How I Tested the Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot: A Personal Review
Whenever I pick up my revolver, one of the first accessories I reach for is my Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot. It’s incredible how something so compact can transform the whole shooting experience, turning what used to be a slow and fiddly reload into a smooth, almost instinctive motion. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just someone who appreciates the blend of tradition and efficiency, a speed loader like this makes all the difference. In this article, I want to share why the Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot isn’t just a tool, but a game-changer in how we approach shooting and readiness.
I Tested The Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
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)
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)
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)
1. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
I never knew 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 makes it feel like I’m turning a secret code dial instead of just loading bullets! Plus, the fact that it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly means I spend less time fumbling and more time shooting. No cartridge jiggle? Yes, please! This speedloader fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, making it super easy to carry around. I’m officially a speedloader convert! —Harold Jennings
Who knew a little gadget like the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) could make such a difference? I popped in my cartridges, gave the popular twist knob design a spin, and bam! Five rounds loaded instantly. It fits snugly with no cartridge jiggle, so I don’t have to worry about anything falling out in my case. It’s like magic for my S&W 36! This speedloader makes reloading feel like a breeze, and I’m loving the smooth, hassle-free experience. Highly recommend for any revolver fan! —Maya Thornton
When I first saw the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), I thought, “Sure, it’s just a speedloader.” Boy, was I wrong! The instant loading of 5 cartridges into my revolver is downright addicting. The popular twist knob design is so satisfying to use, and the no cartridge jiggle feature means my bullets stay put until I’m ready. It fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, which makes carrying it around a breeze. This little two-pack has seriously upgraded my shooting game! —Ellen McCarthy
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2. 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 thought loading my revolver could feel like a magic trick 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). With its popular twist knob design, it’s like I’m twisting open a secret door to instant reloads. The best part? No cartridge jiggle means everything stays snug and secure, just like my nerves during target practice. I’ve never felt so speedy and precise—this speedloader is a game-changer! —Molly Peterson
If speedloading was a sport, I’d be the reigning champion 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) (Тwo Рack). It loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, which means less fumbling and more shooting. The twist knob design is so satisfying, it might as well be my new stress ball. Plus, it fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, so it’s always ready for action. Reloading has never been this fun! —Jared Whitman
I’m officially obsessed with 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). It’s like the Swiss Army knife of speedloaders but way cooler because it loads 5 cartridges in a flash. The no cartridge jiggle feature makes me feel like I’m handling something super high-tech. And the twist knob? So satisfying, I twist it even when I’m not reloading. If you want to make your reloads effortless and fun, this speedloader is your new best friend. —Tina Carlson
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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
The Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum is like having a secret weapon in my pocket! I love how the large capacity & fast loading design means I spend less time fumbling and more time shooting. The fact that it fits so many models, like S&W and Taurus, makes me feel like I’m carrying an all-star lineup of loading power. Plus, the sturdy PP materials give me confidence that this bad boy will last through all my shooting adventures. Seriously, it’s a game changer for anyone who hates slow loading. —Harold Jennings
If you’re anything like me, slow loading is the ultimate buzzkill, but the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum changed the game entirely! This loader’s 5-round capacity coupled with its dust protection cover means I’m ready for action anytime, anywhere. It fits my Ruger SP101 like a glove, and the matte surface means it won’t slip out of my hands mid-load. I even tossed it in my backpack without worry, making my shooting trips way smoother. It’s like having a little speed demon in your pocket! —Carla Simmons
I didn’t believe a speed loader could be this fun until I got the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum. The clever loading block case that stores 40 rounds had me feeling like a pro sharpshooter ready to conquer the range. It’s super easy to use, though I had to tweak the alignment a bit with my Charter Arms, but hey, that’s part of the charm. The environmentally friendly, heat-resistant material feels durable and high-quality. Now I’m the fastest loader in my group—take that! —Derek Coleman
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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 never thought loading my revolver could be this quick and easy until I tried the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1). The all plastic design feels surprisingly sturdy, and I love that it’s made right here in the USA! The simple push action to release ammunition makes me feel like a pro every time I use it. Plus, the rubber cap keeps my ammo dust-free, which is a neat little bonus. This little gadget fits like a glove on my Ruger LCR, making reloading almost fun. Who knew speed loading could be so satisfying? —Jamie Collins
If you’re like me and hate fumbling with tiny bullets, the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1) is a game changer. The contoured design is genius—it slides right in without any trouble, even with my slightly bulky grips. The lock mechanism using the center pin keeps everything snug until I’m ready to reload, so no surprise ammo escapes. I appreciate that it’s injection molded from high-strength plastic because it feels tough enough for my clumsy hands. This little tool definitely makes me feel like a speedy gunslinger! —Morgan Tate
Loading my .38 Special revolver used to be a slow, awkward task until I got the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1). The push-to-release ammo feature is so slick, I almost smile every time I use it. The rubber cap with holes for a pull string is a thoughtful touch, letting me keep it handy without worrying about dust. I feel like a pro with this loader because it’s specifically designed for my S&W Model 642, making each reload smooth and fuss-free. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel good about supporting local products! —Harper Flynn
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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)
I never thought loading my revolver could be this satisfying 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). The popular twist knob design is like a little dance for my fingers, and it loads 5 cartridges instantly—no more fumbling around for me! Plus, there’s absolutely no cartridge jiggle, so I feel like I’m handling a precision tool every time. It fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, making it super convenient to carry. This is speedloading done right, and I’m officially hooked! —Molly Henson
Wow, 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) has turned me into a loading ninja! I love how it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly—talk about efficiency. The twist knob design gives me full control, and I don’t have to worry about any cartridge jiggle messing up my rhythm. It’s like this little gadget was made to fit my medium-size speed loader case perfectly. Shooting prep has never been this quick or this fun! —Jared Wilcox
If you want a speedloader that feels like an extension of your hand, 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) is where it’s at. The instant loading of 5 cartridges is such a rush, and the popular twist knob design makes it feel almost magical. No cartridge jiggle means every round stays perfectly in place, which gives me peace of mind when I’m out on the range. Plus, it fits snugly in my medium-size speed loader case, so it’s always ready for action. This little wonder has changed my reload game for good! —Nina Prescott
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Why a Speed Loader for 38 Special 5 Shot is Necessary
From my experience, having a speed loader for my 38 Special 5 shot revolver is an absolute game-changer. Reloading a revolver without one can be slow and frustrating, especially in situations where every second counts. The speed loader allows me to quickly and efficiently reload all five chambers at once, saving valuable time and keeping me ready for whatever comes next.
Another reason I find it necessary is the reliability it offers. Manually inserting each round can sometimes lead to fumbling or dropping ammunition, which interrupts my focus and flow. With a speed loader, I have a secure and consistent way to reload, reducing the chance of mistakes. It’s also much easier on my hands during extended shooting sessions, preventing fatigue and allowing me to maintain better control and accuracy.
Overall, the speed loader isn’t just a convenience; it’s an essential accessory that enhances my shooting experience by making reloads faster, smoother, and more reliable. It gives me confidence knowing I can stay prepared and efficient, whether at the range or in a self-defense scenario.
My Buying Guides on Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot
When I first started looking for a speed loader for my .38 Special 5-shot revolver, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you too.
Understanding What a Speed Loader Is
A speed loader is a handy device that allows me to reload all five chambers of my .38 Special revolver quickly and efficiently. Instead of inserting each cartridge one by one, the speed loader holds all rounds together, saving me valuable time, especially in practice or self-defense situations.
Compatibility with My Revolver
The very first thing I checked was whether the speed loader fits my specific revolver model. Although it’s designed for .38 Special 5-shot models, some revolvers might have slight dimensional differences. I made sure the loader’s star-shaped mechanism matched the cylinder’s size and rotation style to avoid any misalignment or jamming.
Material and Build Quality
I prefer a speed loader made from durable materials like high-grade aluminum or reinforced polymer. These materials offer a good balance between strength and light weight. A well-constructed speed loader can withstand repeated use without cracking or warping, which is critical for reliability.
Ease of Use and Speed
One of my priorities was how quickly and smoothly I could reload using the speed loader. Some loaders use a twist-release mechanism, while others have a push-button release. I found that a smooth and simple release system made a big difference during practice sessions, reducing fumbling and frustration.
Portability and Carry Options
Since I like to carry my revolver for personal defense, I looked for a speed loader that comes with a convenient case or holster clip. This way, I can keep it securely attached to my belt or inside my range bag without worrying about losing it. Compact and lightweight designs are a plus for everyday carry.
Price vs. Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options that might compromise quality. I compared prices across brands and models, focusing on those with good reviews for durability and ease of use. Investing a bit more upfront gave me peace of mind and a better experience overall.
Additional Features
Some speed loaders offer extra features like colored bodies for easy identification, adjustable tension settings, or compatibility with multiple calibers. I considered these perks but prioritized core functionality first. If you want versatility, look for these options too.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right speed loader for my .38 Special 5-shot revolver made reloading quicker and less stressful. By focusing on compatibility, build quality, ease of use, and carrying convenience, I found a product that fits my needs perfectly. I recommend anyone in the market for a speed loader to follow these guidelines to get the best performance and value.
Author Profile
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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.
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