CHARTER ARMS UNDERCOVER LITE
Posted May 19, 2023
Charter Arms Undercover Lite: A Lightweight and Impressive Revolver
Charter Arms has been producing American-made handguns since 1964, with the express purpose of filling the growing need of the citizenry for self-defense weapons and police sidearms. In their standard lineup, they offer a range of wheelgun sizes and finishes, from the diminutive .32 caliber convertible models to the full-size .327 Federal magnums, all of which are affordably priced and enjoy a reputation for reliable performance.
Their Undercover Lite is an intriguing new offering that combines the traditional thumb-cock revolver design with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and other modifications to make it an ideal choice for people who need a dependable, yet unobtrusive, firedefense option. The Undercover Lite’s lightweight, compact size, coupled with its ballistic capabilities and modest price tag, make it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a combination of self-defense effectiveness and portability.
Appearance and Design
The Undercover Lite is aptly named, as its frame is made of lightweight but durable aluminum that gives it a deceptive heft. The matte black finish is classic and understated, giving it an elegant, modern look that gives away few hints as to its purpose. Measuring 7 3/8” in overall length and weighing just 13 ounces loaded, the Undercover Lite is one of the smallest revolvers available. The cylinder holds five rounds of 2” .38 Special cartridges, and its barrel is bobbed to a length of just 2 1/8”, making it an ideal choice for concealment.
The revolver’s ergonomic design is further enhanced by a textured rubber grip that lends control and comfort, while a two-piece trigger guard provides extra protection for the trigger finger. An exposed hammer allows for single-action or double-action operations. The rubber grip has an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the hammer from being cocked while the revolver is in its holster, should the user choose to carry the weapon in its factory holster.
Action and Trigger
The Undercover Lite features a smooth double-action trigger pull weight of around 9–10 pounds, which allows for greater control but may take some getting used to for shooters who are accustomed to a lighter trigger. The single-action trigger pull can be lightened to just under 4 pounds with an installation of a custom trigger kit, a worthwhile upgrade for anyone who wishes to maximize the accuracy of their shooting.
Once the trigger is pulled, the Undercover Lite delivers its full-power charges with remarkable accuracy due to its superior adjustable sights, which feature a larger and more visible sighting groove in the rear. The front sight has a fiber optic insert that glows brightly enough for easy target acquisition even in low-light conditions.
Function
The Undercover Lite is designed for reliability. The trigger and hammer assembly is made from hardened stainless steel, ensuring reliable performance in even the harshest environments, and the cylinder is designed to open effortlessly, allowing for speedy reloading. The cylinder itself is actuated by a dual-action transfer bar, meaning that it can only be opened when the trigger is pulled, adding additional safety to the design.
Chamber blocks on the top of the cylinder and a spring-loaded loading gate on the left side of the frame further insulate the user from accidental discharges. The Undercover Lite is an all-rounder that combines reliable performance and user-friendly features.
Performance
The Undercover Lite’s lightweight frame and short barrel make it a perfect choice for close-quarters engagements, and its .38 Special cartridge delivers a potent punch that can easily penetrate the interior walls and barriers that might be encountered in house or auto engagements. The Undercover Lite’s adjustable sights allow for greater accuracy, enabling it to accurately place shots in most defensive scenarios.
Overall
The Charter Arms Undercover Lite is a lightweight, low-profile revolver that promises reliable performance and portability. Its sleek frame and aggressive lines make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a reliable self-defense pistol with the assurance of dependable performance. The internal components are of the highest quality and designed to withstand harsh elements and abusive use, and the overall build quality ensures years of satisfying performance.
The Undercover Lite is an ideal combination of lightweight construction, dependable function, and impressive capability at an affordable price. Whether for home, business, or concealed carry, the Undercover Lite’s combination of size, weight, and performance makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a dependable and effective self-defense weapon.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Lightweight: The Charter Arms Undercover Lite weighs only 14 ounces, making it ideal for those who need a lightweight gun for concealed carry.
• Affordable: This gun is very affordable compared to other similar handguns, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious gun owners.
• Reliable: It is renowned for its accuracy and dependability, and many owners report it as being one of the most reliable handguns on the market.
Cons:
• Limited Calibers: The Undercover Lite is only available in .38spl and .32 H&R Magnum, so those who are looking for other calibers may need to look elsewhere.
• Short Barrel: The barrel is only 2 inches long, so it may not provide the accuracy of a longer gun.
• Small Capacity: The Undercover Lite only has five rounds in its cylinder, so those who want a higher capacity may want to look elsewhere.
Who Should Buy
The Charter Arms Undercover Lite is a small, lightweight revolver designed for concealed carry. It should be purchased by experienced shooters who are knowledgeable of firearms safety and responsible gun handling habits. It should not be purchased by inexperienced shooters, people who are not familiar with firearms safety, or those intending on using the revolver for improper or illegal activities.
Comparisons
| Product | Weight (Oz) | Length (Inches) | Caliber | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHARTER ARMS UNDERCOVER LITE | 17 | 6 | .38 | 5 |
| S & W J-Frame Revolver | 15 | 6 | .38 | 6 |
| COLT Cobra | 23 | 6 | .38 | 6 |
| RUGER LCR | 17 | 6 | .38 | 5 |
| TAURUS 85 | 15 | 6 | .38 | 5 |
Features / Specs
• .38 Special
• 5-shot Revolver
• Aluminum Frame
• 2” barrel
• Rated for +P ammo
• Overall Length 6.75’’
• Weight 12 ounces
• Matte Black Finish
• Synthetic Crimson Trace Lasergrips
• Fixed Sites
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Charter Arms Undercover Lite are grips (rubber or wood), sights (fixed, TruGlo, Williams, and TJ), holsters (IWB, OWB, pocket, and shoulder), laser sights (full-sized or compact), trigger kits (trigger job and 3.5# trigger kit), extended cylinders, and barrels.
Accuracy
The CHARTER ARMS UNDERCOVER LITE is considered very accurate for its size and weight. With a barrel length of 2-inches, the gun is capable of shooting tight groups at about 25 yards using .38 special hollow point bullets. The gun also features a Patridge style front sight that makes it easier for shooters to hit their intended target. The firing action of the firearm is incredibly easy and smooth due to it having a light alloy cylinder and frame. It’s lightweight body also makes it easier for shooters to handle and stay on target. The gun has undergone extensive testing and has been acclaimed to be reliable and accurate for its size.
