Charter Arms Target Bulldog 4.2" .44 Special
Model: 74442
Charter Arms Target Bulldog 4.2" .44 Special
Model: 74442
Full Specifications
About This Firearm
The Target Bulldog is what happens when Charter stretches the basic Bulldog into a range and outdoor gun. The 4.2" stainless barrel adds about 100 fps to a standard 200gr .44 Spl load over the 2.5" snub, the rubber finger-grooved grip replaces the carry-oriented Bulldog grip, and the rear sight becomes a fully adjustable square notch — the first time the Bulldog action gets adjustable sights. Weight is 22 oz, 8.75" overall, still 5 rounds.
The Target Bulldog sits between the snub Bulldog 2.5" and the 6" optic-equipped Target Mastiff in Charter's lineup. The stainless construction makes more sense for woods carry and trail gun duty than the carbon steel snubs — sweat and weather are less of a concern. Adjustable sights matter because handloaders and shooters running different .44 Spl bullet weights (180gr versus 200gr versus 240gr) will see significant point-of-impact shifts that fixed-sight Bulldogs cannot correct for.
Best For
Strengths & Limitations
- Adjustable rear sight is the only one in Charter's .44 Spl lineup outside the optic-mounted Target Mastiff — required for handloaders running mixed bullet weights
- 4.2" stainless barrel adds about 100 fps over the 2.5" snub and resists weather better than the blued models
- Finger-grooved rubber grip soaks up more recoil than the standard Bulldog grip, making extended range sessions tolerable
- 8.75" overall length pushes it past comfortable concealed carry — this is a holster gun, not a pocket gun
- Sightmark optic and Picatinny rail are not available without stepping up to the larger Target Mastiff
Category Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Target Bulldog compare to the Target Mastiff?
The Target Bulldog is the smaller, lighter, sights-only option at 22 oz with a 4.2" barrel and adjustable iron sights. The Target Mastiff is a 6" revolver that ships from the factory with a Sightmark red dot mounted on a Picatinny rail. The Mastiff is the only Charter that offers a factory optic setup; the Target Bulldog appeals to shooters who prefer irons in a more portable package.
Will the adjustable sights handle a switch from 200gr to 240gr loads?
Yes. The fully adjustable square notch rear has enough elevation and windage travel to dial in both common .44 Spl bullet weights and most boutique loads. The Bulldog's slow 1:18" twist is optimized for heavier bullets, so 240gr loads typically shoot well once sighted in.
Can I install aftermarket grips on the Target Bulldog?
Yes. The Target Bulldog uses the same grip frame as the rest of the Bulldog line. Pachmayr Decelerator and Hogue Monogrip Bulldog versions both fit if you want more recoil absorption than the factory finger-grooved rubber.
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