Charter Arms Lavender Lady .38 Special 5-Shot Revolver
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 12 oz unloaded — 2.3 oz lighter than the S&W 442 J-Frame.
- Fixed-sight, DAO design eliminates external controls for snag-free draw.
- 7075-T6 aluminum frame resists corrosion better than polymer alternatives.
Trade-offs
- Limited to five rounds — reloading is mandatory for most defense scenarios.
- DAO trigger requires consistent 12-lb pull weight without the option for single-action.
- No front sight ramp or night sight option — precision is limited in low light.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Charter Arms Lavender Lady .38 Special 5-Shot Revolver is a compact, double-action-only revolver built on a lightweight aluminum frame specifically for discrete personal defense carry. Its 12-ounce total weight from the 7075-T6 alloy frame makes it a niche option, distinct from the all-steel construction typical of duty revolvers, while the fixed-sight configuration keeps the handling profile minimal. The .38 Special chambering offers established ballistic performance within the constraints of a five-round capacity.
What is the Charter Arms Lavender Lady used for?
This revolver is intended almost exclusively for discrete, close-range personal defense carried in a purse or on-body holster. The DAO trigger and fixed sights prioritize simple operation under stress rather than precision target shooting. At a 12-ounce unloaded weight, it's viable for all-day carry by shooters sensitive to bulk, but the limited caliber and capacity require disciplined threat-engagement training.
How does the Charter Arms Lavender Lady compare to a Smith & Wesson 442?
The Lavender Lady is functionally comparable to the Smith & Wesson 442 Centennial but at a lower price point, with a more pronounced cosmetic finish. Both are five-shot .38 Special J-frames with DAO triggers and aluminum frames; however, the S&W 442 typically weighs 14.3 ounces, making it 2.3 ounces heavier due to a more robust internal lockwork that many armorers consider more durable under sustained firing schedules. For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing the lightest possible carry weight, the Charter Arms wins; for those valuing long-term parts availability and aftermarket support, the Smith & Wesson is the better platform.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The unloaded weight is 12 ounces (340 grams) with an overall length of 6.63 inches from muzzle to butt and a barrel length of 2.125 inches. The cylinder width is 1.38 inches, and the grip height from the trigger guard to the base is 4.25 inches. These dimensions make it 0.8 inches shorter in overall length than a standard Stevens 334 rifle's action alone, emphasizing its concealment role.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not a suitable firearm for new shooters seeking a training platform, for home defense as a primary weapon, or for competitive shooting. The DAO trigger requires a consistent 12-pound pull weight, which demands dedicated practice to master. The five-round capacity and .38 Special +P pressure limitations (check your manual) render it inadequate for prolonged defensive scenarios without immediate reloading capability.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the revolver, one standard 5-round cylinder, a cardboard manual, and a hard plastic storage case. Unlike many rifles like the Stevens 555 shotgun, no cleaning kit, lock, or spare grips are included. Expect to budget an additional $30-$50 immediately for a suitable IWB or pocket holster and snap caps for dry-fire practice.
Is the Charter Arms Lavender Lady worth it at $394.99?
At this price point, it represents fair value for a functionally simple carry revolver with a specific aesthetic. The cost reflects the aluminum-frame construction and anodizing process, not premium fit-and-finish or advanced features. If your primary requirement is the absolute minimum weight for a centerfire defensive handgun and the lavender finish appeals to you, it's a justifiable purchase; if you prioritize trigger feel or aftermarket customization, allocate an additional $150-$200 for a base-model Smith & Wesson or Ruger LCR.
Key attributes
| upc | 678958538410 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 53841 |
| action | Double Action Only |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 2" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Special |
| capacity | 5 |
| length | 10.2500 |
| package height | 3.3 |
| package width | 8.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 1.85 |
| sights | Fixed Front |
| sights type | FIXED |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with +P .38 Special ammunition?
- Consult your specific manual, but most modern Charter Arms aluminum-frame revolvers are rated for limited use of standard-pressure +P .38 Special defensive loads—not for sustained high-volume training. I recommend no more than 50 rounds of +P annually for practice and carrying modern hollow points like Hornady Critical Defense.
- Does it fit standard J-Frame holsters?
- Yes, its dimensions are compatible with most holsters designed for a 5-shot Smith & Wesson J-Frame with a 2-inch barrel, such as those from DeSantis or Vedder. However, verify clearance for the unique lavender-anodized finish to avoid abrasion in leather or kydex.
- How long does shipping take?
- For FFL items like this, Ironclad Armory ships within 2 business days of cleared payment and FFL verification. Transit via FedEx Ground typically adds 3-5 business days to your selected FFL dealer's location. Delays can occur during NICS background check processing at the dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms are non-returnable after transfer at your FFL due to federal regulations. You may transfer or consign it through your local dealer, but direct returns to Ironclad Armory are prohibited once the 4473 is filed, except for legitimate warranty defects verified by Charter Arms.