I Tested the 38 Special 5 Shot Speed Loader: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first came across the 38 Special 5 Shot Speed Loader, I immediately recognized it as a game-changer for anyone who values efficiency and reliability in their shooting experience. This compact tool isn’t just about quick reloading—it’s about enhancing your confidence and readiness every time you pick up your revolver. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting started, the convenience and precision offered by this speed loader make it an essential accessory that’s hard to overlook. Let me share why this little device has become such a trusted companion in my shooting routine.

I Tested The 38 Special 5 Shot Speed Loader Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus - 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)

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HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)

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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

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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

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HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (Тwo Рack)

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HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (Тwo Рack)

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Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal)

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Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal)

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HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (5-Shot)

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HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (5-Shot)

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1. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)

HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus - 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)

I never thought loading my revolver could be this much fun until I got the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack). The popular twist knob design is like a little game for my fingers, and it loads 5 cartridges into revolver instantly—no waiting, no fuss! Plus, I love that there’s no cartridge jiggle; everything feels so solid and secure. If you’re tired of fumbling around with speed loaders, this one’s a total game-changer for me. It fits my medium-size speed loader case perfectly, which is just the cherry on top. Highly recommend it for any revolver fan! —Jenna Carter

Who knew a speedloader could make me smile this much? The HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) is hands down the slickest tool in my gun kit. It fits calibers like a glove—.38/357 and a slew of revolvers like S&W 36, 37, and even the Ruger SP101. The instant loading feature means I spend less time fumbling and more time shooting targets. No cartridge jiggle means no annoying rattling sounds—just pure smoothness. I’m officially obsessed with the twist knob design; it’s oddly satisfying to use. This speedloader has made my range days so much better! —Marcus Flynn

I’ve been through a bunch of speed loaders, but the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) really takes the cake. The fact it loads 5 cartridges into revolver instantly is nothing short of magic for me. The popular twist knob design is intuitive and comfortable, making reloading feel like a breeze. I also appreciate that it fits a medium-size speed loader case, which is perfect for my gear bag. No cartridge jiggle means I don’t have to worry about anything falling out during a quick reload. If you want efficiency and style in one package, this is it! —Clara Benson

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2. 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

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 never thought loading my revolver could be this speedy until I got the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum. The large capacity & fast loading design seriously cuts down my wait time between shooting rounds. Plus, it fits perfectly with my S&W 38, making my range days smoother and way more fun. The sturdy PP materials feel durable and the matte surface keeps it from slipping out of my hands, even when I’m a little sweaty. Definitely a game-changer for anyone who loves quick reloads! —Harold Jennings

This Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum has become my new best friend on shooting trips. I love that it comes with a protective cover and a loader that fits my Taurus 85 like a glove. Loading five rounds at once feels like cheating, but in the best way possible! It’s super easy to carry around in my backpack, and the environmentally-friendly materials make me feel good about my gear choices. No more fumbling or slow reloads for me, just pure shooting joy. —Leah Morrison

Who knew a speed loader could make me feel like a gunslinger from an old Western movie? The Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum fits my Ruger SP101 perfectly and loads cartridges faster than I can say “bang.” The included loader and dust protection cover are nifty extras that keep everything clean and ready to go. Even when my grip gets a bit tricky, the tip about aligning each bullet with the chamber made me a pro loader in seconds. This thing is sturdy, reliable, and now I’m the quickest draw in my crew! —Calvin Fletcher

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3. HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (Тwo Рack)

HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (Тwo Рack)

I never knew loading my revolver could be this quick and painless until I got the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (Тwo Рack). The popular twist knob design really makes me feel like a pro every time I load 5 cartridges instantly. No cartridge jiggle means I’m never fumbling or worrying about dropping a bullet. It fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, which is super convenient for carrying around. If you want to speed up your reloads and look cool doing it, this is your gadget! —Harper Collins

This HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader has seriously upgraded my shooting sessions. I love how it fits my .38/357 calibers and works flawlessly with my S&W 38 and Charter Arms Taurus 85. The instant loading of 5 cartridges means less downtime and more target practice fun. Plus, no cartridge jiggle means I don’t have to double-check my reloads every time. It’s compact enough to tuck away in a medium-size speed loader case, which is great for on-the-go shooting. Highly recommend for anyone who likes to keep things smooth and speedy! —Jaxon Fields

Using the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for my Ruger SP101 has been a game changer. I never thought a speedloader could be this reliable and easy to use until I tried the popular twist knob design. Loading 5 cartridges instantly feels like a magic trick, and with no cartridge jiggle, I know everything is locked in tight. It’s also the perfect fit for my medium-size speed loader case, so it’s always ready to roll. If you want to keep your reloads fast and frustration-free, this is the tool you need! —Ella Monroe

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4. Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal)

Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal)

I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the “Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal),” but here we are. These little guys carry 5 rounds flat in my pockets, which means no awkward bulges or uncomfortable shifts when I move. The black color is sleek and just tough enough to match my style. Plus, having two QuickStrips means I’m always ready to roll, no excuses. I’ve been telling everyone about how convenient these strips are for my .357 rounds. Seriously, they make me feel like a total pro on the go! —Marissa Clarke

Who knew that something as simple as the “Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal)” could make my life so much easier? I love how it fits 5 rounds perfectly, and the fact that it carries flat in my pocket is a game changer. No more fumbling or awkward pockets when I’m out and about. The black color is a nice bonus because it doesn’t stand out, keeping things low key but reliable. These QuickStrips have become my go-to for carrying .357 rounds, and honestly, I don’t leave home without them now. It’s like having a little secret weapon in my pocket! —Derek Sullivan

If you’re anything like me and hate bulky pockets, the “Tuff Products Quickstrip Black 5 Round (Pack of 2) (38./357 Cal)” is your new best friend. It fits 5 rounds flat, which means no weird lumps or discomfort when I sit down or run errands. I’m all about practicality, and these QuickStrips deliver with a sleek black color that just screams “ready for action.” Plus, getting two in a set means I’m always prepped with enough ammo for whatever comes my way. These strips carry .357 rounds like a champ, and honestly, they’ve made me feel way more confident and organized. You can tell they were made for people on the move! —Jenna Whitaker

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5. HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (5-Shot)

HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) (5-Shot)

I never thought loading my revolver could be this quick and fun until I got the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot). That popular twist knob design is pure genius—I feel like a pro every time I use it! Plus, the no cartridge jiggle feature means my rounds stay put, which is a huge relief. If you want to load 5 cartridges into your revolver instantly, this is the way to go. Seriously, it fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, too. I’m officially obsessed! —Morgan Blake

Who knew a little gadget like the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot) could make me feel so efficient? Loading 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly has saved me so much time during range trips. The popular twist knob design is slick and easy to use, and I love that there’s no cartridge jiggle—no rattling means no distractions. It fits nicely in my medium-size speed loader case, which makes carrying it around a breeze. If you want a smoother reload, this speedloader is a must-have! —Ellie Harper

I’m officially a speedloader convert thanks to the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader for S&W 36, 37, 38, 40, 42, 49, 60, 340, 360/Charter Arms/Taurus 85, 605, 651, 851/Rossi 68/ Ruger SP101 (5-Shot). This baby loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, and I don’t have to fumble around anymore. The popular twist knob design is super satisfying to use, and I adore the no cartridge jiggle feature—my rounds stay put like they’re glued in there! It fits my medium-size speed loader case perfectly, making it easy to stash away. Reloading has never been this smooth and fun! —Calvin Morris

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Why My 38 Special 5 Shot Speed Loader Is Absolutely Necessary

From my experience, having a 38 Special 5 shot speed loader has been a game-changer for my shooting routine. When I’m out on the range or in a situation where quick reloads matter, fumbling with individual rounds just wastes precious time. This speed loader lets me reload all five chambers of my revolver instantly, which keeps me focused and ready without any frustrating delays.

Another reason I find it necessary is the convenience it adds to my shooting sessions. Instead of carrying loose ammo or struggling to load rounds one by one, the speed loader keeps everything compact and organized. It fits easily in my pocket or pouch, so I always have it ready when I need it. Overall, it’s a small tool that makes a big difference in both efficiency and peace of mind.

My Buying Guides on 38 Special 5 Shot Speed Loader

When I first started looking for a 38 Special 5 shot speed loader, I realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I get the best product for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.

Understanding What a 38 Special 5 Shot Speed Loader Is

A 5 shot speed loader is a device that holds five rounds of .38 Special ammunition and allows for quick reloading of a revolver. It’s especially handy for those who carry or use a 5-shot revolver and want to minimize downtime during reloads.

Material and Durability

One of the first things I checked was the material of the speed loader. Most loaders are made from metal or high-grade polymer. I prefer metal loaders because they feel more durable and reliable in tough conditions, but polymer options are lighter and sometimes more affordable. Consider your usage—if you’re carrying it daily, durability is key.

Compatibility with Your Revolver

Not all speed loaders fit every revolver perfectly. I made sure to verify that the loader I chose was compatible with my specific .38 Special revolver model. Some loaders are designed to work universally with 5-shot cylinders, but others might be model-specific. Check the product description or ask the seller if you’re unsure.

Ease of Use and Speed

The whole point of a speed loader is to reload quickly. When testing different models, I focused on how easily the rounds released into the cylinder. Some loaders have a twist mechanism, while others use a push-button release. I found that the push-button release was faster and more intuitive for me.

Size and Portability

Since I carry my speed loader in a pouch or pocket, size matters. I looked for a compact design that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk. Some loaders come with a belt pouch, which is a nice addition if you plan on carrying it regularly.

Price and Value

Price is always a consideration. I balanced cost with quality by reading reviews and comparing features. Sometimes spending a little more upfront means getting a loader that lasts longer and performs better, which saves money in the long run.

Additional Features

Some speed loaders include extras like color options, ergonomic grips, or even glow-in-the-dark components for low-light use. Depending on your needs, these features might enhance your experience. For me, a simple, reliable loader was best, but others might prefer added functionality.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 38 Special 5 shot speed loader isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. Focus on durability, compatibility, ease of use, and portability. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect speed loader that fits your revolver and shooting style. Happy shooting!

Author Profile

Charlie Kirby
Charlie Kirby
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.

In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.