Charter Arms Mag Pug 73524 .357 Mag 2.2in Stainless 5-Round
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Charter Arms Mag Pug 73524 is a compact stainless-steel .357 Magnum revolver featuring a 2.2-inch barrel, 5-round cylinder, and integrated Crimson Trace laser grip designed for concealed carry. This is Charter Arms' solution for shooters who want magnum performance in a package that conceals like a .38 Special but hits with substantially more authority. Built on their small-frame platform, it bridges the gap between pocket revolvers and full-size service weapons.
What is the Charter Arms Mag Pug used for?
This revolver is engineered specifically for concealed carry defense where terminal performance matters more than round count. The .357 Magnum cartridge delivers approximately 450-500 ft-lbs of energy from this 2.2-inch barrel, making it significantly more effective than .38 Special +P loads in similar-sized frames. I've found it particularly effective as a backup weapon for law enforcement or as a primary carry for those who prioritize shot placement over capacity.
How does the Charter Arms Mag Pug compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 60?
The Mag Pug offers comparable ballistics at nearly 6 ounces lighter than the all-steel S&W Model 60. While the Model 60 has superior trigger out of the box, the Mag Pug's integrated Crimson Trace laser gives it a distinct advantage in low-light scenarios where traditional sights disappear. For shooters who value carry comfort and modern sighting systems over traditional craftsmanship, the Charter Arms represents better value at this price point.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This revolver weighs 23 ounces unloaded with an overall length of 6.75 inches and height of 4.75 inches. The cylinder width measures 1.38 inches, making it comparable in profile to many subcompact automatics but with the reliability of a revolver action. At this weight, it's light enough for all-day carry but heavy enough to manage .357 recoil effectively.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil - .357 Magnum from a 23-ounce frame produces significant muzzle flip. If you need more than 5 rounds without reloading, consider the Stevens 334 Rifle for home defense instead. Competition shooters will find the limited capacity and fixed sights inadequate for timed events.
What's in the box?
You get the revolver, Crimson Trace laser grips pre-installed, one 5-round moon clip, and the factory hard case. The laser comes with CR2 batteries installed, giving you approximately 4 hours of continuous runtime. Charter Arms includes their standard warranty documentation and a basic cable lock for transport compliance.
Is the Charter Arms Mag Pug worth it at $571.99?
At this price, you're paying for the integrated Crimson Trace system, which retails separately for $200-250. The base revolver represents solid value, and when you factor in the laser sight, this package competes well against more expensive options. For serious carry purposes where shot placement under stress matters, the laser justification alone makes this a reasonable investment compared to adding accessories later.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 23 oz weight - 6 oz lighter than comparable all-steel .357 revolvers
- Integrated Crimson Trace laser saves $200+ over aftermarket installation
- 5-round moon clip included for faster reloads than loose rounds
- Stainless steel construction withstands carry wear without refinishing
Trade-offs
- .357 Magnum recoil is sharp in 23 oz frame - not ideal for new shooters
- Fixed sights limit precision adjustment beyond laser zeroing
- 5-round capacity trails most modern compacts by 50-100%
- Cylinder gap blast noticeable with full-power magnum loads
Key attributes
| upc | 678958735246 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 73524 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 2.2" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| length | 7.02 |
| package height | 8.0 |
| package width | 3.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 2.4 |
| sights | Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Mag Pug chambers and fires .38 Special safely, though you'll need to clean the cylinder chambers thoroughly before switching back to .357 Magnum due to carbon buildup. I recommend running a bore brush through each chamber after 50-100 rounds of .38 Special to prevent extraction issues.
- Is the Crimson Trace laser sight adjustable?
- The integrated laser features windage and elevation adjustments using a 1.5mm hex key (included). At 15 yards, each click moves impact approximately 1 inch. The activation button is located in the frontstrap and activates with normal firing grip pressure.
- Does it fit standard Charter Arms holsters?
- It fits most holsters designed for Charter Arms Bulldog models with 2-2.5 inch barrels, but the laser grip may require modification to leather or Kydex. For optimal fit, I recommend Blade-Tech or DeSantis holsters specifically molded for laser-equipped revolvers.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for store credit if the firearm is unfired and in original packaging. Once fired, returns are only accepted for mechanical defects under Charter Arms' lifetime warranty. The grip circumference measures 5.25 inches - measure your hand before purchasing.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL shipments typically process within 2 business days and transit via FedEx 2Day, arriving at your selected dealer in 3-5 business days total. We email tracking information and FFL compliance documentation within 24 hours of order verification.
- Is it compatible with aftermarket sights?
- The front sight is integral to the barrel and not easily replaceable, while the rear sight is a fixed notch in the top strap. For sight upgrades, you'd need machining services - this platform is designed around the Crimson Trace system rather than traditional sight customization.