Charter Arms Chameleon .38 Special 2in 5-Round Revolver
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 14.2 oz—2 oz lighter than Smith & Wesson 642 Airweight
- Iridescent finish provides corrosion resistance exceeding standard bluing
- 2-inch barrel maintains 750 fps with 125-grain standard pressure loads
- 5-round moon clip enables reloads 3 seconds faster than loose rounds
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights lack tritium—requires aftermarket paint for low-light use
- Rubber grips absorb recoil but add 0.5 inches to grip circumference
- Limited aftermarket support compared to Smith & Wesson J-frame platform
- Finish shows holster wear noticeably after 200 draw cycles
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Charter Arms Chameleon .38 Special is a compact five-shot revolver featuring a 2-inch barrel, fixed sights, and a distinctive iridescent finish designed for concealed carry reliability and visual distinction. Built on Charter Arms' proven Undercover frame, it balances mechanical simplicity with practical defensive capability while maintaining compliance with standard firearms regulations. This model prioritizes straightforward operation in close-quarters scenarios where draw speed and consistent point-of-aim matter more than extended range precision.
What is the Charter Arms Chameleon .38 Special used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a concealed carry and backup firearm where its 14.2-ounce weight and 6.75-inch overall length facilitate discreet all-day carry. The 2-inch barrel delivers adequate velocity for standard-pressure .38 Special defensive loads within 7-10 yards, while the five-round capacity aligns with typical defensive encounter statistics. I recommend it for urban environments where printing concerns outweigh capacity requirements.
How does the Charter Arms Chameleon compare to the Smith & Wesson J-Frame?
The Chameleon trades approximately 2 ounces of weight reduction and its distinctive finish against the Smith & Wesson 642's more proven track record and aftermarket support. Where the S&W excels in holster compatibility and smith familiarity, the Charter offers a 15% lower MSRP and visually distinct appearance—choose the 642 for proven durability, the Chameleon for budget-conscious distinctive carry.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight measures 14.2 ounces with a 6.75-inch overall length and 4.25-inch height including grips. The 2-inch barrel maintains a 1.32-inch cylinder width, sliding into most compact holsters designed for J-frame equivalents. These dimensions make it compatible with pocket carry in larger trousers or IWB setups without printing concerns for most body types.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this revolver if you require night sights, extended capacity, or accessory rail mounting—the fixed sights and smooth front strap reject modifications. Duty carriers needing high-volume practice should consider the Stevens 334 rifle for more affordable training ammunition. Competition shooters requiring fast reloads will find the five-round cylinder and small ejection port frustrating compared to semi-autos.
What's in the box?
Included are the revolver, one 5-round moon clip, a cable lock, and owner's manual—no cleaning kit or spare grips. The moon clip allows faster reloading than loose rounds but requires specific compatible speedloaders. Charter's packaging meets federal requirements but lacks the custom foam inserts seen in premium brands.
Is the Charter Arms Chameleon worth it at $457.99?
At this price point, it occupies a niche between Taurus's budget models and Smith & Wesson's premium offerings. The finish adds $75-100 over matte alternatives but provides corrosion resistance beyond basic bluing. Value depends on prioritizing appearance over absolute reliability—for purely functional carry, consider spending $100 more for a proven S&W, or save $150 with a Taurus 856.
Key attributes
| upc | 678958253870 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 25387 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| barrel finish | High Polished Iridescent Cerakote |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 5 |
| color | Stingray |
| length | 10.3500 |
| model | Chameleon |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.9 |
| 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 +P .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Chameleon handles standard +P .38 Special loads according to Charter's specifications. I recommend limiting extended practice with +P due to increased wear on the crane and frame—stick to standard pressure for range sessions. Always verify ammunition meets SAAMI specifications before firing.
- Does it fit J-frame holsters?
- Most holsters designed for Smith & Wesson J-frame 2-inch models will accommodate the Chameleon's similar dimensions. The 1.32-inch cylinder width matches closely, though some molded kydex may require slight heat adjustment for the unique finish. Confirm compatibility with your holster manufacturer before purchase.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to licensed FFL holders completes within 3-5 business days after processing. You must provide your dealer's license before shipment—delays occur if paperwork isn't pre-arranged. Tracking updates appear within 24 hours of label creation.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Returns require unopened original packaging and occur within 30 days minus a 15% restocking fee. Firearms transfers through FFLs make returns complex—measure your grip span first (3.5 inches minimum for proper control). Consider handling a similar revolver at a range before purchasing.