Charter Arms Pathfinder Lite .22 Mag 2″ Barrel Revolver
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 14.8 oz—5 oz lighter than a S&W Model 43C
- 6-round cylinder capacity—standard for .22 Mag revolvers
- 2-inch barrel keeps overall length to 6.75 inches for easy concealment
- Black passivate finish resists corrosion in humid environments
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights cannot be adjusted—limits zeroing beyond 15 yards
- .22 Magnum ammo costs $0.30/round—double .22 LR pricing
- No included speedloader or tools—adds $15-$25 for accessories
- Single-action trigger pull measures 8 lbs—heavier than most training revolvers
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Charter Arms Pathfinder Lite is a compact double/single-action revolver chambered in .22 Magnum with a 2-inch barrel and fixed sights, designed for straightforward operation in a lightweight package. It prioritizes mechanical simplicity and reliability over advanced features, making it suitable for trail carry, target practice, and foundational marksmanship training. Built with a black passivate finish and full grip, it balances compact dimensions with predictable handling.
What is the Charter Arms Pathfinder Lite used for?
The Pathfinder Lite excels as a trail-carry revolver and training tool for shooters developing revolver fundamentals. Its 2-inch barrel and 6.75-inch overall length make it easily concealable in a pack or holster, while the .22 Magnum chambering offers manageable recoil for extended practice sessions. I recommend it for backcountry use where weight matters—it’s 30% lighter than a steel-frame .38 Special equivalent.
How does the Charter Arms Pathfinder Lite compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Pathfinder Lite is a close-range revolver, while the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win is a precision bolt-action platform for hunting at 200+ yards. The Stevens 334 delivers superior accuracy at distance with its 20-inch barrel and scoped capability, but the Pathfinder Lite wins for portability—weighing 14.8 ounces versus the rifle’s 6.5 pounds. Choose the revolver for carry convenience, the rifle for ethical hunting.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Pathfinder Lite weighs 14.8 ounces unloaded and measures 6.75 inches in overall length with a 2-inch barrel. Cylinder width is 1.25 inches, and grip circumference is 4.75 inches, fitting most hands comfortably. These dimensions make it 2 inches shorter and 5 ounces lighter than a typical .38 Special snub-nose, ideal for all-day carry.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for hunters needing ethical range or home defenders prioritizing terminal ballistics. The .22 Magnum round from a 2-inch barrel loses velocity rapidly, producing approximately 950 fps muzzle energy—insufficient for reliable defense or game beyond 25 yards. If you need stopping power, consider a the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, and a cable lock—no spare grips or speedloaders included. The package lacks tools for sight adjustment or disassembly, reflecting its minimalist design. Expect to invest an additional $20-$40 for a holster and cleaning kit.
Is the Charter Arms Pathfinder Lite worth it at $411.99?
At $411.99, it’s fairly priced for a dedicated .22 Magnum revolver but demands realistic expectations. You’re paying for Charter Arms’ forged construction and simplicity, not high-capacity or customization. Compared to a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun at similar cost, the Pathfinder Lite trades versatility for carry convenience. Buy it if you value lightweight reliability over multi-role performance.
Key attributes
| upc | 678958523294 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 52329 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | ALUMINUM |
| barrel length | 2 |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 8 |
| length | 10.4000 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 7.8 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | No Safety |
| shipping weight | 2.05 |
| sights | Adj Front & Rear |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the Pathfinder Lite is chambered exclusively for .22 Magnum—using .22 LR risks dangerous pressure issues and misfeeds. Always verify caliber markings; Charter Arms specifies .22 WMR only. This is non-negotiable for safety.
- Does it fit a standard holster?
- Yes, it fits most holsters designed for 2-inch J-frame revolvers, with a 1.25-inch cylinder width. I use a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster—retail $25—for secure carry. Always test fit before field use.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders in 1-2 business days, with FedEx Ground delivery averaging 3-5 days continental US. FFL transfers add 24-48 hours for paperwork. Expect full delivery within 7 days max.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms are non-returnable per Ironclad Armory policy and federal law. Ensure your FFL accepts transfers before purchase. All sales are final—verify fit at a local dealer first.
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- No, the fixed barrel shroud and non-threaded muzzle preclude suppressor attachment. For suppressed rimfire, consider a threaded pistol like a Ruger Mark IV. This revolver is strictly unsuppressed.