The Charter Arms Undercover is a compact .38 Special revolver with a 2" barrel, 5-round capacity, and stainless steel finish. At 12 ounces (1 lb), it's one of the lighter .38 revolvers available. The small frame and short barrel make it a natural choice for concealed carry. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: Undercover 
• Manufacturer: Charter Arms 
• Caliber: .38 Special 
• Barrel Length: 2" 
• Capacity: 5 rounds 
• Weight: 12 oz (1 lb) 
• Frame Size: Small 
• Action Type: Single/Double Action 
• Grip Material: Black Rubber with Finger Grooves 
• Finish Type: Stainless Steel 
• Safety Feature: Transfer Bar Safety 
   

Detailed Features 

The transfer bar safety prevents firing unless the trigger is fully pulled, which is an important feature on a carry gun without an external safety. Black rubber finger groove grips help with control given the light weight. Fixed sights are simple and snag-free for a carry gun. The DA/SA trigger gives you both fast DA fire and a lighter SA option. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

The 2" barrel and 12 oz weight are tailored for concealed carry. Accuracy at extended range drops off sharply with such a short barrel, but for personal protection within typical defensive distances it's well-suited. The simple operation and minimal maintenance needs make it reliable for users who don't shoot frequently.

Charter Arms Undercover owners commonly cite the 12 oz weight and compact size as the main reasons for choosing it — it's easy to carry all day without noticing. The stainless steel finish holds up well under regular carry conditions.

Trigger feel gets positive reviews from most users, particularly for newer shooters who appreciate the DA pull as a built-in safety margin. Simplicity and low maintenance requirements come up frequently as practical advantages.

On the critical side, some units have had cylinder alignment and timing issues, which affects reliability. At distance, the 2" barrel limits accuracy noticeably. Some buyers feel alternatives at the same price point offer better build quality, so it's worth handling one before purchasing. The general recommendation in community discussions is to physically inspect or test-fire before buying.