As the name of the brand Less Than Lethal (LTL), owned by Chiappa, already suggests, this pistol is designed for reliable yet non-lethal self-defence. It uses rubber or pepper balls in .50 calibre for shooting, which are inserted into a cleverly concealed magazine under the barrel.
The pistol is powered by a single 12g CO2 cartridge, which is inserted into the grip. To activate it, simply strike the valve lightly with your palm under the grip, piercing the cartridge and making the pistol ready to fire. The valve is sufficiently large so it can be easily tightened or loosened without tools and at the same time does not disrupt the overall appearance of the pistol. When activated, an indicator pops up above the grip to show that the weapon is under pressure. To depressurise the pistol, simply push the indicator back inside.
Model Charlie 1.50 is made with metal internal components, which are then covered with a lightweight polymer frame and a robust metal slide. The slide is fixed and features fixed sights with a fibre-optic rod, making aiming easier in low-light conditions. Unlike other LTL pistols, the Charlie is equipped with a removable magazine, so you can reload quickly and continue shooting. To remove the magazine, simply push the ambidextrous lever in the middle of the slide downwards. For optional installation of a laser or a tactical light there is a short Picatinny rail under the barrel, and the only safety is located directly in the trigger blade.
NOTE: For the proper functioning of the magazine, we recommend applying silicone oil to the inner walls of the magazine well or directly onto the rubber projectiles. Using dry ammunition in an unlubricated magazine may cause the weapon to jam.
Maintenance
Since the weapon is powered by CO2 cartridges, the rubber seals can, over time, become brittle and crack due to the freezing carbon dioxide. You can prevent this by occasionally applying silicone oil 1) in spray form by simply spraying the internal mechanism, 2) applying a few drops of silicone oil to the neck of the inserted cartridge, or 3) using an oil cartridge (the easiest option). We also do not recommend leaving an activated cartridge in the weapon longer than necessary. If you know you will not be shooting for some time, release the pressure by loosening the valve.