Charter Arms Boomer: Compact .44 Revolver with Ported Barrel

Compact revolvers remain a favored choice for responsible carriers who want a blend of simplicity, reliability, and hard-hitting performance in a small package. For shooters who value straightforward operation and stout terminal performance without a bulky footprint, a careful look at modern compact big-bore options is warranted.

CHARTER ARMS BOOMER is a compact version of Charter Arms’ classic Bulldog platform, purpose-built for concealed carry with a five-shot capacity and a hard‑hitting chambering in .44 Special. The design keeps edges rounded for comfort in the pocket or holster, and the Boomer’s ported 2″ tapered barrel helps tame recoil while preserving the stopping power associated with .44 Special. Shop this product

Design and construction

CHARTER ARMS BOOMER traces its lineage to the Bulldog that made Charter Arms a household name since 1973. This compact model retains many hallmark features: a robust large-frame build, a four-point cylinder lock-up, and a full hammer block safety system designed to reduce the risk of accidental discharge in everyday carry scenarios. The Boomer’s barrel is engineered for strength, with a design heritage that includes barrels threading directly into the frame on Bulldog-pattern revolvers.

Finish, frame, and grip

The Boomer lists a Nitride finish that provides corrosion resistance and a low-reflective appearance, paired with a full rubber combat grip for secure handling and recoil mitigation. The product description also highlights a matte stainless look—practical for daily carry—while the 20 oz. unloaded weight strikes a balance between portability and recoil absorption.

Barrel and sights

The ported, tapered 2″ barrel is a standout feature. Porting redirects gas upward to reduce muzzle flip, which helps you get back on target faster from follow-up shots. The Boomer intentionally omits a protruding front sight to eliminate snag points during a draw, favoring a smooth profile for pocket or appendix carry. That choice emphasizes speed and concealability over a traditional sighting setup; operators who prefer a sighted option should test draw and target acquisition in safe conditions before fielding.

Mechanics and field use

CHARTER ARMS BOOMER ships as a double-action-only (DAO) revolver. The DAO hammer provides a consistent, deliberate trigger pull for each shot and simplifies training—there’s no external cocking or single-action mode to manage under stress. The five-shot cylinder is a classic Bulldog trait, offering straightforward reloading and a compact cylinder diameter suited to .44 Special rounds.

Caliber: .44 Special—what it brings

The Boomer’s .44 Special chambering is a middle ground between moderate recoil and meaningful terminal performance. Compared to lighter calibers commonly found in compact carry guns, .44 Special delivers increased momentum and larger frontal area from appropriately selected defensive loads. It’s not a substitute for shot placement and training, but in a short-barreled revolver it provides performance that many consider superior for a single-shot defensive encounter while still being more controllable than a full-power .44 Magnum. For those who plan to carry CHARTER ARMS BOOMER, selecting quality defensive .44 Special ammunition and practicing with the DAO trigger will yield the best real-world results.

Handling, concealment, and practical considerations

At roughly 20 oz. and with a 2″ barrel, CHARTER ARMS BOOMER is optimized for deep concealment where smooth edges and a snag-free profile matter. The rubber combat grips help maintain purchase with gloved or wet hands, and the compact footprint makes holster selection simpler for those who prefer minimal printing. Consider holsters designed for short-barrel revolvers and test draw stroke and retention before relying on any carry setup.

Price-wise, the Boomer is positioned competitively at $417.99, making it an attractive option for buyers who want a big-bore carry piece without a premium price tag. For current stock and precise specifications, View product details and pricing.

Training and maintenance

DAO revolvers are forgiving mechanically, but consistent training is essential. Focus on trigger control, reloads from the speed strip or moon clip alternatives where applicable, and drawing from your chosen concealment platform. Regular maintenance—cleaning the cylinder crane area, ensuring the porting remains unobstructed, and checking the cylinder lock-up—keeps the Boomer reliable. The nitride finish is low maintenance, but routine inspection after exposure to sweat or salt late in the day is good practice.

Who the CHARTER ARMS BOOMER is for

If you want a compact revolver that keeps things simple and delivers a stout .44 Special punch, the Boomer is a strong contender. It suits carriers who prioritize mechanical simplicity, those who want a backup gun with significant terminal energy, and shooters who value a rounded, snag-free profile for fast draws from concealment. Its combination of a 5-shot cylinder, ported 2″ barrel, DAO hammer, and full rubber combat grip makes it a practical tool for defensive-minded users who train regularly.

For availability and to see current inventory on the shop page—where you can complete a purchase through the retailer—Check current availability.

— John Wick & Garand Thumb

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.