The Charter Arms Undercover model 73824 is a compact five-shot .38 Special revolver with a 2-inch barrel, designed for deep concealment and close-range defense. It pairs a matte stainless barrel and cylinder with an integrated Crimson Trace laser grip for fast target acquisition. This charter arms undercover 73824 .38 special 2″ revolver is built around a small, concealable profile suited to everyday carry and close-range defensive use.
| Manufacturer | Charter Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Undercover 73824 |
| Material | Steel barrel and cylinder (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special ammunition |
| Finish | Matte Stainless |
| Weight | Approximately 16 ounces (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Integrated Crimson Trace Laser Grip — Why it matters: Allows for rapid, instinctive aiming in low-light or high-stress situations, reducing the need to align traditional sights.
- 5-Shot .38 Special Cylinder — Why it matters: Provides reliable, manageable recoil for defensive rounds, with a capacity that balances concealment and firepower.
- 2-Inch Barrel — Why it matters: Keeps the overall length short for pocket or IWB carry, while still delivering adequate velocity for self-defense loads.
- Matte Stainless Construction — Why it matters: Resists corrosion and reduces glare, making it ideal for daily carry in varied weather conditions.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the everyday carrier who wants a simple, reliable backup or primary concealed carry piece. It fits shooters who prefer a wheelgun over a semi-auto for its intuitive manual of arms and no-jam reliability. If you carry in a pocket, ankle holster, or inside-the-waistband, the Undercover’s slim profile and low weight make it a practical choice for all-day wear.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Lightweight at 16 ounces — easy to carry without printing.
- Pro: Crimson Trace laser adds quick target acquisition without modifying the gun.
- Con: Limited to 5 rounds — may require reload practice for extended engagements.
- Con: Fixed sights can be less adjustable than some competitors.
Comparison
| Feature | Charter Arms Undercover 73824 | Smith & Wesson Model 642 | Ruger LCR .38 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special | .38 Special | .38 Special |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight | 16 oz | 15 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Laser | Integrated Crimson Trace | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches | 1.875 inches | 1.875 inches |
| Price | $552.84 | $600+ | $550+ |
The Undercover stands out with its factory-installed laser grip, saving you the cost and hassle of aftermarket installation. It’s slightly heavier than the LCR but offers a steel frame for added durability.
According to Charter Arms specs, the Undercover has been a staple in the concealed carry market since the 1960s, with over 2 million units sold across all models. Last updated: April 2026.
FAQ
Is the Charter Arms Undercover 73824 reliable for everyday carry?
Yes. The Undercover uses a proven transfer-bar safety system and a steel frame, which provides consistent ignition and durability. Many EDC users report thousands of rounds without issues.
Does this revolver come with a laser?
Yes. The model 73824 includes an integrated Crimson Trace laser grip, which is factory-installed and sighted at 15 yards. It uses a button activation on the grip.
Can I use +P ammunition in this revolver?
Charter Arms recommends standard-pressure .38 Special for routine use. While +P can be fired occasionally, it may accelerate wear. Stick to standard loads for practice and carry.
What holsters fit the Undercover 73824?
Most holsters designed for 2-inch barrel .38 Special revolvers will fit. Look for options specifically for Charter Arms Undercover or small-frame snub-nose revolvers.
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