The buzz about the launch of Charter Arms Coyote series may have started back in the summer of 2024, but it’s only now gaining widespread attention. That’s why we’ve put together a quick breakdown of this unique revolver. Below, we’ll highlight its features, purpose, and how it stacks up against traditional .38 Special revolvers. Let’s get into it!
Introducing the Charter Arms Coyote .380
The Charter Arms Coyote is a compact, lightweight DA/SA revolver designed for everyday carry, self-defense, and recreational shooting. What makes it stand out is its chambering in .380 ACP—a cartridge commonly used in semi-automatic pistols.
The design itself is robust, featuring a solid steel frame instead of side plates typical in some other revolvers. This adds strength and enhances durability. The Coyote also features a ported barrel, which minimizes muzzle flip, making it easier to stay on target for follow-ups. Aesthetically, the Coyote boasts diamond cuts on the barrel underlug and rosewood grips, combining functionality with a touch of flair.
Charter Arms Coyote .380 Specs:
- Caliber: .380 ACP
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Barrel Length: 2 inches
- Grips: Small rosewood checkered (standard models), Compact Rubber (Off Duty model)
- Sights: Fixed front and rear
- Safety: Hammer block safety
- Concealed Hammer: Off Duty Models only
- Weight: 14 ounces
- Special Features: Spurred hammer, 3-point cylinder lock-up
Models Available:
- Standard models:
- 53802 – Clear anodized frame, rosewood grips with high polished components
- 53805 – Pink anodized frame, rosewood grips with high polish components
- 53804 – Lavender anodized frame, rosewood grips with high polished components
- MSRP: $448.14
- Off Duty models
- 53801 – Clear anodized frame, compact rubber grips, stainless steel components
- 53812 – Pink anodized frame, compact rubber grips, stainless steel components
- MSRP: $434.56 (clear); $448.14 (pink)
Charter Arms Coyote 380 pros and cons:
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Mild recoil due to .380 ACP chambering
- Good fit and finish for its price range
- Suitable for beginners and those with less hand strength
- 2-inch ported barrel for less muzzle flip
Cons:
- Requires moon clips
- Fixed sights may require additional adjustments
Why the .380 ACP in a Revolver?
If you’re wondering, “Why chamber a revolver in .380 ACP?” that’s a fair question. The thing is the .380 isn’t a centerfire cartridge, meaning it’s not made for revolvers. Unlike typical rimmed revolver cartridges, like the closest rival of the .380ACP— the .38 Special,— the .380 ACP is rimless and requires moon clips. (By the way, the Coyote ships with two moon clips). While technically you can shoot the Coyote 380 ACP without moon clips, this doesn’t guarantee 100% primer ignition and you’ll need to eject spent cartridges manually.
Still, the .380 ACP has its advantages when paired with a revolver. To understand its strengths, it’s worth comparing the .380 ACP to the .38 Special first.
380 ACP vs 38 Spl in Revolvers
Recoil
The .380 ACP generates lighter recoil than the .38 Special, particularly its +P high-pressure loads. This makes it a great choice for newer shooters or those who want more control during rapid-firing scenarios.
Stopping Power
While the .38 Special offers better stopping power, the .380 ACP can still be effective for self-defense, especially when using proper hollow-point defensive ammo.
Size & Concealability
Because the Coyote is chambered in .380 ACP, the revolver itself can afford to be smaller and lighter than many .38 Special counterparts, making it a better EDC gun.
Compatibility
380 ACP requires moon clips for reliable operation and faster cartridge extraction. By contrast, .38 Special cartridges are rimmed, so they don’t require moon clips.
So, the .38 Special indeed offers better ballistic performance in terms of penetration and expansion than the .380 ACP. However, if shot in lightweight revolvers, .380 ACP has a milder kick, which means faster, more accurate, and more comfortable shooting. So while the .380 ACP can sometimes underperform in penetration, for close-range self-defense, it provides a manageable and reliable option.
Why the Charter Arms Coyote .380 Makes Sense
Long story short, .380 ACP is quite a good chambering for a lightweight revolver like the Coyote because, compared to .38 Spl, it makes shooting more comfortable, and recoil more manageable, especially with that ported barrel. The .38 Spl cartridge, on the other hand, would give a harder kick in a lightweight revolver due to a heavier bullet. This makes the Charter Coyote .380 an ideal choice for beginners, recoil-sensitive shooters, shooters with reduced hand strength, and those who don’t like shooting much.
Purpose and Use Cases
The Charter Arms Coyote .380 is designed for those searching for an easy-to-carry, easy-to-shoot revolver that balances practicality and comfort. While it may not be the ultimate self-defense weapon, it carves out a unique niche in the firearms market, offering a good option for individuals with specific needs. Remember, it’s not about the gun it’s about how good you are with it.