Why did I want this gun Again?!?!? Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special - is it really special?

Published on July 15, 2023
Duration: 7:04

This review of the Charter Arms Bulldog in .44 Special highlights its historical significance and potential for self-defense, while also addressing its significant recoil and high ammunition costs. The presenter, with extensive shooting experience, finds the gun's recoil manageable but uncomfortable for extended range sessions, suggesting it's more suited for defensive use. The high cost of .44 Special ammunition is a major deterrent, leading the owner to consider reloading.

Quick Summary

The Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special is not ideal for range practice due to its stout recoil, which can be uncomfortable for extended shooting. While manageable for self-defense, the high cost of .44 Special ammunition, often around $1 per round for target loads, is a significant deterrent for owners.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Why This Gun Again?
  2. 00:07Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special Overview
  3. 00:15Hammer Type & Manufacturer Details
  4. 00:29Sights and Capacity
  5. 00:41Original Hammer vs. Installed Hammer
  6. 00:47Original Case and Paperwork
  7. 01:01Reason for Original Sale: Recoil
  8. 01:06Blued Version with Bobbed Hammer
  9. 01:19Barrel Material and Caliber Markings
  10. 01:31Shooting the .44 Special: First Impressions
  11. 01:40Recoil with Rubber Grips
  12. 01:47Shooting Double Action
  13. 01:52Not a Range Gun: Self-Defense Potential
  14. 01:59Finger Discomfort from Trigger
  15. 02:07Recoil Comparison: .38 Special +P
  16. 02:20Second Reason for Original Sale: Ammunition Cost
  17. 02:36Heavy Round in Lightweight Gun
  18. 02:43Increased Shooting Experience
  19. 02:59Iconic and Infamous Status
  20. 03:04Son of Sam Connection
  21. 03:11Ammunition Cost: Then vs. Now
  22. 03:19PMC Bronze Self-Defense Ammo Price
  23. 03:32Target Ammo Cost: $1 Per Round
  24. 03:44Purchase Price and Value
  25. 03:50Considering Reloading
  26. 03:53Regret Selling: Unique Gun
  27. 03:58Seeking Original Bobbed Hammer
  28. 04:07Conclusion: Cranky Gun Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special was originally sold?

The primary reasons for selling the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special were its stout recoil, which made it uncomfortable for extended shooting, and the high cost of ammunition. The .44 Special round is a large, heavy cartridge that generates significant felt recoil in a lightweight firearm.

Is the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special a good gun for range practice?

No, the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special is generally not considered a good gun for range practice. The significant recoil from the .44 Special cartridge, especially with heavier loads, makes it uncomfortable for prolonged shooting sessions. It's better suited for self-defense applications.

How does the recoil of the Charter Arms Bulldog .44 Special compare to other firearms?

The recoil of the .44 Special in the Charter Arms Bulldog is described as more stout than a standard .38 Special and potentially comparable to a .38 +P in an ultralight firearm. It's also noted as being heavier than a standard .45 ACP round fired from a lightweight gun.

What is the typical cost of .44 Special ammunition?

The cost of .44 Special ammunition is quite high. Target loads can cost around $1 per round ($50 for a box of 50), and self-defense rounds are similarly expensive. This high price is a significant factor for owners of .44 Special firearms.

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