The Charter Arms Undercover .38 Special 2″ 5-Round is a no-nonsense snub-nose revolver built for one job: personal protection. Chambered in .38 Special with a 2-inch barrel and a five-shot cylinder, this stainless steel five-shooter gives you a reliable, hammer-fired platform that conceals easily and deploys fast. It ships with fixed sights and operates in both double- and single-action modes, making it a straightforward choice for everyday carry. At $371.50, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t cut corners on dependability.
| Manufacturer | Charter Arms (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Undercover |
| Material | Stainless steel (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special ammunition only |
| Finish | Stainless (per manufacturer specs) |
| Weight | Approximately 18 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Five-Shot Cylinder — WHY IT MATTERS: You get a compact cylinder profile that keeps the revolver slim and snag-free for pocket or ankle carry, while still offering enough capacity for a defensive encounter.
- 2-Inch Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: The short barrel balances concealability with enough sight radius for accurate shots inside 15 yards, where most self-defense situations happen.
- Double- and Single-Action Trigger — WHY IT MATTERS: You can fire quickly in double-action for high-stress scenarios, then flip to single-action for precise follow-up shots when you have a split second to aim.
- Fixed Sights — WHY IT MATTERS: No adjustable parts to snag or break, so you get a reliable sight picture every time you draw, even from a concealed holster.
- Stainless Steel Construction — WHY IT MATTERS: Resists rust and corrosion from sweat or humidity, making it a low-maintenance choice for daily carry in all climates.
Who It’s For
This revolver is for the concealed carrier who values simplicity over complexity. If you want a firearm that doesn’t require a manual safety, slide manipulation, or magazine changes, the Undercover fits the bill. It’s also ideal for new shooters who prefer a revolver’s intuitive operation, or for anyone who needs a backup gun that stays reliable in a pocket or purse. Home defenders who keep a revolver in a nightstand drawer will appreciate its easy-to-see cylinder status.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Lightweight at 18 oz, stainless finish resists rust, simple point-and-shoot operation, affordable price point, snag-free profile for deep concealment.
- Cons: Fixed sights limit long-range accuracy beyond 25 yards, and the five-shot capacity is lower than most modern semi-autos, so you’ll need to practice shot placement.
Comparison: Charter Arms Undercover vs. Smith & Wesson Model 642 vs. Ruger LCR
| Feature | Charter Arms Undercover | Smith & Wesson Model 642 | Ruger LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special | .38 Special | .38 Special |
| Barrel Length | 2″ | 1.875″ | 1.875″ |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight (unloaded) | 18 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Frame Material | Stainless steel | Aluminum alloy | Polymer with stainless cylinder |
| Trigger | DA/SA | DA/SA | DA/SA |
| Sights | Fixed | Fixed | Fixed |
| Price (approx.) | $371.50 | $550 | $600 |
The Undercover undercuts both competitors on price while offering a fully stainless steel frame—a plus for durability. The 642 and LCR are lighter, but the Undercover’s extra weight helps manage recoil in a small package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Charter Arms Undercover .38 Special +P rated?
Per Charter Arms specs, the Undercover is rated for standard-pressure .38 Special ammunition only. Do not use +P loads—they can accelerate wear and may void the warranty. Stick to 158-grain standard-pressure rounds for best reliability.
Can I use this revolver for concealed carry?
Absolutely. The 2-inch barrel and five-shot cylinder keep the profile slim, and the 18-ounce weight makes it comfortable for IWB, ankle, or pocket carry. Many CCW holders choose it as a primary or backup gun due to its snag-free design.
Does the Undercover have a hammer spur?
Yes, the standard Undercover comes with an exposed hammer spur, allowing single-action cocking for precision shots. If you prefer a shrouded hammer for snag-free draw, look at the Charter Arms Undercover Lite or Undercoverette models.
What holsters fit the Charter Arms Undercover?
Most holsters designed for 2-inch barrel .38 Special revolvers will fit, including those for the Smith & Wesson J-frame. Popular options include leather pocket holsters from DeSantis and nylon IWB holsters from Uncle Mike’s. Always confirm fit with the manufacturer before purchase.
Buy with Confidence
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Explore more options in our Revolvers and Concealed Carry categories. For budget-friendly defensive tools, check Budget Firearms.
Last updated: April 2026
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