken to a number of individuals who have saved their lives with a Charter and in one case (I was the evidence technician) a middle-aged woman who had shot and killed a rapist that had broken into her home and attacked her in her own bed. She was able to get a .32 caliber Charter Arms snubbie from the nightstand and stop the attack. This woman was not rich and if it would not have been for her affordable Charter revolver, she would have been in a bad way.













April 6th, 2009 at 7:38 am
Imjust purchased mine(4/2009) and I can’t wait to put the first 500 rds through it. I bought it after shooting my mothers. Man what a sweet revolver.
February 12th, 2009 at 1:43 am
Purchased my Udercover back in 1989. It served as my ankle on duty backup for 7 years getting dirty and dusty on a daily basis, but never failing me when needed. I have shot about 1000 rounds mostly non +P, but use +P 135 GDSB for self defense! Since I am now retired, I’m going to buy a new Off Duty for my front pocket gun.
February 12th, 2009 at 1:41 am
Purchased my Udercover back in 1989. It served as my ankle on duty backup for 7 years getting dirty and dusty on a daily basis, but never failing me when needed. I have shot about 1000 rounds mostly non +P, but use +P 135 GDSB. Since I am now retired, I’m going to buy a new Off Duty for my front pocket gun.
January 18th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Bought my 38 snubby in 1974. Think I paid $95 for it and have shot many many rounds through it. Serial # is 227472. No complaints. Recently qualified with it for concealed carry.
October 15th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
I have had a Charter 38 since 1967. It has seen war and many years of out of sight carry and it has never failed me. It is now at Charter for refurbishment. They have been wonderful to deal with and have called and e-mailed concerning my desires for the weapon. My hat is off to the gals and guys at Charter. Fairly priced and truly made in America.
LTC (Retired) Dennis E. Self, U.S. Army
October 6th, 2008 at 10:05 am
I have owned a 38 in the 70’s and now a 357 mag Bulldog Pug without a failure. It sometimes is not true that you get what you pay for. Charter Arms has proven this. The other boys charge to much for their revolver vs what you get