Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 WMR 2 in Stainless – Compact Self-Defense Revolver
The Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 WMR 2 in Stainless is a lightweight, short-barrel revolver built for personal protection, small-game hunting, and reliable range practice. Chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum, this revolver offers manageable recoil and straightforward operation, making it a smart choice for concealed carriers who want a backup gun or a low-recoil primary. With a 2-inch stainless barrel and all-stainless finish, it requires minimal upkeep while delivering consistent performance. According to Charter Arms specs, the Pathfinder weighs just 12 ounces, keeping it easy to carry all day without sacrificing stopping power.
| Manufacturer | Charter Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Pathfinder .22 WMR 2 in Stainless |
| Material | Stainless steel (barrel, cylinder, frame) |
| Compatibility | .22 Winchester Magnum (WMR) ammunition |
| Finish | Stainless (matte) |
| Weight | 12 ounces (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 2-Inch Stainless Barrel: Why it matters: Keeps the revolver compact for deep concealment while still delivering enough velocity for .22 WMR defensive rounds.
- Lightweight 12-Ounce Frame: Why it matters: Reduces fatigue during all-day carry, making it ideal for pocket or ankle holsters without printing.
- Stainless Steel Construction: Why it matters: Resists rust and corrosion from sweat or humidity, so you can carry confidently in any climate with minimal maintenance.
- Six-Round Capacity: Why it matters: Offers more shots than most snub-nose .38s, giving you extra peace of mind in a self-defense scenario.
- External Hammer: Why it matters: Allows single-action precision shots at the range or double-action speed for defensive use—your choice depending on the situation.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for concealed carry holders who want a low-recoil backup gun or a primary for deep concealment. It also appeals to home defense buyers who prefer a simple, reliable wheelgun over a semi-auto, and to small-game hunters who need a light, packable sidearm. If you’re a new shooter looking for an easy-to-learn defensive tool or an experienced carrier wanting a .22 Magnum option, the Pathfinder fits.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Ultra-lightweight (12 oz), stainless finish for durability, low recoil for fast follow-up shots, six-round capacity, reliable Charter Arms build.
- Cons: The 2-inch barrel limits sight radius for precise accuracy beyond 15 yards—consider a longer-barrel model if you prioritize target shooting over concealment.
Comparison: Charter Arms Pathfinder vs. Ruger LCR .22 WMR vs. Smith & Wesson 351C
| Feature | Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 WMR 2 in Stainless | Ruger LCR .22 WMR | Smith & Wesson 351C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12 oz | 13.5 oz | 11.4 oz |
| Barrel Length | 2 in | 1.875 in | 1.875 in |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 8 rounds | 7 rounds |
| Finish | Stainless | Black anodized (aluminum frame) | Stainless (scandium frame) |
| Price | $392.96 | $529 (MSRP) | $689 (MSRP) |
| Action | DA/SA | DAO | DAO |
The Pathfinder undercuts both competitors in price while offering a longer barrel and a traditional DA/SA trigger. The Ruger LCR gives you two extra rounds but costs more and uses a polymer frame. The Smith 351C is lighter but nearly double the price and has a shorter barrel. For budget-conscious carriers who want stainless durability, the Pathfinder wins on value.
FAQ
What is the primary keyword for this product?
The primary keyword is charter arms pathfinder .22 wmr 2 in stainless. This revolver is exactly that model from Charter Arms.
Is this revolver suitable for concealed carry?
Yes. At 12 ounces with a 2-inch barrel, the Pathfinder is easy to conceal in a pocket holster or IWB rig. The .22 WMR round provides adequate defensive power with low recoil, making it a solid choice for backup or primary carry.
What ammunition does this revolver use?
It is chambered for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR). Do not use .22 Long Rifle (LR) in this gun—stick to .22 WMR for reliable function and proper pressure.
How do I clean and maintain the stainless finish?
Use a standard gun cleaner and a soft cloth. The stainless finish resists rust, but you should still wipe it down after exposure to moisture or sweat. Avoid abrasive pads that could scratch the matte surface.
Does this revolver have a safety?
It has a transfer bar safety system built into the action, which prevents firing unless the trigger is fully pulled. There is no manual thumb safety—rely on the heavy double-action trigger pull for safe carry.
Why Buy From Us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✅ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day return policy
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Last updated: April 2026
According to industry data, Charter Arms has produced over 2 million firearms since 1964, a testament to their reliability in the self-defense market.
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