The Charter Arms Chic Lady (Part Number: 53849) is a .38 SPL double-action-only revolver with a 2-inch barrel and a lavender anodized 7075 aluminum alloy frame paired with a high-polished stainless barrel. At 12 oz, it's a genuinely light carry gun for personal defense. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: Chic Lady (Part Number: 53849) 
• Caliber: .38 SPL 
• Action Type: Double Action Only 
• Capacity: 5 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Weight: 12 oz (0.75 lbs) 
• Frame Material: 7075 Aluminum Alloy 
• Finish Color: Lavender Anodized Frame & Hi-Polish Stainless Barrel 
   

Detailed Features 

The double-action-only system allows quick follow-up shots without manual cocking. Fixed sights keep operation simple. The black rubber grip has finger grooves for a secure hold during recoil. A transfer bar safety prevents discharge unless the trigger is fully pressed. 
 
The 12 oz weight makes the .38 SPL recoil noticeable in extended sessions, but the trade-off is a gun that disappears in a handbag or small holster. The lavender frame is a deliberate design choice. It sets the gun apart visually and has clearly resonated with a specific buyer demographic. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Concealed Carry: Small dimensions allow carry in a purse or compact holster. 
• Home Defense: .38 SPL at this barrel length is adequate for close-range defensive use. 
• Range Practice: Manageable for short sessions; the light frame amplifies felt recoil over time.

The Charter Arms Chic Lady in .38 SPL with lavender anodized finish draws consistently mixed but largely positive feedback. The distinctive color is the most-discussed feature. Buyers either specifically want it or find it irrelevant. Many women shooters cite the appearance as a reason they chose it over more conventional options.

The compact 12 oz build is well-regarded for daily carry, and the double-action-only operation gets praised for its simplicity, particularly from users who prefer revolvers over semi-automatics for reliability reasons.

Recoil is the most common complaint. A 12 oz aluminum-frame revolver chambered in .38 SPL has real recoil, and users with smaller hands or less shooting experience note that extended range sessions are uncomfortable. The 5-round capacity also comes up as a limitation, though most users acknowledge the trade-off is inherent to the platform.

Price-to-performance ratio gets good marks. Reliability with standard .38 SPL loads is generally reported as solid; occasional issues with specific +P or non-standard ammunition types are mentioned sporadically.