The Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm 4.20in Stainless 5-Round is a large-frame revolver built for shooters who want reliable double- and single-action performance in a defensive package. Chambered in 9mm, this stainless steel five-shot fits the role of a range companion or a heavier carry piece for those who prefer a wheelgun over a semi-auto.
| Manufacturer | Charter Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Pitbull |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and barrel (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | 9mm Luger ammunition |
| Finish | Satin stainless |
| Weight | Approximately 25 oz unloaded (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 4.20-inch Barrel — Why it matters: That extra inch over snub-nose revolvers gives you a longer sight radius for more precise shots at the range or in a defensive scenario.
- Five-Round Cylinder — Why it matters: Keeps the profile manageable for carry while still offering enough capacity for most self-defense situations without adding bulk.
- Double/Single Action Trigger — Why it matters: Lets you shoot heavy and smooth in DA for quick follow-ups, or cock the hammer for a lighter SA trigger press when you need accuracy.
- Finger-Grooved Rubber Grip — Why it matters: Soaks up recoil from 9mm loads and locks your hand in place for consistent grip under stress or rapid fire.
- Satin Stainless Finish — Why it matters: Resists rust and corrosion from sweat or humidity, so this revolver holds up to daily carry without looking beat up.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits the shooter who wants a no-fuss defensive tool that runs on 9mm—common, cheap, and easy to find. It works for anyone who prefers the manual of arms of a wheelgun: point, pull, repeat. If you carry a larger-frame revolver for belt or shoulder holster use, or you want a range revolver that doesn’t break the bank, the Pitbull delivers.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Solid stainless construction, easy to clean and maintain. The 4.20-inch barrel balances accuracy with carryability. Uses standard 9mm ammo without moon clips—just load and shoot. Double-action trigger is smooth enough for defensive work, and the single-action pull is crisp for aimed shots. Price point under $500 makes it accessible for most budgets.
Cons: The cylinder release is a bit stiff out of the box—expect a break-in period. The five-round capacity is lower than most modern semi-autos, so you’ll want to carry a speedloader or spare cylinder. The grip is comfortable but doesn’t offer interchangeable backstraps for different hand sizes.
Comparison
| Feature | Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm | Smith & Wesson Model 686 4-inch | Ruger GP100 4-inch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | .357 Magnum / .38 Special | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 7 rounds | 6 rounds |
| Weight | ~25 oz | ~40.5 oz | ~40 oz |
| Finish | Satin stainless | Stainless | Stainless |
| Price | ~$465 | ~$850 | ~$750 |
| Moon Clips Required | No | No (with .38/.357) | No (with .38/.357) |
The Pitbull trades some capacity and caliber versatility for a lighter, more affordable package that uses cheaper 9mm ammo. If you’re on a budget or want a dedicated 9mm wheelgun, it wins on price and weight. The S&W and Ruger offer more power and capacity but cost nearly double.
FAQ
Does the Charter Arms Pitbull 9mm require moon clips to eject spent casings?
No, the Pitbull uses a patented ejection system that doesn’t need moon clips. Just open the cylinder, push the ejector rod, and the spent casings drop free. This is one of its best features for quick reloads.
Can I use +P or +P+ ammunition in this revolver?
Charter Arms recommends using standard-pressure 9mm ammunition for best reliability and longevity. +P loads are okay for occasional defensive use, but avoid +P+ as it can accelerate wear on the cylinder and frame. Stick with 115- or 124-grain FMJ for the range.
Is the 4.20-inch barrel version good for concealed carry?
It’s on the larger side for IWB carry, but it works well with a shoulder holster, OWB belt holster, or in a range bag. The weight and barrel length make it more of a duty or range revolver than a pocket gun. If you want something smaller, look at the 2.2-inch barrel Pitbull.
What is the warranty on the Charter Arms Pitbull?
Charter Arms offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Pitbull for the original owner. It covers defects in materials and workmanship. Register your purchase online to activate it.
Does this revolver have a transfer bar safety?
Yes, the Pitbull includes a transfer bar safety mechanism. It prevents the hammer from contacting the firing pin unless the trigger is fully depressed, so you can carry all five chambers loaded without worry.
Trust & Delivery
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states (FFL required for handguns)
- ✅ Ships within 1-2 business days from our warehouse
- ✅ 30-day return policy on unused firearms (restocking fee may apply)
- ✅ Secure checkout with encrypted payment processing
Last updated: April 2026
Browse more options in our Revolvers category, or check out 9mm Handguns and Self-Defense Firearms for alternatives.





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