Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Classic

**Mike Irwin** · April 4, 2013, 09:17 AM

Was just on the Charter Arms site and they're showing that they're going to bringing out a "classic" Charter Arms Bulldog .44.

Price, model, and release date are TBD, but it's apparently going to be the original configuration, with the unshrouded barrel and exposed ejector rod.

I may actually have to keep my eye out for one of these.

gunloony · April 4, 2013, 09:24 AM

FWIW that announcement has been on that site for well over a year with no changes.

I would like to have another original Bulldog if circumstances permit. I have always regretted donating my previous one to a burglar.

**Mike Irwin** · April 4, 2013, 10:45 AM

Well that's a bummer.

PetahW · April 4, 2013, 11:48 AM

You might wanna check out the finish description - IMO, it sounds like it might just be a blue-colored coating, and not blued carbon steel.

FWIW, I have a newer Stainless BD, that I like much better than the blued BD I had in the 70's - IMHO, it's much more controllable.

.

lowercase · April 4, 2013, 12:17 PM

I couldn't wait and just went out and got a nice older one.

My current production stainless Bulldog is still my EDC, though.

tnelson31 · April 4, 2013, 02:55 PM

I do not understand Charter's production schedules, been looking to _look_ at a Pitbull in 9mm.

Chesster · April 4, 2013, 09:45 PM

I have seen these on the site for a while. Still have a trio of original 3", one chopped to 2". With Compac grips, still the best fist full of SD you can get less than a pound and a half. I recall my first one and the only ammo available was WW or RP 246gr LRN. The CABD was the reason I began to handload.

Super Sneaky Steve · April 4, 2013, 10:02 PM

Old school is always cool, but I'd also like them to hop to it on building a .45 of any kind.

Theophilus · April 4, 2013, 11:59 PM

I believe the Classic .44 has been released already, about a year ago it was available through a few online retailers. It seems to be out of stock now, as far as I can tell. http://www.woodburyoutfitters.com/product_p/9595.htm
But my point is that it has been released, I do remember it being in stock at one point.
I've got my old one, so I haven't been able to justify this update... yet.

Mikef262 · April 24, 2013, 07:02 PM

Rather than start a new thread on this I figured I would ask my question here. I got a Charter Arms Bulldog 3 inch stainless all original from a family member passing. It appears to never have been fired, and its tempting to shoot it this weekend after I'm done turkey hunting, and about to leave. I just want to know if there has been any problems with the older charter arms, so that I don't go and shoot and break it. It has nothing wrong with it at all. Like I said brand new looking. I just don't want to ruin something with sedimental value.

lowercase · April 24, 2013, 07:14 PM

Mike, I'd take it out and shoot it, provided that it passes the normal revolver check out. Any problems that the gun may have should present themselves at the range.

I recommend getting some cowboy action loads for the range. Also, check the screws to make sure they are tight. Charters are like old Harleys and you have to be vigilant about screws loosening. Locktite will fix any problems with screws. There are four screws to check: The one that holds the crane, the one on the side of the frame (this one usually is the biggest culprit), the one on the cylinder release, and the itty-bitty screw that the cylinder pushes in to lock into place. Of note, this small screw must only be screwed in flush with the frame, or your cylinder won't open.

I bought a vintage Bulldog, and it started binding up at the range. Turns out that it was simply carbon build up on the leading edge of the cylinder and the gun was fine.

Good luck with your Bulldog. Should be a good little gun.

lc

Dan-O · April 24, 2013, 07:17 PM

Nothing to be concerned about. Charters aren't build to withstand oodles of stout .44 special loads. If you don't roll your own you might want to look for some cowboy velocity loads.

Chesster · April 24, 2013, 07:56 PM

As long as using standard pressure ammo, all should be fine. Shoot it.

Ozzieman · April 25, 2013, 08:04 PM

Lowercase is right about the screws but before you start cranking on them, make sure you have the proper sized driver. They are ease to mess up.
Also stay with rounds with bullets 220 GR or less weight. No +P’s. Cowboys are best.
I have one of the old stainless with the bobbed hammer. Great little gun.

Bart Noir · April 26, 2013, 02:35 PM

Several years back I bought a well-used early model all stainless CABD. And will not part with it. I just like it for the right steel and right size and right weight and right barrel length....but I'm preaching to the choir here, I suspect.

Anyway, it had issues and all but one are covered by the post from lowercase.

The pin above the trigger would move out during a range session. A bit of gentle peening convinced it to stay in place.

Bart Noir

Chesster · April 26, 2013, 02:58 PM

Add a pair of Compac rubber grips and the old dog is about perfect for up close social work.

Ozzieman · April 26, 2013, 07:26 PM

Chesster's right. The rubber grips are mandatory. Mine has Pachmayr’s grips and it really helps absorb recoil.
I’ve owned two bulldogs and I never shot ether with the original wooden grips, they fit my hands badly.

Deaf Smith · April 26, 2013, 09:54 PM

If Charter Arms would make a SERIOUS .44 Bulldog, that is high quality and bit more beefy construction I'd love one.

Now we are talking S&W quality of construction and materials. It can have a exposed ejector rod if only the whole gun is a bit thicker and stronger.

I never liked their thin bolt stops and one point lockup. And their ratchets are weak to.

If they would just fix those problems I'd love to have a 5 shot 2 inch barrel .44 snub!

Deaf

Chesster · April 26, 2013, 10:34 PM

Deaf, I think you are talking about a Smith 696. Great gun but hard to find and pricey.

Mikef262 · April 27, 2013, 11:10 AM

Very sad news....
First off I carpool with my buddy, so we don't have to waste as much gas.

I worked late, and he was at my house waiting for me.
I hurried home, and loaded all my stuff up into his car as fast as I could.
Got down here last night, and realize my bulldog and the box of 44 special is laying on my counter still... Very upset.

Deaf Smith · April 27, 2013, 07:33 PM

Chesster,

Sort of. The 696 should have been fixed sighted, no underlug, and a thinner 2 1/2 inch barrel.

They made it too heavy and with adjustable sights prone to snagging (after all, it was supposed to be concealment gun not a belt gun.)

Think about a 686 2 1/2 snub, but with a 5 shot .44 cylinder and barrel and fixed sights. Simple, powerful, and no sharp edges.

Deaf

Chesster · April 27, 2013, 09:04 PM

Well said Deaf. Taurus made a stab at it with the 3" 431. If you could take the best of the CA/S&W/Taurus you could probably come up with a perfect SD revolver for IWB carry. I have stock versions of each of these and see the good and bad with the designs. I also found this modified piece a few years back that some smith cobbled together. Stainless frame with bbl cut and sight replaced, grip frame replaced with a blued alloy I guess to cut weight and I added the rubber grips to improve shooting comfort. I also recall a gun magazine featuring a custom conversion of a Ruger Speed Six 2.75" converted to a 5 shot .44s. Would have loved to get my hands on that one.

lowercase · April 28, 2013, 02:48 AM

Since this thread is still alive and kicking, I figured that I might as well post a picture of my vintage Bulldog.

Chesster · April 28, 2013, 05:49 AM

Can't get enough l'case. I see yours has the latter vintage Bulldog grips found on the real "classic".

Ozzieman · April 28, 2013, 08:41 AM

Deaf, I think you are talking about a Smith 696. Great gun but hard to find and pricey.
I would rather see Ruger come out with a SP101 in a 5 shot 44. I have been e mailing Ruger once a month asking for that very thing. Imagine how many of those they would sell if they came out with one. I keep getting answers back, lawyerease and not at this time.
Deaf I disagree, your point is well taken but the advantage of the bulldog would be lost if they did the additions you suggested. Light weight and inexpensive. If they did, I would buy one in a second.
I think the gun you’re talking about is the other one in the photo I posted, the Taurus 445 which I don’t think they build any more. But it had a lot of reliability issues that required a good gunsmith.

April 4, 2013, 09:17 AM	#1
Mike Irwin Staff Join Date: April 14, 2000 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 41,642	Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Classic Was just on the Charter Arms site and they're showing that they're going to bringing out a "classic" Charter Arms Bulldog .44. Price, model, and release date are TBD, but it's apparently going to be the original configuration, with the unshrouded barrel and exposed ejector rod. I may actually have to keep my eye out for one of these. __________________ "The gift which I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind" -Theodorus Gaza Baby Jesus cries when the fat redneck doesn't have military-grade firepower.

April 4, 2013, 10:45 AM	#3
Mike Irwin Staff Join Date: April 14, 2000 Location: Northern Virginia Posts: 41,642	Well that's a bummer. __________________ "The gift which I am sending you is called a dog, and is in fact the most precious and valuable possession of mankind" -Theodorus Gaza Baby Jesus cries when the fat redneck doesn't have military-grade firepower.

April 24, 2013, 07:14 PM	#11
lowercase Senior Member Join Date: August 30, 2012 Posts: 287	Mike, I'd take it out and shoot it, provided that it passes the normal revolver check out. Any problems that the gun may have should present themselves at the range. I recommend getting some cowboy action loads for the range. Also, check the screws to make sure they are tight. Charters are like old Harleys and you have to be vigilant about screws loosening. Locktite will fix any problems with screws. There are four screws to check: The one that holds the crane, the one on the side of the frame (this one usually is the biggest culprit), the one on the cylinder release, and the itty-bitty screw that the cylinder pushes in to lock into place. Of note, this small screw must only be screwed in flush with the frame, or your cylinder won't open. I bought a vintage Bulldog, and it started binding up at the range. Turns out that it was simply carbon build up on the leading edge of the cylinder and the gun was fine. Good luck with your Bulldog. Should be a good little gun. lc Last edited by lowercase; April 25, 2013 at 01:46 AM.

April 26, 2013, 07:26 PM	#17
Ozzieman Senior Member Join Date: December 14, 2004 Location: Northern Indiana Posts: 6,117	Chesster's right. The rubber grips are mandatory. Mine has Pachmayr’s grips and it really helps absorb recoil. I’ve owned two bulldogs and I never shot ether with the original wooden grips, they fit my hands badly. Last edited by Ozzieman; February 12, 2017 at 07:27 PM.

April 4, 2013, 09:24 AM	#2
gunloony Member Join Date: April 6, 2012 Posts: 97	FWIW that announcement has been on that site for well over a year with no changes. I would like to have another original Bulldog if circumstances permit. I have always regretted donating my previous one to a burglar.

April 4, 2013, 11:48 AM	#4
PetahW Senior Member Join Date: September 19, 2008 Posts: 4,678	You might wanna check out the finish description - IMO, it sounds like it might just be a blue-colored coating, and not blued carbon steel. FWIW, I have a newer Stainless BD, that I like much better than the blued BD I had in the 70's - IMHO, it's much more controllable. .

April 4, 2013, 12:17 PM	#5
lowercase Senior Member Join Date: August 30, 2012 Posts: 287	I couldn't wait and just went out and got a nice older one. My current production stainless Bulldog is still my EDC, though.

April 4, 2013, 02:55 PM	#6
tnelson31 Member Join Date: September 12, 2012 Posts: 36	I do not understand Charter's production schedules, been looking to _look_ at a Pitbull in 9mm.

April 4, 2013, 09:45 PM	#7
Chesster Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,538	I have seen these on the site for a while. Still have a trio of original 3", one chopped to 2". With Compac grips, still the best fist full of SD you can get less than a pound and a half. I recall my first one and the only ammo available was WW or RP 246gr LRN. The CABD was the reason I began to handload.

April 4, 2013, 10:02 PM	#8
Super Sneaky Steve Senior Member Join Date: August 9, 2011 Posts: 1,330	Old school is always cool, but I'd also like them to hop to it on building a .45 of any kind.

April 4, 2013, 11:59 PM	#9
Theophilus Member Join Date: February 11, 2011 Location: Ozarks Posts: 92	I believe the Classic .44 has been released already, about a year ago it was available through a few online retailers. It seems to be out of stock now, as far as I can tell. http://www.woodburyoutfitters.com/product_p/9595.htm But my point is that it has been released, I do remember it being in stock at one point. I've got my old one, so I haven't been able to justify this update... yet.

April 24, 2013, 07:02 PM	#10
Mikef262 Senior Member Join Date: November 23, 2011 Location: Missouri Posts: 350	Rather than start a new thread on this I figured I would ask my question here. I got a Charter Arms Bulldog 3 inch stainless all original from a family member passing. It appears to never have been fired, and its tempting to shoot it this weekend after I'm done turkey hunting, and about to leave. I just want to know if there has been any problems with the older charter arms, so that I don't go and shoot and break it. It has nothing wrong with it at all. Like I said brand new looking. I just don't want to ruin something with sedimental value.

April 24, 2013, 07:17 PM	#12
Dan-O Senior Member Join Date: August 3, 2011 Location: Northern Colorado Posts: 969	Nothing to be concerned about. Charters aren't build to withstand oodles of stout .44 special loads. If you don't roll your own you might want to look for some cowboy velocity loads.

April 24, 2013, 07:56 PM	#13
Chesster Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,538	As long as using standard pressure ammo, all should be fine. Shoot it.

April 25, 2013, 08:04 PM	#14
Ozzieman Senior Member Join Date: December 14, 2004 Location: Northern Indiana Posts: 6,117	Lowercase is right about the screws but before you start cranking on them, make sure you have the proper sized driver. They are ease to mess up. Also stay with rounds with bullets 220 GR or less weight. No +P’s. Cowboys are best. I have one of the old stainless with the bobbed hammer. Great little gun.

April 26, 2013, 02:35 PM	#15
Bart Noir Senior Member Join Date: August 6, 2000 Location: Puget Sound, USA Posts: 2,215	Several years back I bought a well-used early model all stainless CABD. And will not part with it. I just like it for the right steel and right size and right weight and right barrel length....but I'm preaching to the choir here, I suspect. Anyway, it had issues and all but one are covered by the post from lowercase. The pin above the trigger would move out during a range session. A bit of gentle peening convinced it to stay in place. Bart Noir

April 26, 2013, 02:58 PM	#16
Chesster Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,538	Add a pair of Compac rubber grips and the old dog is about perfect for up close social work.

April 26, 2013, 09:54 PM	#18
Deaf Smith Senior Member Join Date: October 31, 2000 Location: Texican! Posts: 4,453	If Charter Arms would make a SERIOUS .44 Bulldog, that is high quality and bit more beefy construction I'd love one. Now we are talking S&W quality of construction and materials. It can have a exposed ejector rod if only the whole gun is a bit thicker and stronger. I never liked their thin bolt stops and one point lockup. And their ratchets are weak to. If they would just fix those problems I'd love to have a 5 shot 2 inch barrel .44 snub! Deaf

April 26, 2013, 10:34 PM	#19
Chesster Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,538	Deaf, I think you are talking about a Smith 696. Great gun but hard to find and pricey.

April 27, 2013, 11:10 AM	#20
Mikef262 Senior Member Join Date: November 23, 2011 Location: Missouri Posts: 350	Very sad news.... First off I carpool with my buddy, so we don't have to waste as much gas. I worked late, and he was at my house waiting for me. I hurried home, and loaded all my stuff up into his car as fast as I could. Got down here last night, and realize my bulldog and the box of 44 special is laying on my counter still... Very upset.

April 27, 2013, 07:33 PM	#21
Deaf Smith Senior Member Join Date: October 31, 2000 Location: Texican! Posts: 4,453	Chesster, Sort of. The 696 should have been fixed sighted, no underlug, and a thinner 2 1/2 inch barrel. They made it too heavy and with adjustable sights prone to snagging (after all, it was supposed to be concealment gun not a belt gun.) Think about a 686 2 1/2 snub, but with a 5 shot .44 cylinder and barrel and fixed sights. Simple, powerful, and no sharp edges. Deaf

April 27, 2013, 09:04 PM	#22
Chesster Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,538	Well said Deaf. Taurus made a stab at it with the 3" 431. If you could take the best of the CA/S&W/Taurus you could probably come up with a perfect SD revolver for IWB carry. I have stock versions of each of these and see the good and bad with the designs. I also found this modified piece a few years back that some smith cobbled together. Stainless frame with bbl cut and sight replaced, grip frame replaced with a blued alloy I guess to cut weight and I added the rubber grips to improve shooting comfort. I also recall a gun magazine featuring a custom conversion of a Ruger Speed Six 2.75" converted to a 5 shot .44s. Would have loved to get my hands on that one.

April 28, 2013, 02:48 AM	#23
lowercase Senior Member Join Date: August 30, 2012 Posts: 287	Since this thread is still alive and kicking, I figured that I might as well post a picture of my vintage Bulldog.

April 28, 2013, 05:49 AM	#24
Chesster Senior Member Join Date: September 6, 2007 Location: Dixie Posts: 2,538	Can't get enough l'case. I see yours has the latter vintage Bulldog grips found on the real "classic".

April 28, 2013, 08:41 AM	#25
Ozzieman Senior Member Join Date: December 14, 2004 Location: Northern Indiana Posts: 6,117	Deaf, I think you are talking about a Smith 696. Great gun but hard to find and pricey. I would rather see Ruger come out with a SP101 in a 5 shot 44. I have been e mailing Ruger once a month asking for that very thing. Imagine how many of those they would sell if they came out with one. I keep getting answers back, lawyerease and not at this time. Deaf I disagree, your point is well taken but the advantage of the bulldog would be lost if they did the additions you suggested. Light weight and inexpensive. If they did, I would buy one in a second. I think the gun you’re talking about is the other one in the photo I posted, the Taurus 445 which I don’t think they build any more. But it had a lot of reliability issues that required a good gunsmith.