Classic Charter Arms pathfinder stainless 3” versus modern pathfinder snubnose accuracy testing

Published on February 25, 2026
Duration: 13:22

This video from Cranky Gun Reviews details an accuracy test comparing a classic 1980s Charter Arms Pathfinder with a 3-inch barrel to a modern snubnose Pathfinder. The test, conducted at 10 and 6 yards using CCI Blazer 22LR ammunition, reveals that despite expectations, the smaller snubnose model performed comparably, and in some aspects better, than the longer-barreled classic. The reviewer notes subjective factors like sight preference and trigger feel influence perceived accuracy.

Quick Summary

In an off-hand accuracy test at 6 and 10 yards, the modern Charter Arms Pathfinder snubnose (approx. 2-inch barrel) performed comparably to the classic 3-inch barrel Pathfinder. The reviewer noted the snubnose had a slightly better trigger and sights, and the classic model tended to shoot high and left.

Chapters

  1. 00:30Classic Pathfinder Specs & Comparison Setup
  2. 01:21Model Differences: Barrel & Cylinder
  3. 02:00Accuracy Test Setup: 10 Yards
  4. 02:40Accuracy Test Setup: 6 Yards
  5. 03:16Testing Methodology & Subjectivity
  6. 05:49Classic Pathfinder Target Review
  7. 06:27Testing Snubnose Pathfinder
  8. 07:30Snubnose Pathfinder Target Review
  9. 09:18Overall Accuracy Observations
  10. 11:37Accuracy Summary: Classic vs. Snubnose

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the accuracy of a classic Charter Arms Pathfinder 3-inch barrel compare to a modern snubnose Pathfinder?

In an off-hand accuracy test at 6 and 10 yards, the modern Charter Arms Pathfinder snubnose (approx. 2-inch barrel) performed comparably to the classic 3-inch barrel Pathfinder. The reviewer noted the snubnose had a slightly better trigger and sights, and the classic model tended to shoot high and left.

What ammunition was used for the Charter Arms Pathfinder accuracy testing?

The accuracy testing for the Charter Arms Pathfinder revolvers utilized CCI Blazer 22 Long Rifle high velocity lead round nose ammunition. The reviewer mentioned having good luck with this specific brand and type for accuracy.

What are the key physical differences between the classic and modern Charter Arms Pathfinder models tested?

The classic Pathfinder has a 3-inch barrel and adjustable sights with white paint. The modern snubnose features a shorter barrel (approximately 2 inches) and a tighter barrel-to-cylinder gap. The modern cylinder is also slightly longer than the classic's.

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