I have the Pathfinder 8 shot 4in barrel, 22 rf. Replaced the grip to a nice wood set. Had some problems til broken in. Now has smoothed out and is working OK. Fired CCI MM stick horribly, SV not so bad.
Charter arms had some manufacturing and quality control problems back in the early 2000s.. but anything purchased within the last six or seven years has been fantastic about 5 years ago I purchased a charter arms mag pug 357 new with two and a quarter inch factory ported barrel.. and that gun has fired functioned flawlessly.. I put a hundred full House 357 Magnums through it and 6 to 700 + p 38 the gun locks tight and functions perfectly.. I also have a older charter arms off duty .38 sp i purchased in 1992 used mint condition $180 .. most likely manufactured in their Stratford plant in the early eighties that gun is one of my favorite snub noses extremely accurate and reliable
I love 22wmr in a revolver, but I would not get a Charter again. I owned the Pathfinder in all steel and it had a trigger that would push back so far toward the frame in single action mode it could not be de-cocked and many times would not fire no matter how hard I pulled it- it was snug against the frame. So for starters they sold a gun that would not fire so I consider their quality control lacking/absent. I sent it back to Charter and their customer services so awful, they kept it for months before telling me the "frame was cracked", but unfortunately they didn't have a replacement frame available and they needed to make one in the factory from scratch and it would take several more months. Notwithstanding the fact that the trigger was at issue and the frame was not cracked anywhere, I had no choice but to wait. After more months of waiting, they stopped responding to my phone call and emails. Just went totally dark. I had to threaten to involve a lawyer/law enforcement for their essentially stealing my firearm before they finally sent me what was supposed to be a replacement, but it was a pathfinder light, a different model of gun with an aluminum frame and second transfer fee at my FFL (which they refused to cover). Charter did not respond to any of my follow-ups on why I got a different gun and why it took over half a year- and to make matters worse, the pathfinder light they sent me had a trigger than was like dragging a knife through crushed seashells. I got rid of it immediately and I'll never buy a Charter again, recommend a Charter, or fail to warn people of my awful experience. When people show you who they are, you listen. I've had work done at other manufacturers (ruger, sw) and it was fast, professional and effective. Spend your money wisely.
Interesting. This is my first Charter Arms product. It's always good to hear about other peoples experiences with a company, both good and bad. Thanks for sharing, and thanks for watching too!
I am not (yet) that far into my experience, but I can confirm your experience with "customer service" at Charter Arms, as well as the garbage quality, and complete lack of quality control. I notice the same issue with trigger pull, but that's minor compared to non-extraction of spent brass and tumbling bullets. I don't plan to keep the revolver when I do finally get it back, but instead, I'll buy something much better - like a Taurus 🙄🙄🙄
I have both versions of the 942 and they function beautifully. My pathfinder cylinder locked up solid with less than 100 rounds through it. Makes me leary to ever purchase another.
Charter makes a Bulldog XL in 45 Colt, a Pitbull in 45ACP and for $150 more you can get a “Combo” with both cylinders which I own. I have seen other reviews that say your model has issues. I am not sure if they will warranty it, but you could contact Charter and see. I have an older unshrouded extractor 3” Pathfinder in 22WMR with adjustable sights. It has an issue keeping the cylinder pin stop pin “screw” in the frame adjusted but is a decent shooter for a few cylinders full. Thank goodness for that unshrouded extractor that also is a cylinder release or I would never get the cylinder open when it’s out of adjustment! Unfortunately it was produced by the original Charter Arm and the “new” company doesn’t honor the original warranty. Really thinking of trading on the Taurus. Thanks for sharing.
I have the CA in 22 wmr. No issues. I've heard of the SW having timing issues due to the 7th round in the cylinder. Haven't heard of any issues with the Taurus.
Years ago I bought two Charter Arms Pathfinders in 22LR and had to replace the main springs in both of them due to light primer strikes. No problems after that.
That caliber is made for close up point and pull the trigger. It’s not a gunfighter caliber, but it will do what I carry one for. If you can leave the situation, do it, no matter what caliber you have! Be mannerly, respectful, and stay out of dangerous situations, and you won’t have to use it. Good review, showed the reliability issues of Rimfire. 👍🏻
Pathfinder is My "Get off me" gun. Next step up is my 357, "And stay away" gun. I am a reloader for the 357. For both calibers revolvers and rifles. The 22 in barrel on the 357 rifle really steps up the performance of the 357. 3x9x40 scope on the top. 2 inch groups at 100 yards, with handloads and from the bench.
Funny I have an Iver Johnson 38s&w with patent pending on the barrel and a transfer bar. The add claimed "hammer on hammer" ! Also have an Iver Johnson Hammerless with a trigger safety, but don't show that to anyone who prays at the alter of Glock.
Seen a number of videos on the 22 mag out of a 2 in barrel. Tumbling is an issue. How does someone think to use it for defense when the round can tumble?? It seems to have this problem out of a 2 in. Do they tumble for you out of a 3 in??
I haven't had any issues with the Taurus 942, 2" or 3" barrel, but the NAA with the 1-5/8" and the S333 Thunderstruck with the 1-1/2" barrels, have done a lot of tumbling. Thanks for watching!
The Charter Arms stainless 19 oz model is 8 shots. The Taurus 842 stainless 23.6oz is an 8 shot. That ultra lite Charter Arms model is another animal altogether so don’t compare it to the 942.
I bought some Magnum 22s today, not because you Jedi Mind Tricked me again. I'm gonna try them out in a Heritage Barkeep. Would you say the Charter Arms Pathfinder is more of a range toy or okay for home defense or both?
The one I have is a range toy in my opinion. I don't know how those .22mags will do in the barkeep, that short barrel and the magnums just don't seem to like each other.
I can’t believe people in the comments defending this hunk of crap bullets tumble out of the barrel empty cases stick and reliability gets cut in half if you shoot double action which is how you would be shooting in self defense situation I do like your videos man keep em coming
I have no idea what the twist rate is, Charter arms doesn't state it on their website. I also bought it used and don't have any of the paperwork that came with the gun. Thanks for watching!
In their "About Us" section, they claim to be the inventors of the hammer block transfer bar safety system used by almost every revolver manufacturer. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I reviewed my my references. According to Ian Hogg in The Complete Illustrated Encylopedia of World Arms copyright copyright 1978 the revolver "Patent Safety Hammer" with transfer bar mechanism was patented by Andrew Fyrberg in 1896 and first adopted for use by Iver Johnson in their turn of the century "Hammer the Hammer" Break Top Revolvers . I think Charter Arms claim may not be quite right.
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview Is it enough to boast being the inventor-???? 🤔 A. PYRBERG. No. 566,393. Patented Aug. 25, 1896- UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE. ANDREW FYRBERG, OF l/VOROESTER, MASSACHUSETTS, ASSIGNOR TO IVER JOHNSON, OF SAME PLACE. My invention relates to an improvement in the firing mechanism of firearms, and the object is to provide the firearm with a safety firing mechanism which will prevent the discharge of the firearm by any action of the hammer except as released by the trigger. Regarding weak double action strikes-misfires: Timing issues? - Hammer released too soon/low in double action before full travel -> weak hit? Transfer bar not getting completely raised because trigger does not always travel fully back before double action release -> poor hit on transfer bar? Re. sticking cases: any chamber edge dents from prior dry firing ?-these can project inward enough to bind cases when they swell or when firing pin deforms the rim a little post firing? Can try loading one chamber at a time then fire then and see if binding is only from one or a few chambers. Those dents can be tapped/swaged out with a tapered punch (never filed!). Perhaps it is ammo related tried any others? Your videos are always so interesting and thought provoking. Love them ❤ DJ
I think I'll try the individual chamber firing and see which ones are causing the problems. I think it could be two of them, because I did notice that not all of the rounds just fell in place. I may give it a good look this weekend.
Charter has always done well for me, so it's disappointing to see poor performance. Admittedly, out of the 5 Charter revolvers I've purchased over the years, only one of them did NOT have to go back to the factory for warranty repair. Not a good batting average, but they've always come back from repair in excellent shape. My Charter .32 magnum is a great little DAO pocket carry with a smooth trigger and tight lockup ... but they had to replace the barrel and trigger assembly + repair the cylinder before it got to that point... Thanks for the video!
Tumbling bullets and unreliable ignition - send it to Charter Arms to fix. As it is the revolver should not be depended on for self defense. Someone may have installed a light spring which could be the cause of the failure to fire. The bullets failing to stabilize might be caused by shallow rifling or the bore being too large. Other than these issue, the revolver looks good and would be a good choice for self defense, especially for someone who does not like recoil and muzzle blast. Doubtful any .22 mag bullets would expand from a 2" barrel so any ammo can be used, JHP or FMJ.
This is just my opinion i dont think all the problems are the gun. I have several 22's a marlin model 60 a AR with a cmmg conversion and a old single action revolver. None of the have a short barrel. Both rifles have a 16 inch barrel the pistol a 5 1/2. I was shooting some old 22 lr ammo winchester and remington. All the guns ran flawless. With the new ammo doesnt matter manufacturer none of them can run 50 rounds without any malfunctions. Accuracy sucks. Since covid i dont shoot 22 lr anymore. Its just inconsistent and unreliable. A 22 snubnose is a 10 yard or less self defense gun in my opinion its already a low power round so key holing doesnt bother me. Again my opinion a 22 snub nose is not what i would ever carry my 357 j frame is the same size or close way more power. So if you like it have fun with it dont worry about what others think. If its fun to shoot its worth it i have guns that i bought just becouse they are fun. They are not self defense or hunting guns just fun guns. Scar have fun do what you do i will keep watching.
I have several guns that I bought just for fun. Carry is another story. I like at least .38 special, prefer .357 but usually carry 9mm. Caliber is usually a matter of choice and can be based on a variety of reasons, strength, health or confidence. All are usually better than a rock or sharp stick. The Taurus 605 is a .357 that is the exact same size as the Taurus 942, .22mag and the Pathfinder too. The rifling in the Pathfinder seems to be a little light though, I don't think I've ever had a round tumble in the Taurus 942 and I don't think I've had a light strike either. I wish every gun I reviewed was the best thing out there, but if I come across one that's not 100%, maybe it will help others in their decision making process.
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I agree 100% I was just saying the gun may not be as bad as it appears the quality of 22 lr ammo is terrible the last few years not just misfires but even accuracy or at least that's my experience my marlin has always been a reliable and accurate gun just not with the ammo being made during this ammo shortage
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I would definitely try it with the pre pandemic ammo before I make a opinion on the firearm. You may find it's not a bad gun it may turn out to be a good little gun or you may find it not very good at all. I just know that if I evaluated my little marlin off what I'm seeing with the ammo coming out now I would discard it. But since I have owned it for almost 40 years and do have a little good ammo I know it's not the gun.
I have noticed that in single action, the hammer goes further back than it does in double action. I think that's why I had some failures to fire. Thanks for watching!
@@crushthequarter6863 I have both the Charter Arms and the Taurus and although the Pathfinder I have is an older one, The 942 has functioned exactly as it should, I had several issues with the .22 Mag Charter Arms revolver. I'm not going to tell you what to spend your money on, all I can say is, if it were my choice, I'd get the Taurus.
I'm not surprised with this weapon's behavior. Was a gunsmith and police armourer for many years. Many officers bought Charter Arms revolvers only to have issues with them. Light strikes and poor timing were the main reason for failure. Professionally, I've found Charter Arms revolvers to be an inferior product.
That's unacceptable performance. Charter likes to talk about their amazing warranty, so send that in to Charter and do a follow up on how their warranty is.
DO NOT BUY! I bought this exact same revolver and sent it back 4 times for repair to no avail. Still light primer strikes. I used four different types of high quality ammo. They then sent me the 8 shot model. Same problem. It seemed that they didn't believe me. I finally talked to the owner and requested another gun in .38 special. Figured that would take care of the problem since they're known for that caliber. After waiting MONTHS to get it, guess what? Light primer strikes and wobbly cylinder. So, I had to send THAT back for repair. I got it back, but don't trust it. This whole ordeal took over a year and a half to resolve. Every Charter Arms I've ever owned had to be sent back for light primer strikes. I've owned two previous to this model. NEVER AGAIN!!!!!
Charter arms had some quality control issues back in the early 2000s... But anything manufactured within the last 7 to 8 years has been fantastic quality control... I purchased a magpug 357 about 5 years ago and it is a fantastic gun great quality after 100 full power magnums in 700 plus p38 put through it it locks up tight and has fired flawlessly i & accurately
All the benefits of the 22 WMR are lost with such a short barrel. Such a gun makes more sense in .22LR for an inexpensive shooter or any centerfire caliber if it's destined to self defense.
I'm sure the .22mag will have a little more energy than a .22lr from the same barrel length, maybe not much though. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching too.
Man, I can see on the video that the bullets are key-holing. That's from only 7 yards, which means that longer range accuracy will be zero. Plus, the empty cases being stuck in the cylinder, and the light hammer strikes. No way Charter Arms would've released this pistol 50 years ago. Made in America, and still junk.
You'd think they'd fix that issue, I'm sure there have been many others that have had the same problem. I'm a big fan of things made in the US, but they still need to work. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview You would not believe how beautiful they are, one is the Blue Diamond (blue and shiny stainless), one is Old Glory flag. Just gorgeous. But single action.
Not impressed with the reliability of the pistol. The misfires,key holes and sticky extraction sum up about everything that can go wrong with a revolver. The two separate firing pin hits on the rim and the keyholes indicate a real problem with the timing of the revolver. I like your reviews but in this case I think you were overly kind to the product
I bought one if these POS in .22 WMR. New, out of the box, could not eject spent brass and 3/8 bullets went throught the target 180 degrees sideways, with others showing a degree of "tumbling". AFTER being "repaired" by Charter, extraction is marginally better, but still not smooth, and the keyholing is no different. It is back for further repair work.... The gun is garbage, and customer service from Charter Arms is even worse than garbage.
I just love 22 double action revolvers they're so much fun
I agree. Thanks for watching!
I have both the Charter & Taurus 22 mag revolvers.Haven't had any problem with either one.I like them both very much.
Between the two I have, I like the Taurus better. Thanks for watching!
I have the Pathfinder 8 shot 4in barrel, 22 rf. Replaced the grip to a nice wood set.
Had some problems til broken in.
Now has smoothed out and is working OK.
Fired CCI MM stick horribly, SV not so bad.
Interesting that you have a newer version and still have similar issues. Thanks for watching!
I have an older 22 pathfinder with a 4"barrel.a good woods/fishing gun. I think the older guns were better. Another great review. Thanks
That's probably true for a lot of things! Thanks for watching!
I had a charter arms bull dog 44 special made in the 70's. I loved that gun should have kept it. Good video buddy.
This was my first Charter Arms experience. Thanks for watching A.R.
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview if that one has the quality of that old one I had you will love it.
David Berkowitz liked that gun too...lol
Charter arms had some manufacturing and quality control problems back in the early 2000s.. but anything purchased within the last six or seven years has been fantastic about 5 years ago I purchased a charter arms mag pug 357 new with two and a quarter inch factory ported barrel.. and that gun has fired functioned flawlessly.. I put a hundred full House 357 Magnums through it and 6 to 700 + p 38 the gun locks tight and functions perfectly.. I also have a older charter arms off duty .38 sp i purchased in 1992 used mint condition $180 .. most likely manufactured in their Stratford plant in the early eighties that gun is one of my favorite snub noses extremely accurate and reliable
I have heard people say that the larger calibers have been fine, it's usually the rimfires that have problems. Thanks for watching!
I love 22wmr in a revolver, but I would not get a Charter again. I owned the Pathfinder in all steel and it had a trigger that would push back so far toward the frame in single action mode it could not be de-cocked and many times would not fire no matter how hard I pulled it- it was snug against the frame. So for starters they sold a gun that would not fire so I consider their quality control lacking/absent. I sent it back to Charter and their customer services so awful, they kept it for months before telling me the "frame was cracked", but unfortunately they didn't have a replacement frame available and they needed to make one in the factory from scratch and it would take several more months. Notwithstanding the fact that the trigger was at issue and the frame was not cracked anywhere, I had no choice but to wait. After more months of waiting, they stopped responding to my phone call and emails. Just went totally dark. I had to threaten to involve a lawyer/law enforcement for their essentially stealing my firearm before they finally sent me what was supposed to be a replacement, but it was a pathfinder light, a different model of gun with an aluminum frame and second transfer fee at my FFL (which they refused to cover). Charter did not respond to any of my follow-ups on why I got a different gun and why it took over half a year- and to make matters worse, the pathfinder light they sent me had a trigger than was like dragging a knife through crushed seashells. I got rid of it immediately and I'll never buy a Charter again, recommend a Charter, or fail to warn people of my awful experience. When people show you who they are, you listen. I've had work done at other manufacturers (ruger, sw) and it was fast, professional and effective. Spend your money wisely.
Interesting. This is my first Charter Arms product. It's always good to hear about other peoples experiences with a company, both good and bad. Thanks for sharing, and thanks for watching too!
I am not (yet) that far into my experience, but I can confirm your experience with "customer service" at Charter Arms, as well as the garbage quality, and complete lack of quality control.
I notice the same issue with trigger pull, but that's minor compared to non-extraction of spent brass and tumbling bullets.
I don't plan to keep the revolver when I do finally get it back, but instead, I'll buy something much better - like a Taurus 🙄🙄🙄
I have both versions of the 942 and they function beautifully. My pathfinder cylinder locked up solid with less than 100 rounds through it. Makes me leary to ever purchase another.
I'm not so impressed with the Pathfinder either. Thanks for watching!
Charter makes a Bulldog XL in 45 Colt, a Pitbull in 45ACP and for $150 more you can get a “Combo” with both cylinders which I own.
I have seen other reviews that say your model has issues. I am not sure if they will warranty it, but you could contact Charter and see.
I have an older unshrouded extractor 3” Pathfinder in 22WMR with adjustable sights. It has an issue keeping the cylinder pin stop pin “screw” in the frame adjusted but is a decent shooter for a few cylinders full. Thank goodness for that unshrouded extractor that also is a cylinder release or I would never get the cylinder open when it’s out of adjustment! Unfortunately it was produced by the original Charter Arm and the “new” company doesn’t honor the original warranty.
Really thinking of trading on the Taurus. Thanks for sharing.
I do like .45 caliber! I may have to check them out. Thanks for watching!
I have the CA in 22 wmr. No issues. I've heard of the SW having timing issues due to the 7th round in the cylinder. Haven't heard of any issues with the Taurus.
I love my Taurus 942, zero issues with it. Thanks for watching!
I documented some of the same issues you had. I figured the grip frame is too thin so Charter installed a weak hammer spring.
Glad I'm not the only one. Maybe that's why they don't list the same model on their website anymore. Thanks for watching!
Great video…..Nice comparison with the Taurus! I love revolvers!
💪🇺🇸
Thanks! I love 'em too!
Another nice review. Keep it up.
Thank you!
Years ago I bought two Charter Arms Pathfinders in 22LR and had to replace the main springs in both of them due to light primer strikes. No problems after that.
I think this one could benefit from some new parts. Thanks for watching!
That caliber is made for close up point and pull the trigger. It’s not a gunfighter caliber, but it will do what I carry one for. If you can leave the situation, do it, no matter what caliber you have! Be mannerly, respectful, and stay out of dangerous situations, and you won’t have to use it. Good review, showed the reliability issues of Rimfire. 👍🏻
That's some good advice! Thanks for watching!
Pathfinder is My "Get off me" gun. Next step up is my 357, "And stay away" gun. I am a reloader for the 357. For both calibers revolvers and rifles. The 22 in barrel on the 357 rifle really steps up the performance of the 357. 3x9x40 scope on the top. 2 inch groups at 100 yards, with handloads and from the bench.
I suppose the advantage to the keyholing is that it makes a bigger hole 🤣😅🤣😂🤣😅
Stay out of dangerous situations and you won’t have to use it? You shouldn’t need to carry yourself considering you stay out of dangerous situations.
@@AK-ky3ou sometimes you are in the wrong place and time! If you want safety, stay home and hold your rifle or shotgun!
I think the sticking cases is why you got it from another person.
That is a very strong possibility, but the price was right! Thanks for watching!
Get a small dowel rod and wrap some emory cloth around it and pass it through those cylinders. That should smooth everything up.
I've been thinking about trying that. Thanks for watching!
.... because we certainly should not expect a $400 gun to function properly from the factory....
My experience is simple: Charter Arms =garbage
I have a pocket target 22LR 3". The predecessor to the Pathfinder.
Nice.
My Charter Arms Pathfinder 22 magnum is a 8 shot, but mine isn't the light weight model.
Mine is an older one. (not sure of the year) They don't have the 6 shot listed on their website any more. Thanks for watching!
Their Professional .32 mag is a good running gun Richard. Pick 1 up. You may like it
I'll keep my eyes peeled. Thanks for watching!
Nice review Richard.
Thank you James!
Do a review of the diamondback sidekick 22mag/22lr
I don't currently own one, but I may have to see about picking one up sometime. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview that's fine, there's plenty of reviews out there already. I like the 9shot cylinders and the two for one price
Were any of the bullets tumbling? It was tough to tell if the paper was loose on the cardboard and that was causing the oblong tears or not.
I don't think so, but the video was quite a while back. Thanks for watching!
Hey... All the really cool kids are cross eye dominant southpaws! 😮
Just playing the hand I was dealt, but I'm no southpaw. Thanks for watching!
Funny I have an Iver Johnson 38s&w with patent pending on the barrel and a transfer bar. The add claimed "hammer on hammer" ! Also have an Iver Johnson Hammerless with a trigger safety, but don't show that to anyone who prays at the alter of Glock.
Lol! I like those old pistols. Thanks for watching!
Yep, Charter was about 60 or 70 years late to the transfer bar game.
Seen a number of videos on the 22 mag out of a 2 in barrel. Tumbling is an issue. How does someone think to use it for defense when the round can tumble?? It seems to have this problem out of a 2 in. Do they tumble for you out of a 3 in??
I haven't had any issues with the Taurus 942, 2" or 3" barrel, but the NAA with the 1-5/8" and the S333 Thunderstruck with the 1-1/2" barrels, have done a lot of tumbling. Thanks for watching!
The Charter Arms stainless 19 oz model is 8 shots. The Taurus 842 stainless 23.6oz is an 8 shot.
That ultra lite Charter Arms model is another animal altogether so don’t compare it to the 942.
The 942 is the only comparable revolver I had to compare it to. It's only a comparison for size. Thanks for watching!
Or quite a few nice Heritage's!!
Yes, I've had less issues with them. Thanks for watching!
I bought some Magnum 22s today, not because you Jedi Mind Tricked me again. I'm gonna try them out in a Heritage Barkeep. Would you say the Charter Arms Pathfinder is more of a range toy or okay for home defense or both?
The one I have is a range toy in my opinion. I don't know how those .22mags will do in the barkeep, that short barrel and the magnums just don't seem to like each other.
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I'll find out the hard way.
Was gonna buy one until I saw this video 😮
I wish I would have seen it before buying mine.....wait. Thanks for watching!
Thank you!
Thank you for watching!
I can’t believe people in the comments defending this hunk of crap bullets tumble out of the barrel empty cases stick and reliability gets cut in half if you shoot double action which is how you would be shooting in self defense situation I do like your videos man keep em coming
I really dislike tumbling bullets! Sticking cases can sometimes be fixed, or at least dealt with. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!
You appear to have some keyhole issues. What is the twist rate?
I have no idea what the twist rate is, Charter arms doesn't state it on their website. I also bought it used and don't have any of the paperwork that came with the gun. Thanks for watching!
I believe the transfer bar revlver mechanism was invented by Iver Johnson circa 1895 with their "Hammer the Hammer saftey" if I'm not mistaken
In their "About Us" section, they claim to be the inventors of the hammer block transfer bar safety system used by almost every revolver manufacturer. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I reviewed my my references. According to Ian Hogg in The Complete Illustrated Encylopedia of World Arms copyright copyright 1978 the revolver "Patent Safety Hammer" with transfer bar mechanism was patented by Andrew Fyrberg in 1896 and first adopted for use by Iver Johnson in their turn of the century "Hammer the Hammer" Break Top Revolvers . I think Charter Arms claim may not be quite right.
That's pretty interesting! I wonder how much of a difference there is in the design?
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview Is it enough to boast being the inventor-???? 🤔
A. PYRBERG.
No. 566,393. Patented Aug. 25, 1896-
UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.
ANDREW FYRBERG, OF l/VOROESTER, MASSACHUSETTS, ASSIGNOR TO IVER JOHNSON, OF SAME PLACE.
My invention relates to an improvement in the firing mechanism of firearms, and the object is to provide the firearm with a safety firing mechanism which will prevent the discharge of the firearm by any action of the hammer except as released by the trigger.
Regarding weak double action strikes-misfires: Timing issues? - Hammer released too soon/low in double action before full travel -> weak hit? Transfer bar not getting completely raised because trigger does not always travel fully back before double action release -> poor hit on transfer bar? Re. sticking cases: any chamber edge dents from prior dry firing ?-these can project inward enough to bind cases when they swell or when firing pin deforms the rim a little post firing? Can try loading one chamber at a time then fire then and see if binding is only from one or a few chambers. Those dents can be tapped/swaged out with a tapered punch (never filed!). Perhaps it is ammo related tried any others? Your videos are always so interesting and thought provoking. Love them ❤ DJ
I think I'll try the individual chamber firing and see which ones are causing the problems. I think it could be two of them, because I did notice that not all of the rounds just fell in place. I may give it a good look this weekend.
Charter has always done well for me, so it's disappointing to see poor performance. Admittedly, out of the 5 Charter revolvers I've purchased over the years, only one of them did NOT have to go back to the factory for warranty repair. Not a good batting average, but they've always come back from repair in excellent shape. My Charter .32 magnum is a great little DAO pocket carry with a smooth trigger and tight lockup ... but they had to replace the barrel and trigger assembly + repair the cylinder before it got to that point... Thanks for the video!
It'd be nice if they never had to go back. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview True! While warranty work has always been good quality, it's a shame it was required at all!
Tumbling bullets and unreliable ignition - send it to Charter Arms to fix. As it is the revolver should not be depended on for self defense. Someone may have installed a light spring which could be the cause of the failure to fire. The bullets failing to stabilize might be caused by shallow rifling or the bore being too large. Other than these issue, the revolver looks good and would be a good choice for self defense, especially for someone who does not like recoil and muzzle blast. Doubtful any .22 mag bullets would expand from a 2" barrel so any ammo can be used, JHP or FMJ.
I'll have to see what their warranty states, since I am not the original owner. The rifling does seem to be a bit light. Thanks for watching!
I see why that gun was traded in . Was interested in this for my mother but thinking no bueno
I would suggest the Taurus 942, it's one of my favorites. Thanks for watching!
This is just my opinion i dont think all the problems are the gun. I have several 22's a marlin model 60 a AR with a cmmg conversion and a old single action revolver. None of the have a short barrel. Both rifles have a 16 inch barrel the pistol a 5 1/2. I was shooting some old 22 lr ammo winchester and remington. All the guns ran flawless. With the new ammo doesnt matter manufacturer none of them can run 50 rounds without any malfunctions. Accuracy sucks. Since covid i dont shoot 22 lr anymore. Its just inconsistent and unreliable. A 22 snubnose is a 10 yard or less self defense gun in my opinion its already a low power round so key holing doesnt bother me. Again my opinion a 22 snub nose is not what i would ever carry my 357 j frame is the same size or close way more power. So if you like it have fun with it dont worry about what others think. If its fun to shoot its worth it i have guns that i bought just becouse they are fun. They are not self defense or hunting guns just fun guns. Scar have fun do what you do i will keep watching.
I have several guns that I bought just for fun. Carry is another story. I like at least .38 special, prefer .357 but usually carry 9mm. Caliber is usually a matter of choice and can be based on a variety of reasons, strength, health or confidence. All are usually better than a rock or sharp stick. The Taurus 605 is a .357 that is the exact same size as the Taurus 942, .22mag and the Pathfinder too. The rifling in the Pathfinder seems to be a little light though, I don't think I've ever had a round tumble in the Taurus 942 and I don't think I've had a light strike either. I wish every gun I reviewed was the best thing out there, but if I come across one that's not 100%, maybe it will help others in their decision making process.
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I agree 100% I was just saying the gun may not be as bad as it appears the quality of 22 lr ammo is terrible the last few years not just misfires but even accuracy or at least that's my experience my marlin has always been a reliable and accurate gun just not with the ammo being made during this ammo shortage
@@A.R.American1 Got ya! Luckily, I've still got some pre-pandemic ammo left over!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I would definitely try it with the pre pandemic ammo before I make a opinion on the firearm. You may find it's not a bad gun it may turn out to be a good little gun or you may find it not very good at all. I just know that if I evaluated my little marlin off what I'm seeing with the ammo coming out now I would discard it. But since I have owned it for almost 40 years and do have a little good ammo I know it's not the gun.
these like 35-30gr bullets. Mine tumbles half of them with 40gr and up
The biggest problem I have with this one is the light strikes in double action. Thanks for watching!
Wow i've not had any problems with mine.
I have noticed that in single action, the hammer goes further back than it does in double action. I think that's why I had some failures to fire. Thanks for watching!
Which do you prefer the Charter Arms Pathfinder or Taurus 942?
Taurus 942, no question!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview So spend the money on a Taurus first instead?
@@crushthequarter6863 I have both the Charter Arms and the Taurus and although the Pathfinder I have is an older one, The 942 has functioned exactly as it should, I had several issues with the .22 Mag Charter Arms revolver. I'm not going to tell you what to spend your money on, all I can say is, if it were my choice, I'd get the Taurus.
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview Perhaps a 32 H&R Mag Charter Arms would be a better choice than a .22....I do want to give Charter Arms a shot someday.
@@crushthequarter6863 Perhaps, the only one I have tried was the .22mag revolver.
I'm not surprised with this weapon's behavior. Was a gunsmith and police armourer for many years. Many officers bought Charter Arms revolvers only to have issues with them. Light strikes and poor timing were the main reason for failure.
Professionally, I've found Charter Arms revolvers to be an inferior product.
Interesting. Thanks for the comment. Thanks for watching too!
I would suspect that the timing is not reliable. Since it didn't hit same spot.
That's possible. There's definitley some light strikes in double action too. Thanks for watching!
The steel casing 22 magnum doesn't stick like that, in mine the brass casings stick like that.
I don't think I've ever seen steel case .22 magnum. I have seen nickel case though. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview I meant the nickel casing
Whoa, what a POS. Thanx for sharing.
Thank you for watching!
I was looking for this in the CA roster but I couldn't find it. So I guess it's not legal. I want to try it.
I wonder why? Maybe the melting point of the aluminum frame. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview Might be the reason. It’s a pleasure watching your educational vids. 🙏
@@nastymkfan thanks, I appreciate that!
That's unacceptable performance. Charter likes to talk about their amazing warranty, so send that in to Charter and do a follow up on how their warranty is.
I'll have to look into their policy, I bought it used. Thanks for watching!
DO NOT BUY! I bought this exact same revolver and sent it back 4 times for repair to no avail. Still light primer strikes. I used four different types of high quality ammo. They then sent me the 8 shot model. Same problem. It seemed that they didn't believe me. I finally talked to the owner and requested another gun in .38 special. Figured that would take care of the problem since they're known for that caliber. After waiting MONTHS to get it, guess what? Light primer strikes and wobbly cylinder. So, I had to send THAT back for repair. I got it back, but don't trust it. This whole ordeal took over a year and a half to resolve. Every Charter Arms I've ever owned had to be sent back for light primer strikes. I've owned two previous to this model. NEVER AGAIN!!!!!
@@philiphusoveck1094 Why didn't you tell me sooner? Thanks for watching!
Charter arms had some quality control issues back in the early 2000s... But anything manufactured within the last 7 to 8 years has been fantastic quality control... I purchased a magpug 357 about 5 years ago and it is a fantastic gun great quality after 100 full power magnums in 700 plus p38 put through it it locks up tight and has fired flawlessly i
& accurately
❤ rhanks
👍👍👍
i like ruger lcrx.
I like Ruger myself, but that $739 MSRP is kind of steep. I think the Taurus 942 MSRP is about 300 less. Thanks for watching!
charter arm needs to the smaller grips back
That would make it a bit more concealable. Thanks for watching!
Trigger guard for mittens .
They do make triggers that can be used for mittens! Thumb triggers. They're a little scary looking though. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview disassembled easty. If made of plastics . . Problematic . Thumb trigger. Would B A .Q.
Plastic revolver ,changing channel 😫🤣✌️🍺🇺🇸
I can't just review the good ones. Thanks for watching.....at least as much as you did.
All the benefits of the 22 WMR are lost with such a short barrel. Such a gun makes more sense in .22LR for an inexpensive shooter or any centerfire caliber if it's destined to self defense.
I'm sure the .22mag will have a little more energy than a .22lr from the same barrel length, maybe not much though. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching too.
I'm always so disappointed for you when you get a gun and it doesn't work. You seem so excited about them and then the let down.
They can't all be winners. Maybe I can save someone else the same fate! Thanks for watching Mike!
Man, I can see on the video that the bullets are key-holing. That's from only 7 yards, which means that longer range accuracy will be zero. Plus, the empty cases being stuck in the cylinder, and the light hammer strikes. No way Charter Arms would've released this pistol 50 years ago. Made in America, and still junk.
It is a little upsetting. Thanks for watching!
Eh, you take chances and someone else’s problems with used guns.
The previous owner did offer to buy it back after he watched the video. Thanks for watching!
That's why you by an LCR😂😂😂
The Taurus 942 is a good one too! I need to pick up an LCR someday. Thanks for watching!
Charter Arms did that on the 2 38's I wasted my money on, light primer strikes. Completely unreliable in double action.
You'd think they'd fix that issue, I'm sure there have been many others that have had the same problem. I'm a big fan of things made in the US, but they still need to work. Thanks for watching!
@@SmallCaliberArmsReview You would not believe how beautiful they are, one is the Blue Diamond (blue and shiny stainless), one is Old Glory flag. Just gorgeous. But single action.
Not impressed with the reliability of the pistol. The misfires,key holes and sticky extraction sum up about everything that can go wrong with a revolver. The two separate firing pin hits on the rim and the keyholes indicate a real problem with the timing of the revolver. I like your reviews but in this case I think you were overly kind to the product
I'm also not too impressed with it. I picked it up fairly cheap, so I may experiment with it a bit. Thanks for watching!
Obviously not a good buy
This one was an older, used one. I paid my money and took my chances!
This revolver has so many issues, not cool.
No, it's not. Thanks for watching!
I bought one if these POS in .22 WMR. New, out of the box, could not eject spent brass and 3/8 bullets went throught the target 180 degrees sideways, with others showing a degree of "tumbling".
AFTER being "repaired" by Charter, extraction is marginally better, but still not smooth, and the keyholing is no different. It is back for further repair work....
The gun is garbage, and customer service from Charter Arms is even worse than garbage.
I hate to hear that. I've heard of others having issues with the .22WMR version. Thanks for sharing and thanks for watching too!