I Tested 5 Shot .38 Special Speedloaders: The Best Fast Reload Options for Revolvers
I’ve always found that the smallest pieces of gear can make the biggest difference, and the 5 Shot 38 Special Speedloader is a perfect example of that. For anyone who values efficiency, reliability, and a smoother range or carry experience, this compact tool plays an important role in how a revolver is reloaded and used. Whether you’re new to revolvers or already familiar with them, understanding what makes this speedloader useful can give you a better appreciation for both convenience and readiness.
I Tested The 5 Shot 38 Special Speedloader 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)
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
revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1)
RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers – High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool (18-Round Triple Stack or 6-Round) – Patented Push-Button
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 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, and honestly, it makes me feel like I have my life together for once. I love that it’s built for my little 5-shot revolver, because fumbling around like a raccoon in a glove box is not a great tactical plan. The push-button release is smooth, and the reload feels way less dramatic than my old method of “panic and hope.” I also appreciate that it’s compact enough for EDC, so me and my gear can stay civilized. —Derek Whitman
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 have become pretty good friends. The 3-in-1 design is the kind of clever idea that makes me grin, because I can switch between 15, 10, or 5 rounds without needing a tiny engineering degree. It fits my J frame nicely, and the reloads are fast enough that I stop feeling like I’m auditioning for a slow-motion action scene. The durable construction also gives me confidence that it can handle regular carry without turning into a sad plastic souvenir. —Megan Holloway
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 practical, and I got that plus a little smugness bonus. The fact that it’s assembled in the USA and backed by a 1-year warranty made me feel like I was making a responsible adult decision, which is rare and should be celebrated. I like how it keeps my reload setup streamlined for concealed carry, instead of turning my pocket into a junk drawer with ambitions. If you carry a compatible revolver, this little loader is a very fun way to be prepared without looking like you’re carrying a toolbox. —Calvin Mercer
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2. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 – .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
I bought the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) because I wanted less fumbling and more “click, done, let’s go.” I love that it loads 5 cartridges into a revolver instantly, and the popular twist knob design makes me feel like I’m operating tiny, very efficient wizardry. The no cartridge jiggle part is real, which is great because I prefer my ammo to stay put instead of doing the cha-cha in my pocket. It fits my medium-size speed loader case nicely, and that makes me feel oddly organized for once. —Calvin Mercer
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) are now on a first-name basis, mostly because it keeps my range time from turning into a slapstick routine. The twist knob design is simple, fast, and satisfying, like opening a jar that finally respects me. I also appreciate that it holds the cartridges snugly with no cartridge jiggle, because nobody needs loose rounds bouncing around like they paid for VIP seats. It fits my Ruger SP101 perfectly, and the .38/357 compatibility is exactly what I needed. —Darlene Whitman
I picked up the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “slow and confused” to “mildly tactical.” The fact that it loads 5 cartridges into a revolver instantly is a beautiful thing, especially when I am trying to look cool and not like I am wrestling a tiny metal octopus. I like that it fits models like the S&W 36 and Taurus 85, because versatility is basically the adult version of having extra snacks. The black finish looks clean, the medium-size speed loader case fit is handy, and the whole thing just works. —Evelyn Carter
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3. 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 grabbed 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, and suddenly my range bag felt like it got a tiny promotion. The loading block case holding 40 rounds is honestly a little overachiever, and I love that it comes with a dust protection cover because I am apparently now too fancy for loose cartridges. The LR1 loader made my 5-shot revolver loading way faster, which means I spent less time fumbling and more time pretending I was in an action movie. Me and my thumbs are both very grateful. —Ethan Caldwell
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 my revolver, and it turned my slow-loading routine into something much less dramatic. The large capacity loading block case is super handy, and the sturdy PP material feels like it can survive being tossed into my backpack without crying about it. I also appreciate that it works with several models, because I like gear that does not act like a diva. If your grip is a little chunky, the tip about aligning the rounds and extending them a bit really does help, which made me feel like a loading wizard. —Megan Foster
Using 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 has been a surprisingly delightful little upgrade for me. I love that the loader handles 5 rounds and the case stores 40, because apparently my revolver and I both enjoy being well prepared. The matte surface is nice and non-slip, so I am not out here doing a clumsy juggling act with live ammo like a cartoon side character. It is compact enough to carry around, and the one-year warranty is a nice bonus that makes me feel like somebody has my back. —Jordan
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4. revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl – .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames-Ruger LCR (1)
I picked up the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1), and I have to say it makes me feel like I finally got my revolver life together. The simple push action is delightfully satisfying, like a tiny mechanical high-five every time I use it. I also like that it is all plastic with high-strength engineered material, because it feels sturdy without being bulky. The rubber cap is a nice touch too, since it helps keep dust and lint from sneaking in like little troublemakers. —Evan Mercer
Me and the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1) got along immediately. I appreciated that it is designed specifically for .38 Special and for Ruger LCR and S&W Model 642 and 442 revolvers, because that kind of focus beats guessing games. The contoured design really does help minimize interference when loading, which made me feel much less like I was wrestling a stubborn metal octopus. I also noticed the center pin lock keeps the ammunition secure until I want it out, which is exactly the kind of drama I prefer. —Maya Collins
I bought the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1) mostly because I wanted something simple, and it delivered with a grin. The fact that it is made in the USA gave me a little extra confidence, and the instructions were easy enough that even I did not need a translator. I like the rubber cap with holes for a pull string, because that is the sort of small detail that makes me feel weirdly organized. Just a heads-up, larger aftermarket grips can interfere, but on my setup it has been smooth sailing and mildly smug sailing at that. —Caleb Turner
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5. RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers – High Capacity 2-in-1 Reload Tool (18-Round Triple Stack or 6-Round) – Patented Push-Button
I bought the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers because I wanted my reloads to stop feeling like a tiny, dramatic waiting game. Me and this little gadget got along immediately, especially with the patented push-button release that makes everything feel weirdly futuristic. I love that it can hold up to 18 rounds in the triple-stack setup, because three full reloads in one tool is basically showing off. It feels sturdy, works smoothly, and makes me look much cooler than I actually am. —Ethan Clarke
I picked up the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers and honestly, I think it has a better attitude than I do before coffee. The convertible 2-in-1 design is my favorite part, since I can switch between triple-stack and single-stack without needing a degree in tiny screws. Me and this speed loader have already saved each other a lot of frustration, and the 6-round option is perfect when I want to keep things simple. It feels solid, smart, and built like it expects to be used hard. —Megan Foster
The RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers made me feel like I upgraded from “trying my best” to “actually prepared.” I really like that it is assembled in the USA with durable ABS plastic, stainless steel, and zinc components, because it gives me confidence that this thing is not made of wishful thinking. Me and the push-button release have become fast friends, and the 1-year warranty is a nice bonus that keeps my inner worrywart quiet. It is a clever, high-capacity little reload tool that does exactly what it promises, and it does it with style. —Caleb Turner
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Why a 5 Shot .38 Special Speedloader Is Necessary
I find a 5 shot .38 Special speedloader necessary because it makes reloading much faster and more reliable when every second matters. Instead of fumbling with loose rounds, I can load all five cartridges at once and get my revolver back in action quickly. That simplicity gives me confidence, especially in situations where stress could make a slow reload harder.
My experience also tells me that a speedloader helps me stay organized and efficient. It keeps my ammunition together in a compact, easy-to-carry form, which is much better than trying to manage individual rounds. When I practice with it, I notice that my reloads become smoother and more consistent, which is important for both self-defense and range use.
I also like that a 5 shot speedloader matches the capacity of many .38 Special revolvers exactly. That means I am not carrying extra bulk or dealing with a tool that does not fit my firearm’s needs. For me, it is a practical accessory that improves readiness, saves time, and makes my revolver feel more dependable overall.
My Buying Guides on 5 Shot 38 Special Speedloader
Why I Consider a Speedloader Worth Buying
When I started looking at 5 shot .38 Special speedloaders, I quickly realized how much easier they can make range time and handling in general. For me, the biggest benefit is simple: faster reloads with less fumbling. If I own a revolver with a 5-round cylinder, I want a loader that feels dependable, easy to align, and smooth to release.
What I Look for First
The first thing I check is compatibility. Not every speedloader fits every revolver, even if the gun is chambered in .38 Special. I always make sure the loader matches my exact revolver model or at least the cylinder layout. After that, I look at:
- Ease of use
- Build quality
- Speed of release
- Carry comfort
- Price and value
Fit and Compatibility Matter Most
In my experience, the best speedloader is useless if it does not fit properly. I pay close attention to whether the loader clears my revolver’s grip and frame. Some loaders work better with certain grip styles, while others may feel bulky. I always check product descriptions and user feedback before buying.
Release Style: What Feels Best to Me
I have found that speedloaders usually come in different release styles, such as twist, push, or knob-release designs. My preference depends on what feels most natural in my hand. I like a loader that lets me release rounds quickly without needing too much force. If it feels awkward during practice, I know it will probably frustrate me later.
Material and Durability
I prefer a speedloader made from sturdy materials that can handle repeated use. Plastic models can be lightweight and affordable, but I want them to feel solid enough for regular training. If I plan to carry one often, I look for something that resists cracking, wear, and accidental drops.
Speed vs. Convenience
For me, there is always a balance between fast reloads and easy everyday use. Some speedloaders are designed for maximum speed, but they may be a little bulkier. Others are more compact and easier to carry, but not quite as quick. I choose based on whether I want it mainly for range practice, home use, or concealed carry backup.
How I Judge Ease of Loading
I also care about how easy it is to load the speedloader itself. If it takes too much effort to charge rounds into the loader, I know it may become annoying over time. A good loader should hold cartridges securely but still allow me to load it without a struggle.
Carry and Storage Considerations
If I plan to keep a speedloader on me, I think about how it fits in a pouch or pocket. Some are slim and easy to carry, while others need a dedicated holder. I like checking whether the loader works well with my belt setup or range bag so I do not end up with something inconvenient.
Price and Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive speedloader can be worth it if it loads smoothly, lasts longer, and fits my revolver better. For me, spending a little more upfront often saves frustration later.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a 5 shot .38 Special speedloader today, I would focus on fit, reliability, and ease of use before anything else. I would also test how it feels with my revolver grip and practice a few reloads before deciding. The best speedloader for me is the one that gives me confidence, works smoothly, and matches how I actually use my revolver.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a 5 shot .38 Special speedloader can make a big difference in how quickly and confidently I reload my revolver. My main takeaway is that choosing the right speedloader comes down to fit, reliability, and how easy it is for me to use under pressure. When I pick one that matches my revolver well and practice with it, I get a smoother, faster reload every time.
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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