Charter Arms Mag Pug .357 Magnum 3-inch 5rd Revolver
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About this product
The Charter Arms Mag Pug is a compact, optic-ready .357 Magnum revolver built on a rugged steel frame with a 3-inch barrel that delivers reliable double/single-action performance in a 21-ounce package designed for practical carry and range use. It ships with a factory-installed micro red dot optic and integrated Picatinny rail, offering immediate capability without aftermarket modification. With its 5-round cylinder capacity and black passivate finish, it represents a dedicated entry in the compact magnum revolver category that prioritizes mechanical simplicity over high-capacity alternatives.
What is the Charter Arms Mag Pug used for?
The Charter Arms Mag Pug is built for defensive carry and controlled-range training where .357 Magnum ballistics are preferred over smaller calibers. Its 3-inch barrel provides improved velocity over snub-nose revolvers while maintaining a compact 7.2-inch overall length that conceals effectively in proper holsters. The included micro red dot optic facilitates rapid target acquisition during high-stress drills, making it suitable for shooters who train with optics but want revolver reliability.
How does the Charter Arms Mag Pug compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 686?
The Charter Arms Mag Pug offers superior concealability at 21 ounces versus the Model 686's 44.5 ounces, but sacrifices two rounds of capacity and full-sized sight radius. Where the 686 excels as a range and duty revolver with its 6-round cylinder and 4-6 inch barrel options, the Mag Pug prioritizes carry comfort and optic readiness with its integrated rail and factory-installed dot. For shooters needing deep concealment with magnum power, the Mag Pug delivers; for extended range sessions and maximum accuracy, the heavier 686 remains superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Charter Arms Mag Pug weighs 21 ounces empty and measures 7.2 inches in overall length with a 3-inch barrel height of 4.8 inches. These dimensions make it approximately 1.3 inches shorter in length than comparable compact semi-autos like the Glock 19 while delivering significantly more powerful .357 Magnum ballistics. The steel frame contributes to its manageable recoil impulse compared to lighter alloy-framed alternatives in the same caliber.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for beginners or shooters sensitive to recoil, as .357 Magnum generates approximately 4.5 times the muzzle energy of standard 9mm rounds. The 5-round capacity also makes it a poor choice for those requiring high-volume engagement capability, unlike the Stevens 334 Rifle which offers 4+1 round capacity in .308 Win for hunting applications. Competition shooters seeking fast reloads should consider semi-automatic platforms instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the revolver with installed micro red dot optic, one 5-round moon clip for rapid reloading, and a black combat rubber grip that provides 1.2 inches of purchase depth. Unlike the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun which includes choke tubes and a hard case, the Mag Pug ships in a basic cardboard box with minimal accessories to maintain its $555.99 price point. No additional sights or holsters are included, reflecting its purpose as a ready-to-shoot platform rather than a customizable project.
Is the Charter Arms Mag Pug worth it at $555.99?
At $555.99, the Mag Pug delivers strong value for shooters seeking an optics-ready .357 Magnum revolver that requires zero gunsmithing. The included micro red dot alone represents a $150-$200 value compared to aftermarket options, while the integrated Picatinny rail eliminates need for adapter plates that cost $40-$60. Compared to base model revolvers requiring extensive modification for optic mounting, the Mag Pug arrives range-ready—making it cost-effective despite its premium over non-optic models.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 21 oz — 23.5 oz lighter than Smith & Wesson Model 686
- Includes micro red dot optic — $150 value compared to aftermarket
- Integrated Picatinny rail — eliminates $40-60 adapter plate cost
- 3-inch barrel — delivers 1250 fps with .357 Magnum 125gr JHP
Trade-offs
- 5-round capacity — 1 less than most compact semi-autos
- Fixed sights — no adjustment for windage or elevation
- Black passivate finish — shows holster wear after 200-300 draws
- No thread protector — barrel not threaded for suppressors
Key attributes
| upc | 678958135350 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 13535 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Black Passivate |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 5 |
| length | 7.02 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 8.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 2.7 |
| sights | Fixed |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Trijicon RMR optics?
- No, the integrated Picatinny rail requires optics with standard rail mounting bases, not direct slide-cut patterns like the Trijicon RMR. The factory-installed micro red dot uses a proprietary mounting system specific to Charter Arms' rail geometry. Aftermarket adapters from EGW or UTG would be required for RMR compatibility, adding $50-75 to the total cost.
- Does it fit Safariland ALS holsters?
- No, the integrated Picatinny rail and 3-inch barrel profile prevent compatibility with standard Safariland ALS holsters designed for revolvers without accessory rails. Custom kydex holsters from companies like StandardCo or Tier 1 Concealed must be ordered, typically requiring 3-4 week lead times and costing $80-120. Verify barrel length and rail dimensions before ordering.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Shipping to licensed FFL dealers takes 3-5 business days once payment clears and background checks are completed. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required and tracking provided within 24 hours of shipment. International orders or shipments to restricted states may require additional 7-10 day compliance verification periods.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL dealer due to federal regulations prohibiting returns of serialized items. The combat rubber grip provides 1.2 inches of purchase depth—measure your hand width before purchasing. Aftermarket grip options from Hogue or Pachmayr may improve fit for an additional $30-50 if the factory grip proves unsuitable.