Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 LR 4.2in 8-Round Revolver
About this product
The Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 LR 4.2in 8-Round Revolver is a stainless steel rimfire training revolver designed for low-cost practice and introductory shooting. It bridges the gap between single-action plinkers and centerfire defensive revolvers with its 8-round capacity and full-sized controls. Built on Charter Arms' proven small-frame platform, it maintains the handling characteristics of a service revolver while operating at .22 LR economics.
What is the Charter Arms Pathfinder used for?
The Pathfinder serves primarily as a low-recoil training tool for shooters transitioning to or maintaining proficiency with double-action revolvers. I've used it extensively to teach new shooters trigger control without flinch-inducing recoil, burning through 500-round bulk packs in a single range session. Its 4.2-inch barrel provides sight radius comparable to duty revolvers, while the stainless construction withstands corrosive .22 LR residue better than blued models.
How does the Charter Arms Pathfinder compare to the Smith & Wesson 617?
The Pathfinder trades some refinement for significant cost savings, coming in at $455.99 versus the S&W 617's $900+ price point. Where the Smith & Wesson offers buttery smooth action and impeccable timing out of the box, the Charter requires about 500 rounds to smooth its trigger pull to acceptable levels. For budget-conscious trainers who don't mind breaking in a firearm, the Charter delivers 90% of the functionality at half the price.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 24 ounces unloaded and measures 9.25 inches overall length with its 4.2-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.4 inches, making it compatible with most K-frame holsters, though the rounded trigger guard may require slight modification for perfect retention. The rosewood grips add 0.2 inches to the circumference compared to rubber alternatives, but provide superior aesthetics for range use.
Who is this NOT for?
Serious competitors should avoid this revolver due to its non-tapped receiver and standard sights. Without drilling for optics, you're limited to iron sights that lack the precision of fully adjustable target models. The 8-round capacity also falls short for Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shooters who need high-volume training, making this better for deliberate fire practice than speed shooting.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 8-round cylinder, and a basic cable lock—no spare grips or speed loaders included. Charter ships these in generic cardboard packaging rather than the fitted plastic cases common with higher-end brands. For storage, I recommend investing in a proper hard case like those used for our Stevens 334 Rifle series to prevent finish damage during transport.
Is the Charter Arms Pathfinder worth it at $455.99?
At this price point, the Pathfinder represents solid value for dedicated revolver shooters needing affordable practice. You're paying approximately $0.55 per round of .22 LR versus $0.65 for .38 Special, making this pay for itself after about 3,000 rounds compared to centerfire training. The stainless construction ensures decades of service, though budget an additional $150 for professional action smoothing if you dislike the factory trigger feel.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 24 oz weight — 6 oz lighter than all-steel .38 Special equivalents
- 8-round capacity — 2 more rounds than typical .22 LR revolvers
- Stainless construction — withstands corrosive .22 LR residue without blueing wear
- 4.2-inch sight radius — matches duty revolver dimensions for realistic training
Trade-offs
- Receiver not drilled/tapped — limits optics options to grip-mounted solutions only
- Standard trigger requires 500-round break-in — factory pull measures 12 lb double-action
- Rosewood grips lack texture — may require $40-$60 aftermarket grips for sweaty hands
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 678958722437 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 72243 |
| action | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 4.2 |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 8 |
| length | 10.4000 |
| shipping weight | 2.3 |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Magnum cylinders?
- No, the Pathfinder is specifically chambered for .22 Long Rifle only. Charter Arms produces a separate model, the Pathfinder .22 Magnum, which uses a different cylinder and barrel due to pressure differences. Attempting to fire .22 WMR in this revolver could cause dangerous pressure spikes and cylinder damage.
- Does it fit standard speed loaders?
- Yes, it accepts HKS 22-A speed loaders designed for 8-round .22 revolvers. I've tested loading times averaging 3.2 seconds per full reload with practice. The cylinder cutouts are properly machined for positive alignment, though the factory finish may require slight break-in for smooth operation.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically arrive within 5-7 business days via FedEx Ground. We use Ironclad Armory's certified shipping partners who specialize in firearm transport. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL verification before dispatch from our warehouse.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function properly?
- Yes, we offer a 30-day functional warranty through Charter Arms' factory service. If the revolver fails to fire, extract, or cycle properly, we'll cover shipping to their Connecticut facility. Most repairs are completed within 14 business days, though complex timing issues may require additional time.