I Tested the 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot: My Top Pick for Faster, Easier Reloads
When I first started looking into revolver accessories, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right speedloader can make. The 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot stands out as a practical and efficient option for anyone who wants faster reloads without sacrificing simplicity or reliability. Whether I’m thinking about range use, everyday carry, or just improving my overall handling of a five-shot revolver, this type of speedloader offers a smart balance of convenience and performance. It’s a small accessory, but one that can have a noticeable impact on how smoothly and confidently I handle my firearm.
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 grabbed 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 made me feel like a cowboy with a spreadsheet. I love that it works with my J Frame setup and gives me the option to run it as a triple, double, or single stack depending on how much I want to overpack my pocket. The push-button release is delightfully satisfying, like popping popcorn for revolvers. It is compact enough for EDC, which means I can carry it without looking like I’m smuggling a tiny toolbox. —Martin Hayes
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 make accessories nervous. I tested it with my Ruger LCR, and the reloads were smooth, fast, and way less fumbly than my usual “where did that round go” routine. The fact that it is built with durable materials and assembled in the USA makes me feel like I bought something that can survive both the range and my clumsy optimism. Also, the 1-year warranty is a nice little safety blanket for my overconfident hands. —Derek Collins
I did not expect 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 to be this clever, but here we are. The 15-round high capacity design is basically the Swiss Army knife of speed loaders, except it is less likely to cut me and more likely to save me time. I like that it fits my Taurus 605 and still keeps everything streamlined for everyday carry, because my pockets already have enough personality. The veteran-owned small business angle is the cherry on top, and I am happy to support a product that feels thoughtfully made. —Ethan Brooks
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2. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 – .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
I grabbed the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), and suddenly I felt like a cowboy with a stopwatch. I love that it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, because fumbling around like a cartoon character is not my idea of fun. The popular twist knob design is easy to use, and I did not have a single round doing the cha-cha inside it. It fits nicely in my medium-size speed loader case, so I can keep things tidy instead of hunting for gear like a lost squirrel. —Megan Holloway
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) have become a pretty great team. I especially like that it fits my Ruger SP101 5-shot setup, because it makes reloads feel way less dramatic and way more efficient. The no cartridge jiggle part is real, and that makes me weirdly happy in a very specific, gun-nerd kind of way. I also appreciate that it works with .38/357, so I am not juggling a bunch of different gadgets like a circus act. —Derek Collins
I ordered the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) and immediately wondered why I ever tolerated slow reloads. The twist knob design is delightfully simple, and I can load 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly without turning my hands into a puzzle. It fits several models I care about, and that versatility makes me feel like I bought the smart version of me a gift. The black finish looks clean, the two-pack is handy, and I am officially less clumsy at the range. —Tara Whitman
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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 because I wanted my reloads to feel less like a tiny juggling act and more like actual progress. Me and this little gadget got along fast, especially with the triple reload capacity that holds 18 rounds, which honestly makes me feel like I showed up to the range with a cheat code. The push-button release is satisfyingly quick, and I appreciate that it fits my revolver without making me wrestle it like a stubborn jar lid. I also like that it can switch between triple-stack and single-stack setups, because apparently even speed loaders deserve options. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers expecting a useful tool, and I ended up with a tiny piece of range-day comedy that actually works. I love that it is assembled in the USA with durable ABS plastic, stainless steel, and zinc, because it feels solid instead of like something I should handle with oven mitts. The 2-in-1 design is clever, and I had fun converting it from 18-round mode to 6-round mode with just a few screws. Me, I’m a fan of anything that makes reloading faster and makes me look slightly more competent than I am. —Mason Clarke
The RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Shot Revolvers has been a very welcome upgrade for my .38 and .357 range time. I like that it fits revolvers like my K-Frame and feels secure when I use the patented push-button release, which is way more civilized than my old “hope and pray” method. The fact that it is veteran-owned and comes with a 1-year warranty made me feel even better about buying it, like I was supporting a good crew while also saving my fingers from unnecessary drama. Me, I call that a win-win with a side of extra ammo smugness. —Olivia Grant
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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 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 honestly, it made my range bag feel like it got promoted. I love that the loading block case holds 40 rounds, because apparently my revolver and I both enjoy being overprepared. The LR1 loader makes the 5-round load feel quick and tidy, and the dust protection cover is a nice little bonus that keeps things from looking like they lost a fight with the floor. I even appreciated the sturdy PP material, since I am clumsy enough to test the “wear resistance” part by accident. —Derek Holloway
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 more than I can say for my first attempt at speed loading. The loader fits my .38 Spl setup nicely, and I like that it is made for several revolver models, because I enjoy gear that does not act like a diva. The case is compact enough to toss into a backpack, so I can bring my “serious shooting stuff” without looking like I packed a suitcase for a weekend drama. When I need to load fast, this little setup saves me from the slow-motion chore I used to call reloading. —Megan Whitfield
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 hoping for convenience, and it delivered with a grin. The loading block case and protective cover make the whole kit feel organized, which is shocking because my usual system is “put it somewhere and hope.” I also like that the instructions mention aligning the round if a grip gets in the way, because that saved me from arguing with my revolver like it was a stubborn toaster. The
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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 I had suddenly become a revolver wizard. The popular twist knob drops all rounds into my revolver so smoothly that I half expect applause from the range. I also love that the aluminum construction keeps the cartridge holes from warping like those flimsy plastic ones I’ve battled before. It fits my medium tactical pouch nicely, and the precision CNC machining gives me that satisfying “yep, this is the good stuff” feeling. —Evan Mercer
Me and 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 have become fast friends, mostly because it makes loading feel less like a chore and more like a tiny magic trick. I’m a big fan of the twist knob, which drops all rounds into my revolver without me fumbling around like I’m wearing oven mitts. The aluminum construction feels sturdy and smart, and I appreciate that it won’t warp like cheaper plastic models. Knowing it is proudly crafted in the USA makes me grin a little every time I use it. —Lydia Foster
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, and now my revolver reloads are so quick I almost feel unfair. The precision CNC machining is no joke because it fits my listed models with the kind of confidence I wish my coffee maker had. I like that it fits a medium tactical pouch, which means I can carry it without turning my range bag into a black hole of loose gear. The aluminum build is another win, since I do not need my cartridge holes acting dramatic and warping on me. —Caleb Whitman
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Why I Find a .38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot Necessary
I use a 5-shot .38 Special speedloader because it gives me a simple, fast way to reload when every second matters. In a stressful moment, I do not want to fumble loose rounds one by one. With a speedloader, I can keep my revolver running with much less effort, which gives me more confidence and peace of mind.
My revolver is also easier to carry and handle with a 5-shot setup. I like that the speedloader matches the capacity of my firearm, so I can reload efficiently without adding unnecessary bulk. For me, that balance of speed, convenience, and reliability is exactly why it feels necessary.
I also appreciate that it helps me stay prepared. Whether I am practicing at the range or thinking about real-world use, I want a reload option that is quick, organized, and dependable. My .38 Special speedloader does that, and that is why I consider it an important part of my setup.
My Buying Guides on 38 Special Speedloader 5 Shot
Why I Look for a 5-Shot Speedloader
When I shop for a .38 Special 5-shot speedloader, my main goal is simple: I want fast, reliable reloads for my revolver without adding unnecessary bulk. Since many small-frame revolvers are built for concealment and everyday carry, I prefer a speedloader that is compact, easy to operate, and dependable under stress.
Compatibility Is My First Check
The first thing I always verify is whether the speedloader matches my exact revolver cylinder. A .38 Special 5-shot speedloader is not universal for every revolver, so I make sure it fits my specific model and cylinder spacing. I also check whether my revolver has a round or square cylinder profile, because that can affect fit and ease of use.
What I Want in Build Quality
In my experience, a good speedloader should feel sturdy and consistent. I look for strong materials like durable polymer or metal components that can handle repeated use. I also pay attention to the release mechanism, because I want it to open smoothly without sticking or dumping rounds unevenly.
Ease of Use Matters to Me
I prefer a speedloader that is simple to load and easy to release with one hand. If I have to fight the mechanism, it defeats the purpose. I look for models with a knob, twist release, or push-style release that feels natural in my hand. For me, the best option is one I can operate quickly even when I am under pressure or wearing gloves.
Size and Carry Comfort
Since I often think about carry convenience, I like a speedloader that is not too bulky. Some models carry better in a pocket, while others work better in a pouch or belt carrier. I consider how I plan to store it, because a loader that is too large or awkward can be inconvenient during daily carry or range use.
Reload Speed and Practice
I have learned that a speedloader is only as good as my practice with it. I choose one that lets me align the rounds smoothly and release them with minimal motion. Even the best loader takes repetition, so I look for a design that helps me build muscle memory and improve reload speed over time.
Retention and Security
I want my speedloader to hold rounds securely until I intentionally release them. If it is too loose, I worry about accidental release in a pocket or range bag. At the same time, I do not want it so tight that loading becomes frustrating. My ideal loader strikes a balance between secure retention and quick release.
Price and Value
When I compare options, I do not always choose the cheapest speedloader. I look for value instead. A slightly more expensive model can be worth it if it offers better durability, smoother operation, and more reliable fit. For me, spending a little more on a quality speedloader is often smarter than replacing a low-quality one later.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a .38 Special 5-shot speedloader today, I would focus on fit, reliability, ease of use, and carry comfort first. I would also practice with it before relying on it for defense or competition. In my experience, the right speedloader should make reloads faster, simpler, and more consistent without getting in my way.
Final Thoughts
I think the 38 Special speedloader 5 shot is a practical choice for anyone who wants faster, more reliable reloads with a compact revolver. My takeaway is that it offers a simple way to improve efficiency without adding much bulk or complexity. If you value convenience, consistency, and preparedness, this is definitely a useful accessory to consider.
Author Profile
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I’m Armando Lewellen, and I run Veldt Watch. I’ve always enjoyed taking the time to understand how watches fit into everyday life, not just how they look or what they promise. My background is in writing and explaining technical topics clearly, which naturally shaped how I approach watch information.
Over the years, I’ve learned through daily wear, basic maintenance, research, and quiet observation. In 2026, I created Veldt Watch to share clear, pressure free explanations and answer the kinds of watch questions people often struggle to find simple answers to.
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