CHARTER ARMS PITBULL
Posted May 26, 2023
Charter Arms Pitbull is one of the best handguns available on the market today and is well worth the investment for those who prefer a small and lightweight handgun. The Pitbull is a compact semi-automatic pistol chambered for the 9mm Luger round. It is known for its impressive accuracy, reliability, and ease of use.
The gun itself is made from a corrosion resistant, stainless-steel construction. The trigger pull is a consistent five and a half pounds, meaning this is a completely smooth shooting process. The 19-ounce weight of the gun means that it can be easily carried in a holster or pocket. The magazine capacity of the Pitbull is 5 rounds, and the gun features an ambidextrous magazine release.
In the past, most handguns on the market had wide grip palmswells, but the Pitbull has recently been updated to feature a palm swell which is designed to fit comfortably in the hand of the user rather than the palm of their hand. This feature helps to reduce the fatigue associated with holding this type of handgun for extended periods of time, making it easier to control the firearm.
The Pitbull features a true double action/single action trigger. This means that once the hammer is cocked back, it will stay cocked back until the shooter releases the trigger. This feature helps to reduce the user’s stress, as they don’t have to worry about re-cocking the hammer each and every time they want to fire the gun.
The sights on the Pitbull are large, easy to acquire, and very clearly visible. This ensures that the user is giving accurate shots each time they fire the gun, as they can quickly identify their target. The sights are adjustable for windage and elevation, meaning the user can easily make adjustments to the gun for different shooting distances.
The overall feel of the gun is very luxurious, as it features an ergonomic grip and comfortable rubber mainspring housing. The gun has an overall slim profile, which makes it easy to carry and conceal in many different environments. Additionally, the rotating barrel lock up ensures a smoother operation and prevents wear and tear on the gun. The Pitbull comes with a lifetime warranty to ensure customer satisfaction.
The Downsides:
As with all firearms, the Pitbull has certain downsides which must be considered before purchase. First and foremost, the 19-ounce weight of the gun may be a bit heavy for some shooters and may cause fatigue during extended firing periods. Additionally, the slide lock feature on the gun is on the left side instead of on the right, which may be a bit awkward for users who prefer a more traditional side-slide release.
Finally, the original model of the Pitbull was infamous for having a light primer strike. This issue has been largely fixed over the years, however, with the introduction of an upgraded firing pin and spring, which ensures a more consistent recoil.
Conclusion:
All in all, the Charter Arms Pitbull is an excellent handgun for those who prefer a smaller, more accurate handgun for concealed carry and many other applications. With its comfortable ergonomic grip, adjustable sights, and lifetime warranty, this is an investment anyone can feel confident making.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Compact size and easy to carry
- Low cost
- Easy maintenance
- Easy to clean
- Multiple calibers available
- Durable
Cons:
- Low capacity (5 rounds)
- Limited aftermarket parts
- Trigger isn't very smooth
- Weight is a bit heavy for its size
- Recoil can be noticeable when shooting large calibers
Who Should Buy
Anyone who is comfortable legally owning and using a handgun should consider buying the Charter Arms Pitbull. Its simplicity, accuracy, and reliability make it a good choice for novice and experienced shooters alike.
People who aren't prepared to legally own and use a handgun, those who don't have a good understanding of firearms operation and safety, and those who aren't prepared to practice regularly should not purchase a Charter Arms Pitbull.
Comparisons
| CHARTER ARMS PITBULL | Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard | Taurus 85 Revolver | Taurus Model 605 | Ruger LCR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special +P | .380 ACP | .38 Special | .357 Magnum | .38 Special |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds | 6 Rounds | 5 Rounds | 5 Rounds | 5 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 2” | 2.75” | 2” | 2” | 1.87” |
| Finish | Matte Stainless | Black Melonite | Blued | Blued | Satin Stainless |
| Weight | 11.2 oz | 12.3 oz | 22 oz | 26 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Frame | Alloy | Polymer | Steel | Steel | Polymer |
Features / Specs
• Manufacturer: Charter Arms
• Model: Pitbull
• Type: Revolver
• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 5 Rounds
• Barrel Length: 2"
• Safety: Transfer Bar
• Grip: Black Rubber
• Frame Finish: Stainless Steel
• Weight: 19 oz
Popular Accessories
REVOLVER
- Holsters: Because this pistol is highly concealable, many people opt for a holster for easy access.
- Grip Extensions: Increasing the size of the grip makes the gun easier to handle for many users.
- Sights & Scopes: Though not mounted by the factory, many people add sights or scopes for a better range of vision.
- Grips: Adding grips is a great way to ensure a secure and comfortable hold on the gun.
- Laser/Flashlight Attachments: With the correct mounting components, it is possible to add a laser or flashlight to the Charter Arms revolver.
Accuracy
The CHARTER ARMS PITBULL is a reliable revolver that offers solid accuracy in a compact frame. It has a unique rimless cartridge design, which eliminates the need for moon clips or speed loaders but still allows for fast reloading and better retentive fitment of each round. The overall design maximizes the gun's accuracy potential, and users report that it is highly accurate when using the correct ammunition. The Pitbull features a stainless steel match-grade barrel and adjustable rear sights, allowing the shooter to make fine adjustments for improved accuracy. This revolver is best used for short to mid-range shooting, and is an excellent choice when reliability and accuracy are the main considerations.
