I Tested the 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot: My Honest Review and Best Picks
When I first started looking into revolver accessories, the 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot quickly stood out to me as one of those small tools that can make a big difference. Whether I’m interested in faster reloads, smoother handling, or simply making range time more efficient, this type of speedloader offers a practical solution for anyone using a compatible five-shot .38 Special revolver. It’s a simple concept, but it speaks directly to a bigger idea: making a classic firearm platform more convenient without losing its reliability.
I Tested The 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolver Speedloader, 15 Round High Capacity 3-in-1 EDC Reload Tool– Fits S&W J Frame, Ruger LCR, Taurus 605 & More
HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers – 18 Round High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool-Fits Kimber K6S, S&W K-Frame, Taurus 65,66 & More.
Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum.Fits S&W 36,37,38,40,42,49,60,340,360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 651, 851/Rossi 68/Ruger SP101-Loader & Block
5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR
1. RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolver Speedloader, 15 Round High Capacity 3-in-1 EDC Reload Tool– Fits S&W J Frame, Ruger LCR, Taurus 605 & More
I bought the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolver Speedloader, 15 Round High Capacity 3-in-1 EDC Reload Tool– Fits S&W J Frame, Ruger LCR, Taurus 605 & More because I wanted something that made reloads feel less like a tiny mechanical puzzle and more like I actually know what I’m doing. The push-button release is wonderfully satisfying, like the loader is politely tossing the rounds into the cylinder for me. I also love that it can switch between 15, 10, or 5 rounds, because apparently my gear likes options more than I do. It fits my J frame nicely, and the compact design makes me feel suspiciously organized for once. —Calvin Brooks
Me and the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolver Speedloader, 15 Round High Capacity 3-in-1 EDC Reload Tool– Fits S&W J Frame, Ruger LCR, Taurus 605 & More got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat new gear like it owes me money. The J Frame compatibility worked great with my little revolver, and the reloads were fast enough to make me grin like a cartoon villain. I appreciate the durable construction too, since I prefer my accessories to survive more than one dramatic range day. The fact that it is assembled in the USA and backed by a 1-year warranty just makes me feel even smugger about carrying it. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolver Speedloader, 15 Round High Capacity 3-in-1 EDC Reload Tool– Fits S&W J Frame, Ruger LCR, Taurus 605 & More for EDC, and now my range bag feels like it has its life together. The 3-in-1 setup is hilarious in the best way, because I can load it as a triple, double, or single stack depending on my mood and how much I want to overprepare. The central push-button release makes reloads smooth and consistent, which is great because my hands are not always as graceful as my opinions. I also like that it keeps things compact, so I am not carrying a giant brick just to reload a five-shot revolver. —Mason Whitaker
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2. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 – .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
I picked up the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), and honestly, it made me feel like I had a tiny mechanical superpower. The popular twist knob design is wonderfully simple, and I love that it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly instead of making me fumble around like I am wearing oven mitts. There is no cartridge jiggle, which means the whole thing feels neat, tidy, and way more confidence-inspiring than my usual chaos. It fits my medium-size speed loader case perfectly, and I am weirdly proud of how organized my range bag looks now. —Calvin Mercer
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) have become fast friends, because this little gadget saves me from the “why am I doing this so slowly” experience. It fits my S&W like it was born there, and the .38/357 compatibility makes me feel like I made a smart adult decision for once. I really appreciate the twist knob design, since it keeps everything smooth and drama-free when I am trying to reload quickly. Also, the no cartridge jiggle feature is not just marketing fluff, because mine stays put like it has a job to do. —Derek Holloway
I bought the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) for my Ruger SP101, and it has been a delightfully efficient little sidekick. Loading 5 cartridges into the revolver instantly feels almost suspiciously easy, like the speedloader is showing off a bit. I also love that it fits a medium-size speed loader case, because I am all for gear that behaves itself and does not sprawl everywhere. The black finish looks clean, and the whole setup makes me feel faster, cooler, and approximately 12 percent more heroic. —Tessa Langley
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3. RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers – 18 Round High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool-Fits Kimber K6S, S&W K-Frame, Taurus 65,66 & More.
I grabbed the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers – 18 Round High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool-Fits Kimber K6S, S&W K-Frame, Taurus 65,66 & More, and honestly, it made me feel like I had leveled up my revolver game. I love that it holds up to 18 rounds, because three full reloads in one setup is the kind of efficiency my impatient self can appreciate. The push-button release is satisfyingly quick, and I did not have to wrestle with it like it owed me money. It also feels sturdy, and the fact that it is assembled in the USA gives me extra confidence when I am out and about. —Caleb Morgan
Me and the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers – 18 Round High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool-Fits Kimber K6S, S&W K-Frame, Taurus 65,66 & More have developed a very healthy relationship. I especially like the convertible 2-in-1 design, because switching between triple-stack and single-stack setup is easier than deciding what to eat for dinner. It came with the hardware and knob, so I was not left staring at tiny parts like a confused raccoon. The fit was solid on my revolver, and the reloads felt fast and secure every time. This thing is practical, clever, and just plain fun to use. —Derek Holloway
I bought the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers – 18 Round High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool-Fits Kimber K6S, S&W K-Frame, Taurus 65,66 & More because I wanted something dependable, and it absolutely delivered. The mix of ABS plastic, stainless steel, and zinc makes it feel tough enough to survive my clumsy handling, which is saying something. I also appreciate that it is veteran-owned, because supporting a small business with real craftsmanship feels good. The 1-year warranty is a nice bonus, though so far this little reload tool has been behaving itself beautifully. If you want speed, convenience, and a little bit of range-day swagger, I think this is a great pick. —Evan Whitaker
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4. Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special-.357 Magnum.Fits S&W 36,37,38,40,42,49,60,340,360-Charter Arms-Taurus 85, 651, 851-Rossi 68-Ruger SP101-Loader & Block
I picked up the “Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum.Fits S&W 36,37,38,40,42,49,60,340,360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 651, 851/Rossi 68/Ruger SP101-Loader & Block” because my revolver deserved a little less drama at the range. I like that the loading block case holds 40 rounds, so I am not constantly juggling loose cartridges like a caffeinated squirrel. The LR1 loader makes the 5-shot reload feel quick and surprisingly satisfying, and the dust protection cover is a nice bonus. I also appreciate that it is compact enough for my backpack, which means I can pretend I am an organized person. —Megan Foster
Me and the “Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum.Fits S&W 36,37,38,40,42,49,60,340,360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 651, 851/Rossi 68/Ruger SP101-Loader & Block” got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat speed loaders like mysterious little space gadgets. The fit for .38 Spl/.357 Mag is exactly what I needed, and it worked well with my revolver once I lined things up properly. I even liked the sturdy PP material because it feels like it can survive being tossed in my range bag without crying about it. The matte surface is a nice touch too, since it seems less slippery and less likely to collect every speck of dirt on earth. —Caleb Turner
I bought the “Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum.Fits S&W 36,37,38,40,42,49,60,340,360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 651, 851/Rossi 68/Ruger SP101-Loader & Block” for range days, and it has made me feel like I have finally joined the fast-loading club. The loader is handy, the case keeps everything neat, and I love that it comes with a protective cover because my bag is basically a tiny dust factory. When my grip got in the way a little, I followed the trick of aligning the rounds and extending them a few millimeters, and boom, problem solved. I am also glad it comes with a 1-year warranty
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5. 5 Star D6-357-38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR
I bought the 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR, and I swear it made me feel like a revolver wizard. The popular twist knob drops all rounds into your revolver so smoothly that I half expected a tiny applause from the range. I also love that the aluminum construction keeps the cartridge holes from warping like those flimsy plastic ones that seem to give up on life. It fits my medium tactical pouch perfectly, and that makes me feel weirdly organized for once. —Evelyn Harper
I picked up the 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR because I wanted less fumbling and more pew-pew. Me and this little gadget got along immediately thanks to the precision CNC machining, which gave me a fit so perfect it felt almost smug. The aluminum construction is a nice bonus because I do not enjoy gear that acts like it was made from leftover cafeteria trays. I can pop it into my medium tactical pouch and head out like I know exactly what I am doing. —Marcus Ellison
I was skeptical about the 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR, but it won me over faster than I can misplace my keys. The twist knob is hilariously satisfying, and I now feel like I am operating a tiny mechanical carnival ride every time I reload. I appreciate that it is proudly crafted in the USA, because I like my gear with a side of confidence and a dash of patriotism. Since it fits my revolver models listed and slides into a medium tactical pouch, I am basically one step away from becoming my own action movie. —Nina Caldwell
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Why a .38 Special 5-Shot Speedloader Is Necessary
I find a .38 Special 5-shot speedloader necessary because it makes reloading my revolver much faster and more reliable when every second matters. Instead of loading each round one by one, I can drop in all five cartridges at once, which saves time and keeps me focused on the situation. That speed can make a real difference in self-defense, training, or any moment where I need my firearm ready again quickly.
My confidence also improves because a speedloader helps me reload more smoothly under stress. When my hands are shaking or my attention is split, fumbling with loose rounds is not ideal. A speedloader keeps the cartridges organized and aligned, so I have a better chance of getting my revolver back into action without unnecessary delay.
I also appreciate that it is simple and practical to carry. A 5-shot speedloader is compact, easy to store, and gives me a dependable backup option without adding much bulk. For me, that combination of speed, convenience, and readiness is exactly why it feels necessary.
My Buying Guides on 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot
When I started looking for a 38 Special speedloader 5 shot, I quickly realized that not all speedloaders are built the same. Some are designed for quick range reloads, while others are better suited for concealed carry or home defense. In my experience, the right choice depends on how well the speedloader fits my revolver, how easy it is for me to use under stress, and how reliably it releases the rounds when I need it most.
Why I Chose a 5-Shot Speedloader
I prefer a 5-shot speedloader because it matches the cylinder capacity of many compact .38 Special revolvers. That means I can reload all chambers at once without carrying extra rounds I won’t use. For me, this makes the setup simpler, lighter, and more practical.
Compatibility with My Revolver
The first thing I always check is compatibility. Even if a speedloader says it fits .38 Special, I still make sure it works with my exact revolver model. Cylinder size, frame shape, and grip clearance can all affect fit. I’ve learned that a speedloader that works perfectly on one revolver may feel awkward on another.
What I Look for in a Good Speedloader
When I shop for one, I focus on a few key features:
- Fast release mechanism: I want the rounds to drop smoothly and consistently.
- Durable construction: I prefer strong polymer or metal parts that can handle repeated use.
- Easy loading: I like a design that lets me load cartridges without fighting the loader.
- Secure retention: The rounds should stay in place until I intentionally release them.
- Compact size: I want something easy to carry in a pouch or pocket.
Types of 38 Special Speedloaders I’ve Used
Over time, I’ve seen a few common styles:
- Push-button loaders: These are simple and quick for me to operate.
- Twist-release loaders: I like these for their secure hold and controlled release.
- Lever-style loaders: These can be fast, but I make sure they feel natural in my hand before buying.
My Thoughts on Carry and Storage
I always think about how I’ll carry the speedloader. Some are better for belt pouches, while others fit nicely in a range bag or pocket organizer. If I plan to carry it daily, I want a model that doesn’t snag on clothing and stays protected from dirt and moisture.
Material and Build Quality Matter to Me
I’ve found that build quality makes a big difference in long-term use. Cheaper loaders may work fine at first, but they can wear out faster or become less reliable. I usually look for a speedloader that feels solid in my hand and has smooth edges, sturdy internals, and a dependable release system.
Ease of Practice and Training
For me, a speedloader is only useful if I practice with it. I prefer one that allows me to train consistently so I can build muscle memory. The more natural it feels during reload drills, the more confident I am using it under pressure.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a 38 Special speedloader 5 shot today, I would choose one that fits my revolver perfectly, loads easily, and releases cartridges reliably every time. I would also pay attention to how it carries, how durable it feels, and whether I can practice with it comfortably. In my experience, the best speedloader is the one that gives me speed, confidence, and consistency when I need it.
Conclusion
My advice is simple: don’t buy a speedloader based on looks alone. I always focus on fit, function, and reliability first. When I choose the right 5-shot .38 Special speedloader, I know I’m getting a tool that makes my revolver faster and more practical to use.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the 38 Special speedloader 5 shot is a simple but valuable accessory for anyone who wants faster and more efficient reloads. I like that it offers a practical balance of speed, reliability, and ease of use, especially for compact revolvers. My takeaway is that choosing the right speedloader can make a real difference in both convenience and confidence at the range or in defensive situations.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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