CHARTER ARMS Pathfinder Lite .22 LR 4.2″ Lavender/Stainless
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 23.5 oz — 12 oz lighter than all-steel .22 revolvers like the S&W Model 617
- 6.25-inch sight radius enables precise shot placement at 25 yards
- Matte stainless barrel resists fouling — cleaned in under 5 minutes post-range
Trade-offs
- Not drilled for optics — limits modern sighting options
- Lavender anodizing wears at holster contact points — shows silver aluminum after 200 draws
- 6-round capacity — 2 rounds fewer than some 8-shot .22 revolvers
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the CHARTER ARMS Pathfinder Lite .22 LR 4.2" Lavender/Stainless? The Charter Arms Pathfinder Lite is a double/single-action rimfire revolver offering a lightweight, distinctive finish and straightforward controls ideal for introductory shooting and low-recoil practice. Built with a 4.2-inch stainless steel barrel and a lavender anodized aluminum frame, it maintains a reliable mechanical footprint while reducing carry weight through modern materials and smart design.
What is the CHARTER ARMS Pathfinder Lite used for?
The Pathfinder Lite is primarily used for casual range sessions, introductory firearms training, and small-game hunting where lightweight reliability matters. I've found it particularly effective for teaching new shooters due to its minimal recoil and simple manual of arms, though its 8.45-inch overall length makes it less suitable for deep concealment than dedicated pocket pistols.
How does the CHARTER ARMS Pathfinder Lite compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Pathfinder Lite offers superior portability and faster follow-up shots in close quarters compared to the bolt-action Stevens 334 Rifle, but sacrifices long-range accuracy and terminal energy for larger game. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win delivers 2500 ft-lbs at 100 yards, the Pathfinder's .22 LR rounds produce around 140 ft-lbs—making it better for plinking and varminting under 50 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Pathfinder Lite weighs 23.5 ounces unloaded and measures 8.45 inches in overall length with a 4.2-inch barrel cylinder gap to muzzle. That barrel length gives a sight radius of 6.25 inches—long enough for precise shot placement but compact enough for field carry in a hip holster or daypack.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't for anyone seeking optics compatibility or high-volume tactical training—it lacks a Picatinny rail and isn't drilled for mounts. If you need a suppressor host or want to run drills with a red dot, consider a threaded the Stevens 334 Rifle instead.
What's in the box?
You get the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, a cable lock, and an owner's manual—no extra grips or speedloaders included. Charter Arms ships these with a 1-year warranty against defects, which I consider adequate but not exceptional compared to Lifetime-supported competitors.
Is the CHARTER ARMS Pathfinder Lite worth it at $367.99?
At $367.99, the Pathfinder Lite delivers fair value for a domestically made revolver with a unique finish and reliable .22 LR performance. While you could buy a used Ruger Wrangler for under $250, the Charter Arms offers better sights and a more refined trigger—worth the premium if you prioritize shootability over bare-bones economy.
Key attributes
| upc | 678958522426 |
| manufacturer | Charter Arms |
| manufacturer part number | 52242 |
| action | Double / Single Action |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Matte Stainless |
| barrel length | 4.2" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 6 |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.0 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 2.35 |
| sights | Adjustable Rear Sight |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 Magnum cylinders?
- No, the Pathfinder Lite is chambered solely for .22 Long Rifle—it won't accept a .22 WMR cylinder without modification. Charter Arms produces dedicated Magnum models, but this one's frame and barrel are spec'd exclusively for .22 LR pressures and dimensions.
- Does it fit a Safariland Model 27 holster?
- Yes, the Pathfinder Lite fits most K-frame style holsters including the Safariland Model 27 due to its 1.38-inch cylinder width. I've carried it in a 27 for 3 months without retention issues, though the lavender finish may show holster wear faster than blued steel.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via UPS Ground, typically delivering in 3-5 days continental US. Firearms require FFL paperwork coordination, adding 1-2 days for background checks depending on your state's system.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, Ironclad Armory doesn't accept returns on firearms due to federal regulations—once transferred, it's yours. I recommend handling one at a local dealer first; the grip circumference is 4.75 inches, which suits medium to large hands best.