As the name of the Less Than Lethal (LTL) brand owned by Chiappa suggests, this pistol is designed for reliable yet non-lethal self-defence. It fires rubber or pepper balls calibre .50, 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 hit the valve with the palm of your hand under the grip; this pierces the cartridge and the pistol is ready to fire. The valve is large enough to be easily tightened and loosened without tools and at the same time does not disturb 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 in.
Model Charlie 1.50 is made from metal internal components, which are then covered by a lightweight polymer frame and a robust metal slide. The slide is fixed and features fixed sights with a fibre optic insert to make aiming easier in low-light conditions. Unlike other LTL pistols, the Charlie is equipped with a detachable magazine, allowing you to reload quickly and continue shooting. To remove the magazine, simply push the ambidextrous lever in the middle of the slide downwards. For the possible installation of a laser or a tactical light, there is a short Picatinny rail under the barrel, and the only safety is integrated directly into the trigger blade.
NOTE: For the correct operation of the magazine, we recommend applying silicone oil to the inner walls of the magazine well or directly to the rubber projectiles. Using dry ammo in an unlubricated magazine may cause the weapon to jam.
Maintenance
Since the weapon is powered by CO2 cartridges, the rubber seals may, 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) by applying a few drops of silicone oil to the neck of the inserted cartridge, or 3) by 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 a while, release the pressure by loosening the valve.