If you carry every day, you know the difference between gear that works and gear that just takes up pocket space. The Charter Arms Undercover .38 Special 2″ 5-Round Revolver is built for the carrier who wants a simple, reliable wheelgun that disappears in a holster and comes up shooting when it counts. At $343.76, this isn’t a safe queen — it’s a working tool for informed shooters who value straightforward operation and a proven track record.
| Manufacturer | Charter Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Undercover |
| Material | Steel frame, aluminum alloy cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special +P ammunition |
| Finish | Blued or stainless steel options |
| Weight | 16 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Five-Shot Cylinder: Keeps the frame slim and the weight low — you won’t notice it on your belt until you need it.
- 2-Inch Barrel: Balances concealability with enough sight radius for practical accuracy at defensive distances.
- Fixed Sights: No snag points, no adjustments, no nonsense. Point and shoot.
- Double/Single Action Trigger: Heavy DA first pull for safety, light SA follow-ups for precision when you have time.
- American-Made Reliability: Built in Connecticut with over 60 years of revolver manufacturing experience — a real EDC heritage.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the daily carrier who wants a backup gun that works every time, no magazine springs to worry about, no slide to rack. It’s also a solid choice for new shooters who want a simple, intuitive platform to learn on. If you’re already carrying a semi-auto, the Undercover makes a perfect deep-concealment option for pocket or ankle carry.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Lightweight at 16 oz, snag-free profile, reliable DA/SA operation, affordable price point, American made.
- Cons: Five-round capacity is lower than most modern semi-autos — you need to make every shot count. Fixed sights limit long-range precision.
Comparison
| Feature | Charter Arms Undercover | Smith & Wesson Model 642 | Ruger LCR .38 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $343.76 | $549 | $599 |
| Weight (unloaded) | 16 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Action | DA/SA | DAO | DAO |
| Sights | Fixed | Fixed | Fixed |
| Frame Material | Steel | Aluminum | Polymer |
The Undercover gives you a steel-framed revolver at a price that undercuts the competition by nearly $200. If you want a traditional DA/SA trigger and don’t mind a few extra ounces of steel, this is the best bang for your buck in the snub-nose category.
FAQ
Is the Charter Arms Undercover +P rated?
Yes, per Charter Arms specs, the Undercover is rated for .38 Special +P ammunition. Standard pressure loads are recommended for practice to extend service life.
What holsters fit the 2-inch barrel Undercover?
Most holsters designed for 2-inch barreled revolvers with a 5-shot cylinder will fit. Look for models specific to Charter Arms or universal J-frame-style holsters — the Undercover’s cylinder diameter is similar to the Smith & Wesson J-frame.
Is this revolver easy to conceal?
Absolutely. At 16 oz and with a 2-inch barrel, it vanishes in an IWB holster, pocket holster, or ankle rig. The fixed sights and rounded edges help prevent printing.
What is the warranty on the Charter Arms Undercover?
Charter Arms offers a limited lifetime warranty on their firearms against defects in materials and workmanship. Check their website for full terms.
Ready to Carry?
This revolver is a solid choice for anyone who wants a simple, reliable EDC without the complexity of a semi-auto. At $343.76, it’s one of the most affordable quality snub-noses on the market. Add it to your pocket dump rotation.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Check out more options in our Revolvers category, or see our Concealed Carry Gear and EDC Gear collections.
Last updated: April 2026
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