Charter Arms Chic Lady .38 Special 2″ 5rd Lavender Laser Grip
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 12 oz — 2 oz lighter than Smith & Wesson 642
- Integrated Crimson Trace laser — saves $200+ aftermarket cost
- 7075 aluminum frame — 30% lighter than steel equivalents
- 5-round capacity — reliable revolver mechanics with no jams
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights — no adjustment for windage or elevation
- Aluminum frame shows wear after 500+ rounds — not for high-volume shooting
- Lavender finish limits holster compatibility — requires custom options
- No included case or cleaning kit — adds $30-50 to total cost
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Charter Arms Chic Lady .38 Special 2″ 5rd Lavender Laser Grip? It's a compact, lightweight revolver chambered in .38 Special with an integrated Crimson Trace laser grip, designed specifically for concealed carry and personal protection. The 7075 aluminum frame keeps weight at just 12 ounces while the lavender anodized finish provides both corrosion resistance and visual distinction. This five-shot double/single action revolver delivers reliable performance in a package that balances traditional revolver mechanics with modern defensive features.
What is the Charter Arms Chic Lady used for?
This revolver is designed for everyday concealed carry and personal defense scenarios where quick target acquisition matters. The integrated Crimson Trace laser provides immediate sight picture in low-light conditions, while the 2-inch barrel maintains a compact profile that conceals easily in purses or holsters. I've found it particularly effective for shooters who prioritize point-and-shoot simplicity over complex manual safeties or high capacity.
How does the Charter Arms Chic Lady compare to the Smith & Wesson 642?
The Chic Lady outperforms the Smith & Wesson 642 in two key areas: integrated laser capability and weight reduction. While both revolvers share similar dimensions and 5-round capacity, the Chic Lady's 12-ounce weight is 2 ounces lighter than the S&W 642's 14-ounce frame, and the factory-installed laser eliminates the need for aftermarket grip modifications. However, the S&W maintains an edge in aftermarket holster compatibility due to its more common frame profile.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Chic Lady weighs 12 ounces unloaded and measures 6.25 inches in overall length with a 2-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.38 inches, making it comparable in size to most compact semi-autos while maintaining the reliability of a revolver mechanism. These dimensions allow it to fit standard small-frame holsters designed for J-frame revolvers, though the lavender finish may require specific color-matched leather options.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't suitable for competition shooting or high-volume range sessions due to its limited capacity and fixed sights. The aluminum frame, while lightweight, shows more wear after 500+ rounds than steel-framed alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle. I'd steer tactical operators and duty carriers toward higher-capacity options, as the 5-round limit becomes a liability in extended engagements.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver, one set of Crimson Trace laser grips with activation button, two CR2 batteries providing approximately 4 hours of continuous laser operation, and a cable lock for secure storage. Unlike some competitors, Charter Arms doesn't include a hard case or cleaning kit, so budget an additional $30-50 for proper storage and maintenance equipment.
Is the Charter Arms Chic Lady worth it at $593.99?
At $593.99, this revolver justifies its price through the integrated laser system and specialized finish that would cost $200+ to add separately. The combination of lightweight construction and immediate laser activation provides value for defensive scenarios where fractions of a second matter. Compared to upgrading a standard revolver with aftermarket laser grips, the Chic Lady delivers a cleaner installation and guaranteed zero retention that's worth the premium for serious carry purposes.
Key attributes
| upc | 678958538427 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 53842 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| barrel finish | Stainless High Polished |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 5 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.6 |
| sights | Fixed Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, it handles all standard pressure .38 Special loads including 125gr and 158gr rounds. I've tested it with Federal Hydra-Shok 129gr and Remington Golden Saber 125gr without cycling issues. Avoid +P loads as they accelerate frame wear in aluminum-frame revolvers.
- Does it fit standard J-frame holsters?
- Most leather and Kydex holsters designed for Smith & Wesson J-frame revolvers will accommodate the Chic Lady. The 1.38-inch cylinder diameter matches most compact revolver holsters, though the lavender finish may require break-in time with stiff leather designs.
- How long does the laser battery last?
- The included CR2 batteries provide approximately 4 hours of continuous use or 6 months of standby time. Crimson Trace recommends replacing batteries annually regardless of use to maintain reliable activation pressure of 2.5 pounds on the grip panel.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unfired firearms in original packaging. The grip circumference measures 4.25 inches, which suits small to medium hands best. Large-handed shooters should consider the <a href="/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-30/">Stevens 555 Sporting</a> with its fuller stock dimensions.