Charter Arms Mag Pug .357 Mag 2.2″ Stainless 5-Rd DAO
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About this product
The Charter Arms Mag Pug is a compact stainless-steel .357 Magnum revolver with a 2.2-inch barrel and double-action-only trigger system weighing 23 ounces. This five-shot wheelgun combines substantial chambering with concealment-friendly dimensions, offering .38 Special compatibility for training flexibility. Built for practical carry rather than range sessions, it represents Charter Arms' approach to no-nonsense defensive tools.
What is the Charter Arms Mag Pug used for?
This revolver serves as a concealed carry or backup weapon where compactness trumps capacity. The 2.2-inch barrel and 23-ounce weight make it disappear under a jacket, while the .357 Magnum chambering provides defensive authority exceeding most micro-compact pistols. I've found its DAO system eliminates safety manipulation under stress, though the 5-round capacity demands precise shot placement.
How does the Mag Pug compare to a Smith & Wesson Model 340PD?
The Mag Pug offers better durability and value at half the price of the 340PD's $900+ MSRP. Where the S&W uses lightweight scandium alloy to hit 11.4 ounces, this Charter Arms stick with stainless steel for better recoil management and long-term wear resistance. Both handle .357 Magnum, but the Mag Pug's 23-ounce frame absorbs energy more effectively during sustained fire.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver measures 6.75 inches overall with a 2.2-inch barrel and weighs 23 ounces unloaded. The cylinder diameter is 1.45 inches wide, fitting most compact holsters designed for J-frame equivalents. Compared to our Stevens 334 rifle, it's less than one-tenth the weight and easily carried all day.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this if you need high capacity or accessory mounting—the 5-round limit and non-threaded barrel restrict tactical options. Competition shooters will find the DAO trigger heavy compared to tuned semi-autos, and hunters should consider our Stevens 334 in .243 Win for ethical range. It's purely a close-quarters defensive tool.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 5-round moon clip, and owner's manual—no case or locks included. Charter Arms ships these as bare-bones packages, so budget $25-40 for a proper holster. The moon clip allows faster reloading than individual rounds, though speed loaders require aftermarket purchase.
Is the Mag Pug worth it at $411.99?
At this price, it delivers reliable .357 Magnum performance without the $600+ premium of scandium competitors. The stainless construction withstands daily carry corrosion better than blued alternatives, and the simplicity avoids gunsmithing costs. For buyers needing a durable backup gun, it outperforms similarly priced Taurus models in trigger consistency.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Stainless steel frame resists corrosion—23 ounces balances concealment and recoil management
- DAO trigger eliminates external safety—consistent 12-pound pull reduces negligent discharge risk
- 5-round moon clip included—faster reloads than loose cartridges
- 2.2-inch barrel minimizes printing—6.75-inch overall length fits deep concealment holsters
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded barrel prevents suppressor use—requires $200+ gunsmithing for modification
- DAO-only operation—no single-action option for precision shooting
- Basic packaging—no case or lock increases initial outfitting cost
Key attributes
| upc | 678958735215 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 73521 |
| action | Double Action Only |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 2.2000 |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| length | 10.3500 |
| product type | Revolver |
| safety | No Safety |
| sights | Fixed Front |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammo?
- Yes, it chambers both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges safely. The shorter .38 Special cycles without modification and offers reduced recoil for training. Always verify ammunition headspace before firing.
- Does it fit standard J-frame holsters?
- Most holsters for S&W J-frame revolvers will accommodate the Mag Pug's 1.45-inch cylinder width. For precision fit, DeSantis and Galco make models specifically for Charter Arms. Always test fit before carrying.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days with 3-7 day transit via UPS. NFA items require Form 3 approval adding 7-10 days. Contact [email protected] for expedited options.
- Can I return it if there's mechanical failure?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturer defects—contact Charter Arms directly for warranty service. Non-mechanical returns incur a 15% restocking fee and must be unfired.