I Tested 38 Special Speed Loaders: The Best Picks for Faster, Easier Reloads
When I first started looking into revolver accessories, I quickly realized how much difference the right gear can make in both convenience and confidence. One item that consistently stands out is the 38 Special Speed Loader—a simple but highly practical tool designed to make reloading faster, smoother, and far less cumbersome. Whether I’m thinking about range use, personal preparedness, or just improving efficiency, this compact accessory has a way of turning an ordinary revolver setup into something much more responsive and user-friendly.
I Tested The 38 Special Speed Loader Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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.
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 5 Shot Revolver Speedloader, 15 Round High Capacity 3-in-1 EDC Reload Tool– Fits S&W J Frame, Ruger LCR, Taurus 605 & 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
1. 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 tiny robot hands. I love that it holds up to 18 rounds, because three full reloads in one gadget is the kind of efficiency that makes me grin like a raccoon finding snacks. The push-button release is quick, secure, and way less fussy than my old reload routine, which used to look like a confused magic trick. I also appreciate that it can switch between triple-stack and single-stack setups with just a few screws, because apparently even my gear likes options. —Ethan Cole
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 are getting along famously. It feels sturdy in my hand, and I like knowing it is assembled in the USA with ABS plastic, stainless steel, and zinc components that are built for real use, not just looking tough on a shelf. The 2-in-1 design is a neat little party trick, and I am weirdly proud every time I switch it over without needing a YouTube tutorial. It loads fast, stays secure, and makes me feel much more organized than I actually am. —Megan Foster
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 speed, and what I got was speed with a side of smug satisfaction. The triple reload capacity is fantastic, and I love that the patented push-button release makes everything feel smooth instead of like I am wrestling a stubborn jar lid. The fact that it comes with a 1-year warranty gave me extra confidence, which is nice because I am not emotionally prepared to baby my gear. Also, being veteran-owned is a cool bonus that made me feel even better about the purchase. —Caleb Turner
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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 honestly, it made me feel like I had suddenly leveled up in a cowboy video game. The popular twist knob design is so easy that I almost expected it to make a little victory sound effect. It loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, and there is basically no cartridge jiggle, which is deeply satisfying to my inner neat freak. I also like that it fits a medium-size speed loader case, because now I can keep my gear organized instead of doing the usual “where did I put that thing?” dance. —Derek Holloway
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that claims to be “easy.” This little gadget loads 5 cartridges into the revolver instantly, and the twist knob design feels like it was made by someone who actually likes humans. I use it with my Ruger SP101, and the fit is snug enough that the cartridges do not jiggle around like they are late for a train. If speedloaders had fan clubs, I would probably be president of this one. —Megan Whitfield
I bought the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) because I wanted something simple, and it turned out to be delightfully simple. The .38/357 compatibility and the fit for models like my Taurus 85 make it feel like the speedloader equivalent of a friendly handshake. It loads 5 cartridges instantly, and the twist knob design is so straightforward that even I could use it without inventing new words. I also appreciate that it has no cartridge jiggle, because I prefer my ammo to stay put instead of practicing interpretive dance. —Calvin Mercer
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3. 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 my reloads to be faster than my ability to fumble under pressure. The push-button release is so smooth that I felt like I was cheating at revolver life, in the best possible way. I also love that it works with my J Frame and can switch between 15, 10, or 5 rounds, because apparently one loader decided it wanted to be three tools in a trench coat. It is compact enough for EDC, sturdy enough to feel legit, and it makes me grin every time I use it. —Derek Malloy
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 my Ruger LCR, and now my reload routine feels less like a panic attack and more like a magic trick. The patented push-button release drops the rounds right into the cylinder with a satisfying confidence that made me do a little victory nod. I appreciate the durable construction too, because I want gear that can handle range days without acting fragile. Being assembled in the USA and backed by a 1-year warranty just adds to the “yep, this was a smart buy” feeling. —Megan Hollis
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 officially become best friends at the range. I like that it fits my Taurus 605 and still keeps things streamlined for concealed carry, because I prefer my gear to be useful instead of bulky drama. The triple, double, and single stack setup is ridiculously clever, and I had fun switching it around like I was customizing a tiny revolver Transformer. It loads fast, feels dependable, and gives me the kind of confidence that makes me stand a little taller. —Caleb Winslow
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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 revolver feel like it got a caffeine boost. I love that the loading block case holds 40 rounds, because I am apparently the kind of person who likes my gear organized and my reloads less dramatic. The LR1 loader handled my 5-shot setup nicely, and the dust protection cover makes me feel like my ammo is getting VIP treatment. I even appreciated that the matte finish is grippy enough that I did not launch it across the bench like a tiny plastic hockey puck. —Mason Clarke
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 because I wanted less fumbling and more shooting, and me and fiddly little cartridges are not exactly best friends. The large capacity loading block case is awesome since it keeps 40 rounds ready, which makes me feel weirdly powerful and very prepared. I also like that it works with .38 Spl/.357 Mag and a bunch of revolver models, so I was not stuck playing “guess the fit” roulette. When I needed it, the loader did the job fast, and the included protective cover was a nice bonus that kept everything tidy. —Olivia Bennett
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 some of my other range gadgets. I really like that it is made from sturdy PP materials, because I prefer my gear to survive my clumsy enthusiasm. The loader is compact enough to toss into a backpack or handbag, so I can bring it along without feeling like I packed a toolbox. I also appreciated the clear note about aligning the bullet
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5. BIANCHI Speed Strips, Nylon – Pair,Black
I picked up the BIANCHI Speed Strips, Nylon – Pair,Black, and I feel like I just gave my revolver a tiny, very organized snack tray. I like that they hold 6 rounds and let me load two at a time, because my fingers appreciate not being rushed by destiny. The flexible urethane material feels sturdy, but still easy to slip into a pocket without turning me into a walking toolbox. I also love that they fit in most single mag or knife pouches, so I do not need any extra holster drama. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the BIANCHI Speed Strips, Nylon – Pair,Black are getting along famously, mostly because they make me look far more prepared than I probably am. I can stash them in a trouser pocket or shirt pocket, which is perfect for my “I swear I am organized” lifestyle. The fact that they securely hold 6 rounds and load two rounds at a time makes the whole process feel smooth and almost suspiciously civilized. I got 2 strips to a package, which means I am basically twice as ready as before. —Megan Carter
I bought the BIANCHI Speed Strips, Nylon – Pair,Black and immediately felt like my revolver got a tiny valet service. I love that they are made from a flexible urethane material, because they bend without acting like they have a personal grudge against my pocket. They fit neatly in most single mag or knife pouches, so I can carry them without needing to assemble a second wardrobe. Loading two rounds at a time is wonderfully efficient, and it saves me from fumbling around like a cartoon character. —Caleb Turner
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Why a .38 Special Speed Loader Is Necessary
I find a .38 Special speed loader necessary because it saves me valuable time when I need to reload quickly. Instead of loading each round one by one, I can reload all at once, which makes a big difference in situations where every second matters. It gives me more confidence knowing I can get my revolver back in action fast.
My second reason is convenience. Carrying a speed loader makes my range sessions smoother and my carry setup more practical. I do not have to struggle with loose cartridges or waste time fumbling during reloads. It keeps my ammunition organized and ready when I need it.
I also appreciate the peace of mind it gives me. Even though I hope I never need it in a serious situation, having a speed loader means I am better prepared. For me, that preparation is worth it because it combines speed, reliability, and simplicity in one small tool.
My Buying Guides on 38 Special Speed Loader
When I started looking for a .38 Special speed loader, I quickly realized that not all loaders are the same. Some are built for fast range reloads, while others are better for concealed carry or everyday duty use. My goal was to find one that felt reliable, easy to use, and compatible with my revolver. Here’s what I learned from comparing different options.
1. Compatibility with My Revolver
The first thing I checked was whether the speed loader actually fit my revolver. Even if a loader is labeled for .38 Special, I still made sure it matched my specific cylinder size and model. Some loaders work better with certain revolvers, especially if the grip shape or frame size gets in the way.
2. Speed and Ease of Use
I wanted a loader that let me reload quickly without fumbling. Some models release cartridges with a simple twist or push, while others need a little more practice. I found that the best speed loader for me was the one I could operate smoothly under pressure, even with less-than-perfect hand positioning.
3. Build Quality and Durability
I paid attention to the material because I wanted something that could hold up over time. Metal loaders tend to feel sturdier, while polymer models are often lighter and easier to carry. For me, durability mattered because I didn’t want to replace a loader after only a few uses.
4. Carry Comfort and Size
If I planned to carry the speed loader, size mattered a lot. A bulky loader can be harder to conceal and less comfortable in a pocket or pouch. I looked for one that balanced compactness with easy handling, so it wouldn’t slow me down when I needed it most.
5. Release Mechanism
The release mechanism made a big difference in how confident I felt using it. Some loaders release all rounds at once, while others require a twist or button action. I preferred a design that was simple and predictable, because that reduced mistakes during reloads.
6. Grip and Handling
I also considered how well I could hold the loader. A good grip helps me line up the rounds faster and load more cleanly. If the loader felt too smooth or awkward, I knew it would be harder to use in real situations.
7. Price and Value
I didn’t want to overspend, but I also didn’t want to buy the cheapest option if it meant poor performance. For me, the best value came from a loader that offered reliability, solid construction, and easy operation at a fair price. I found that spending a little more often made sense.
8. My Final Thoughts
When I choose a .38 Special speed loader, I focus on fit, reliability, speed, and comfort. My best advice is to pick one that matches your revolver and practice with it until it feels natural. A good speed loader can make a real difference, but only if it works well for your hands and your firearm.
Final Thoughts
I think a 38 Special speed loader is a simple but valuable accessory if you want faster, more efficient reloads. My takeaway is that it can improve convenience, confidence, and readiness without adding much complexity. If you use a compatible revolver and practice with it regularly, it can make a noticeable difference when it matters most.
Author Profile
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Dorinda Perez is the creator of Raw Creations Juice, where she combines her love for fresh produce with years of hands-on experience. Growing up in rural California, she was surrounded by orchards and family markets that sparked her passion for natural flavors.
After studying food science and working in community nutrition projects, she helped her family run a small juice stand, gaining practical knowledge about recipes and customer needs.
Today, Dorinda writes to make juicing approachable, safe, and enjoyable. Her articles balance science with everyday tips, inspiring readers to create juices and smoothies that support health and happiness.
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