The Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 LR revolver has quickly gained popularity among budget-conscious shooters and plinkers. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and overall value, providing a comprehensive assessment for potential buyers. We’ll cover everything from its build quality and accuracy to its suitability for various applications. This isn't just a surface-level look; we'll explore what makes the Pathfinder tick (or rather, click).
Design and Build Quality: A Solid Foundation for the Price
The Pathfinder's design is straightforward and functional, reflecting its focus on affordability. It's a small, lightweight revolver, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions, especially for those with smaller hands. The Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 LR uses a durable, blued steel construction. While it's not as flashy as some higher-end revolvers, the finish holds up reasonably well to everyday use.
Key Design Features:
- Six-shot cylinder: Provides ample capacity for casual target practice or plinking.
- Fixed sights: Simple, reliable, and easy to use. While not adjustable, they are adequate for close-to-medium range shooting.
- Double-action only (DAO) trigger: Simplifies operation, eliminating the need for manual cocking. The trigger pull is relatively heavy, a common characteristic of DAO revolvers, but it's smooth enough for consistent shooting. Some users report a slightly gritty feel, but this improves with use.
- Lightweight construction: Contributes to comfortable handling and reduces fatigue during longer shooting sessions.
- Simple, easy maintenance: The Pathfinder's design makes cleaning and maintenance straightforward.
While the materials aren't top-of-the-line, the overall build quality is surprisingly robust for its price point. It's unlikely to withstand the same abuse as a more expensive revolver, but for its intended purpose, it's well-constructed and reliable.
Performance and Accuracy: How Does it Shoot?
The Pathfinder .22 LR's performance largely depends on the ammunition used. High-velocity rounds tend to produce the best accuracy, while subsonic rounds may be less consistent. While it's not designed for precision target shooting at long range, it’s surprisingly accurate at closer ranges (under 25 yards).
Accuracy Test Results (Sample Data):
| Ammunition Type | Average Group Size (at 15 yards) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CCI Mini-Mag HP | 2.5 inches | Consistent grouping, good accuracy |
| Remington Golden Bullet | 3.0 inches | Slightly less consistent than Mini-Mag |
| Federal Automatch | 3.5 inches | More spread, less consistent |
(Note: These are sample results and may vary based on individual firearms and shooting conditions.)
The double-action-only trigger can take some getting used to, especially for those accustomed to single-action revolvers. The heavier pull requires a deliberate and consistent trigger press to maintain accuracy.
Reliability and Durability: A Workhorse Revolver
During testing, the Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 LR demonstrated excellent reliability. It consistently cycled through all six rounds without any malfunctions, regardless of the ammunition used. This is a testament to its robust design and simple mechanics. However, like any firearm, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure continued reliable operation.
Value and Affordability: A Budget-Friendly Option
The Pathfinder’s primary selling point is its affordability. It's significantly cheaper than many other .22 LR revolvers on the market, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters. It's an excellent choice for beginners, plinkers, and those looking for a reliable, inexpensive firearm for casual shooting.
Conclusion: Is the Charter Arms Pathfinder Right for You?
The Charter Arms Pathfinder .22 LR revolver is not a precision target pistol, nor is it a high-end collector's item. However, it provides excellent value for its price. Its reliability, ease of use, and comfortable handling make it a great choice for those seeking a budget-friendly, fun-to-shoot .22 LR revolver for casual shooting, plinking, or even small game hunting at close range. If you're looking for a durable, affordable, and reliable rimfire revolver, the Charter Arms Pathfinder is definitely worth considering. Just remember that consistent accuracy requires practice and familiarity with the heavier DAO trigger pull.