CA has gone threw several incarnations over the years. The original company founded back in the early 60's put out a decent product. Then in the late 80's they had some financial problems (like just about all of the gun makers) and reformed as Charco and then later Charter 2000. I believe it was during this period that QC suffered some short comings and their reputation took a big hit. In 2007 one of the early partners who had left just prior to the Charco/Charter 2000 time period had bought the company back, brought back the original Charter Arms name and to my understand had turned the company around and they are once again producing a very serviceable product.
Regarding their latest revolvers; I know aesthetically the fit and finish is below that of S&W, Ruger and maybe Taurus but I think that the strength and reliability is at least on a par with Taurus and possibly even that of S&W. And Ruger, well we all know you can drive 10 penny nails with a Ruger then take it out and shoot hot loads threw it all day until you can't stand it any more.
Okay enough history, I'll finally get to the point of this post. Anyone here have first hand experience with Charter Arms revolvers made in the past couple of years. I'm very interested to hear from you because I have the opportunity to purchase a 3 month old, shot very little, SS, hammerless Off Duty snub nose from an acquaintance for around $250. I'm thinking it would make a good purse gun for my wife (yes, she has a CCW). Sure, I would much rather go with a S&W or one of the new Ruger LCR's but my current finances won't permit it. Just try to find a Hammerless Ruger or Smith snuby for any where near $300, I've been searching for months.
