Charter Arms Mag Pug .357 Mag 2.2in 5-Round Black Nitride

The Charter Arms Mag Pug .357 Mag 2.2in 5-Round Black Nitride is the quintessential backup revolver for the shooter who demands a compact package without sacrificing punch. This five-shot snubby is built around a steel frame with a black nitride finish that laughs at holster wear and sweat. It ships with a 2.2-inch barrel, fixed sights, and a full-size finger-grooved rubber grip that tames the .357 Magnum recoil. Whether you carry it as a deep-concealment piece or a trail gun, this Mag Pug delivers double- and single-action flexibility in a no-nonsense package. According to Charter Arms specs, the black nitride treatment is applied to the barrel, cylinder, and frame for corrosion resistance that lasts.

Manufacturer	Charter Arms
Model	Mag Pug
Material	Steel frame, steel barrel, steel cylinder
Compatibility	.357 Magnum / .38 Special +P
Finish	Black Nitride
Weight	21.5 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• 2.2-inch Barrel — Why it matters: Keeps the overall length tight for pocket or IWB carry while still giving enough velocity to expand defensive hollow points out of a .357 Mag.
• Black Nitride Finish — Why it matters: This isn’t just paint; it’s a salt-bath nitriding process that penetrates the steel surface, making it harder and slicker than standard bluing. Holster drag and sweat are non-issues.
• Full-Size Finger-Grooved Rubber Grip — Why it matters: Snub-nose .357s can be punishing. That grip fills your hand and soaks up recoil, letting you keep your sights on target for follow-up shots.
• Double/Single Action Trigger — Why it matters: You get the heavy, safe DA pull for carry and the option to thumb-cock for a lighter SA trigger when accuracy matters at the range.
• Fixed Sights — Why it matters: No snagging edges on a draw, and no adjustments to lose. They’re zeroed from the factory for typical defensive loads.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who appreciates a purpose-built snub that doesn’t need a gunsmith to run. It’s for the gun show regular who wants a classic American-made wheelgun that fits in a jacket pocket or an ankle rig. If you’re looking for a reliable .357 that won’t break the bank and can handle hot loads without complaint, the Mag Pug is your ticket.

Pros & Cons

• Pro: Steel frame gives it heft that tames recoil better than alloy-framed competitors.
• Pro: Black nitride finish is tougher than cerakote for everyday carry.
• Con: Fixed sights are not adjustable for windage or elevation — if you want a target revolver, look elsewhere.

Comparison: Charter Arms Mag Pug vs Ruger LCRx vs Smith & Wesson 642

Feature	Charter Arms Mag Pug	Ruger LCRx	Smith & Wesson 642
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Spl +P	.38 Special +P	.38 Special +P
Barrel Length	2.2 in	1.87 in	1.88 in
Capacity	5 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Frame Material	Steel (21.5 oz)	Polymer / Aluminum (13.5 oz)	Aluminum (15 oz)
Finish	Black Nitride	Hard Coat Anodized	Stainless / Matte
Trigger	DA/SA	DA only (LCRx is SA/DA)	DA only
Price	$444.61	$529 (approx)	$589 (approx)

The Mag Pug offers a steel frame and .357 Magnum capability at a lower price point than the Ruger or Smith. The trade-off is a bit more weight and fixed sights, but for a carry piece that can also shoot .38 Specials for practice, it’s a solid value.

FAQ

What is the barrel length of the Charter Arms Mag Pug .357 Mag?

The barrel is 2.2 inches, making it compact enough for concealed carry while still providing sufficient velocity for .357 Magnum defensive loads.

Does the Mag Pug come with adjustable sights?

No, it comes with fixed sights. They are set from the factory for typical defensive ammunition and are snag-free for a quick draw.

Can I shoot .38 Special in this revolver?

Yes, the Mag Pug is rated for .357 Magnum and .38 Special +P. Shooting .38 Special gives you lighter recoil for practice, while .357 Magnum is for carry.

What is the weight of the Charter Arms Mag Pug?

According to Charter Arms specs, it weighs 21.5 ounces unloaded. That steel frame adds heft but helps control recoil.

Is the finish durable?

The black nitride finish is a surface hardening treatment that resists corrosion and wear far better than standard bluing. It’s ideal for daily carry in humid or sweaty conditions.

Ready to Add the Mag Pug to Your Collection?

This Charter Arms revolver is a proven performer for concealed carry, trail use, or as a backup gun. Snag yours today and see why collectors keep coming back to the Mag Pug.

• ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✅ 30-day returns
• ✅ Secure checkout

Browse more options in our Revolvers category, or check out .357 Magnum Handguns and Concealed Carry Firearms.

Last updated: April 2026