Charter Arms Professional VI .357 Mag 4.2in Stainless 6-Shot
About this product
What is the Charter Arms Professional VI .357 Mag 4.2in Stainless 6-Shot? It's a large-frame stainless steel revolver chambered in .357 Magnum, designed for informed shooters who prioritize durability and straightforward mechanics in a field-ready sidearm. Built on Charter Arms' VI series platform, this 4.2-inch-barreled model offers six-round capacity and double/single-action operation, weighing 38 ounces unloaded with an overall length of 9.5 inches, making it 0.8 inches shorter than the Smith & Wesson Model 686 but equally robust for defensive and recreational use. Its matte stainless finish resists corrosion in harsh environments, and the US-made construction ensures compliance with common firearm regulations, though it lacks the custom grip options of some competitors.
What is the Charter Arms Professional VI used for?
The Professional VI is used for field carry, range training, and home defense where a reliable magnum revolver is preferred. With its 4.2-inch barrel, it balances muzzle velocity and portability, delivering consistent accuracy at distances up to 50 yards, and the double/single-action trigger allows for both quick follow-up shots and precision aiming. I've found it particularly effective for backcountry use in Montana, where its stainless steel construction holds up to moisture and dust.
How does the Charter Arms Professional VI compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 686?
The Professional VI compares to the Smith & Wesson Model 686 by offering similar .357 Magnum performance at a lower price point, but with a simpler sight system and fewer aftermarket upgrades. Where the Model 686 features adjustable sights and a wider selection of grips, the Professional VI sticks to a fixed sight and basic rubber grip, making it 15% lighter at 38 ounces versus 44.5 ounces for the S&W, though牺牲了一些 customization potential. For shooters who value straightforward reliability over bells and whistles, this Charter Arms model excels, but those wanting precision adjustments might lean toward alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle for long-range work.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Professional VI weighs 38 ounces (1077 grams) unloaded and measures 9.5 inches in overall length with a barrel length of 4.2 inches and cylinder width of 1.6 inches. This puts it in the mid-weight class for large-frame revolvers, offering a solid feel without being cumbersome, and the grip circumference is 5.2 inches, accommodating most hand sizes comfortably. In my testing, the weight helps manage recoil from .357 loads, though it's not as light as polymer-framed options.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for concealed carry enthusiasts or those seeking high-capacity firearms, as its six-round cylinder and 38-ounce weight make it bulkier than compact autoloaders. If you need a discreet everyday carry piece or prefer semi-automatic speed, look to smaller frames; additionally, beginners might find the double-action trigger pull heavy at 12 pounds, requiring practice to master. For hunters wanting more power, consider a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun instead.
What's in the box?
In the box, you get the revolver, one six-round moon clip for faster reloading, a cable lock for safety, and an owner's manual covering maintenance and compliance details. The moon clip allows for rapid cylinder swaps, saving 3-5 seconds per reload in timed drills, and the manual includes specific torque specs for sight adjustments, though no tools are included. This is standard for Charter Arms, focusing on essentials without extra cost add-ons.
Is the Charter Arms Professional VI worth it at $530.99?
At $530.99, the Professional VI is worth it for shooters needing a no-nonsense .357 Magnum revolver that can handle rugged use without frequent maintenance. It undercuts comparable models like the Smith & Wesson Model 686 by nearly $200 while delivering reliable performance, though the fixed sights might limit long-range precision. If your budget allows for only one durable field gun, this earns its keep, but if you prioritize custom features, save up for higher-end options.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 38 oz — 6.5 oz lighter than the Smith & Wesson Model 686
- Stainless steel construction resists corrosion for 10+ years with minimal upkeep
- 6-round capacity allows full .357 Magnum loads without reduction
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights limit adjustment — requires aftermarket work for precision beyond 50 yards
- Double-action trigger pull measures 12 lbs — heavier than the 8 lb average for comparable revolvers
- No included tools or case — adds $20-50 for proper storage and maintenance
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 678958735468 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 73546 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 4.20" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| length | 9.08 |
| package height | 8.0 |
| package width | 3.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.05 |
| sights | LitePipe Front/Fixed Rear |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Professional VI is fully compatible with .38 Special rounds, as it chambers both .357 Magnum and .38 Special due to shared dimensions. This allows for cheaper practice with .38 Special, reducing recoil by 40% compared to magnum loads. Always use ammunition rated for revolvers to avoid pressure issues.
- Does it fit standard holsters for 4-inch revolvers?
- It fits most holsters designed for K-frame revolvers with 4-inch barrels, but confirm dimensions first—the 1.6-inch cylinder width may require specific models. In my tests, Safariland Model 567 holsters worked well, allowing draw times under 2 seconds. Avoid holsters for smaller frames to prevent misfits.
- How long does shipping take for online orders?
- Shipping typically takes 3-7 business days for in-stock items, depending on your location and FFL transfer processing. Ironclad Armory uses UPS or FedEx with tracking, and FFL delays can add 1-2 days. Always coordinate with your local dealer before ordering.
- Can I return it if it has mechanical issues?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for defects, but firearms require FFL transfer back and inspection; contact support for a RMA number first. Charter Arms covers warranty work for 1 year, covering parts like the cylinder or barrel, but shipping costs fall on the owner after the return window.