The Charter Arms Pitbull is a double/single action revolver chambered in .40 S&W. It holds 5 rounds and has a 4.2-inch barrel. Weight is 22 oz (1.25 lbs). The finish is matte stainless. The grip is black finger groove rubber. Sights are adjustable front and rear. A key feature is that it chambers .40 S&W rimless cartridges without moon clips, using a patented extraction system built into the cylinder. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Charter Arms 
• Model: Pitbull 
• Caliber: .40 S&W 
• Action: DA/SA (Double Action/Single Action) 
• Capacity: 5 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 4.2 inches 
• Weight: 1.25 lbs (22 oz) 
• Sights: Adjustable Front & Rear 
• Grip Type: Black Finger Groove Rubber 
• Finish: Matte Stainless 
   

Detailed Features 

The rimless extraction system is what separates the Pitbull from a standard revolver chambered for semi-auto cartridges. Charter Arms designed a spring-loaded extractor in each cylinder chamber that grips the rimless .40 S&W case for ejection, eliminating the need for moon clips. The DA/SA trigger gives you a long double-action pull for the first shot or a cocked single-action pull for precision work. Adjustable sights let you zero the gun rather than holding a correction. The rubber finger groove grip absorbs recoil and positions the hand consistently. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

At 22 oz and 4.2 inches of barrel, the Pitbull works for concealed carry or home defense. The .40 S&W caliber carries more energy than 9mm from a short barrel, which is one reason some buyers choose it for defensive use. The 5-round capacity is a genuine trade-off versus a semi-auto, though reloading a revolver is simpler under stress for some users.

Owners of the Charter Arms Pitbull .40 S&W tend to have a clear view of what they're buying: a compact revolver that runs a semi-auto cartridge without moon clips.

The rimless extraction feature is the main reason most people buy it. Being able to chamber .40 S&W, ammunition that's widely available and shares components with many semi-auto defensive loads, in a revolver format without the hassle of moon clips is a real selling point. Most owners report this works as described.

Build quality is described as solid if not refined. The stainless finish holds up to use, though fit and finish on some examples has drawn criticism. Reliability is generally reported as good, with some owners noting extraction issues when using certain ammunition. The trigger pull and recoil management are acceptable for the caliber and weight.

The compact size draws favorable comments for carry, and the price is competitive for a stainless revolver. Accuracy at self-defense distances is rated well; at longer distances the short barrel and sight radius are limiting factors.