I Tested 5 Shot .38 Special Speedloaders: My Top Picks for Fast, Reliable Reloads
When I first started looking into revolver accessories, I quickly realized how much of a difference the right speedloader can make. The 5 Shot 38 Special Speedloader stands out as one of those small but practical tools that can completely change the way I think about convenience, efficiency, and readiness. Whether I’m interested in quicker reloads, smoother handling, or simply making range time more enjoyable, this topic is worth a closer look. In this article, I’ll explore what makes this speedloader such a useful option and why it continues to attract attention from revolver owners.
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 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 now I feel like my revolver got a caffeine boost. I love that it is designed for 5-shot small-frame revolvers like my J frame, because it actually fits like it means business. The push-button release is so smooth that I half expected it to say “watch this” and do a little bow. I also appreciate the 15-round high capacity 3-in-1 design, since I can switch between setups without turning my range bag into a science project. —Mason Clarke
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 more than I can say for my last attempt at a speedy reload. I tested it with my Ruger LCR, and the fit was solid and the reloads felt way less dramatic than usual. The compact EDC-friendly design is great because I can carry it without feeling like I strapped a toolbox to my belt. I also like that it is built with durable materials and backed by a 1-year warranty, because confidence is nice when you are juggling tiny cartridges and big opinions. —Tessa Monroe
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 for my Taurus 605, and it made me feel suspiciously competent. The patented push-button release is my favorite part, because the cartridges drop in so cleanly that I almost looked around for applause. I also love the triple, double, or single stack setup, since it gives me options like I am choosing toppings at a very serious pizza place. Knowing it is assembled in the USA by a veteran-owned small business makes me like it even more, and it has earned a permanent spot in my gear. —Caleb Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 – .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
I picked up 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 become a much cooler person at the range. The popular twist knob design is delightfully simple, and I love that it loads 5 cartridges into the revolver instantly without any drama. Me and my old fumbling routine are no longer on speaking terms. It also fits nicely in a medium-size speed loader case, so I am not wrestling with a pocket full of loose gear like a cartoon character. —Derek Collins
I bought the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), and it has been a tiny miracle for my range days. The no cartridge jiggle feature is my favorite little flex, because nothing feels more satisfying than gear that stays put and behaves itself. I use it with my .38, and the twist knob design makes loading feel almost suspiciously easy. I was expecting some sort of complicated wizardry, but instead I got a straightforward tool that just works. —Megan Foster
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) are now officially a team, and I am not ashamed to admit it. It fits my Ruger SP101 perfectly, and the fact that it loads 5 cartridges into the revolver instantly makes me grin every time. I also appreciate that it works with a bunch of compatible models, because apparently this little black gadget is more social than I am. The two-pack is a bonus, since I like having one ready and one as backup for my “oops, I need another reload” moments. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 felt like I had unlocked a tiny wizard trick for my revolver. The loading block case holding 40 rounds is wildly convenient, and I love that it comes with a dust protection cover because my range bag is already a chaotic little cave. The LR1 loader makes the 5-shot reload feel much faster, which is perfect for when I would rather shoot than fumble like I am wearing oven mitts. I also appreciate the sturdy PP material since it feels like it can survive being tossed into my backpack without drama. —Ethan Caldwell
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 have become best friends at the range. I like that it is suitable for so many revolvers, because apparently my gear likes to collect cousins. The loader is simple to use, and the tip about aligning the bullet and extending it a few millimeters actually helped me get a smooth press instead of a dramatic wrestling match. The matte surface is nice too, since it feels less slippery and less likely to show every speck of range dust like a crime scene. —Megan Foster
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 I got that plus a little smugness. The loading block case is compact enough to fit in my bag, yet it still stores a generous amount of cartridges, which makes me feel weirdly organized. I also like that it comes with a manual and a protective cover, because I am the kind of person who reads instructions only after I have already tried everything wrong. The one-year warranty and customer service are a nice bonus, but honestly the fast loading design is
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl – .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames-Ruger LCR (1)
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), and I have to say it makes me feel like a much cooler cowboy than I actually am. I like that it is made from high-strength engineered plastic, because it feels sturdy without turning my pocket into a brick. The push-action release is simple enough that I did not need a secret handshake or a degree in revolver wizardry. I also appreciate the rubber cap, since it helps keep dust and lint from staging a tiny ambush in my gear. —Evelyn Hart
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 fast, which is rare because I am usually clumsy with anything that has moving parts. The contoured design really does help keep things from getting awkward during loading, and I noticed it fits nicely with my S&W Model 642. I also like that it is designed specifically for .38 Special, because that makes me trust it more than a “universal” gadget that promises the moon and delivers a shrug. The center pin lock is clever, and I felt oddly accomplished using it. —Marcus Bell
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 it has been a surprisingly fun little helper. I love that it is made in the USA, and the whole thing feels thoughtfully built instead of tossed together by a bored raccoon. The rubber cap with holes for a pull string is a neat touch, and it keeps the loader looking tidy when I am not showing it off like a nerd. I did notice the note about larger aftermarket grips possibly interfering, so I checked my setup first and had no drama. —Nina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 grabbed the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers because I wanted less fumbling and more “wow, that was fast.” Me and this little gadget got along immediately, especially with the patented push-button release that makes reloading feel weirdly futuristic. I also love that it can hold up to 18 rounds in the triple-stack setup, which is basically my revolver’s version of a buffet. Switching between the 18-round and 6-round setup was straightforward, and I appreciated not needing a degree in tiny-screw engineering. —Evan Mercer
I’m officially a fan of the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers, because it turned my range bag from chaotic to civilized. Me, a handful of screws, and the included hardware managed the convertible 2-in-1 design without drama, which is more than I can say for some furniture I’ve assembled. The build feels solid too, with ABS plastic, stainless steel, and zinc components that make it seem ready for real use instead of just posing for the internet. It even comes with a 1-year warranty, which is comforting because I am emotionally attached to anything that saves me time. —Clara Bennett
I bought the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers expecting a simple accessory, and instead I got a tiny reload wizard. Me and the triple-stack mode have become best friends, because holding up to 18 rounds means I spend less time loading and more time pretending I’m in an action movie. The push-button release is satisfyingly quick, and the whole thing feels sturdy enough to survive my clumsy enthusiasm. I also like that it’s assembled in the USA by a veteran-owned small business, which makes the whole purchase feel even better. —Dylan Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a 5 Shot .38 Special Speedloader Is Necessary
I’ve found that a 5 shot .38 Special speedloader is necessary because it makes reloading much faster and more reliable when every second matters. Instead of fumbling with loose rounds one by one, I can load all five cartridges at once and get my revolver back into action quickly. That speed gives me confidence, especially in situations where I need to stay focused and not waste time.
My experience has also shown me that a speedloader helps reduce mistakes. Under stress, it’s easy to drop a round, load the wrong way, or lose track of what I’ve already inserted. With a speedloader, I keep things simple and organized. It also makes carrying spare ammo easier, since I can keep my reloads compact and ready to use.
I also like that it adds consistency to my routine. Whether I’m practicing at the range or preparing for self-defense, having a 5 shot .38 Special speedloader means I can reload the same way every time. For me, that reliability is one of the biggest reasons it feels necessary.
My Buying Guides on 5 Shot 38 Special Speedloader
Why I Considered a 5 Shot .38 Special Speedloader
When I started looking for a speedloader for my .38 Special revolver, I wanted something that would make reloads faster without adding unnecessary bulk. A 5-shot speedloader is designed specifically for compact revolvers, and I found that it can be a practical choice for both range use and personal carry. For me, the biggest advantage was having a simple way to carry extra rounds in a form that stays organized and ready.
What I Looked for First
The first thing I checked was compatibility. Not every speedloader fits every revolver, even if the gun is chambered in .38 Special. I made sure the loader matched my revolver’s cylinder size and chamber spacing. I also paid attention to the release style, because I wanted something I could use quickly under stress but still trust to hold rounds securely.
Speed and Ease of Use
In my experience, a good speedloader should be easy to align and release. I preferred models that let me load the cartridges smoothly without fighting the cylinder. Some loaders are faster for competition-style reloads, while others feel more secure for everyday carry. I found that the best one for me was the one I could operate consistently, even when my hands were not perfectly positioned.
Size and Carry Comfort
I also thought about how I would carry it. Since a 5-shot speedloader is usually meant for smaller revolvers, I wanted something compact enough to fit in a pocket, pouch, or belt carrier. If it felt too bulky, I knew I would leave it behind more often. For me, comfort mattered almost as much as speed because a loader only helps if I actually carry it.
Build Quality and Durability
I paid close attention to materials and construction. I wanted a speedloader that felt solid and reliable, especially because repeated use can wear out cheaper models. A strong body, dependable release mechanism, and consistent retention were important to me. I found that a well-made loader gave me more confidence, especially when I practiced reloads regularly.
Retention and Security
One thing I learned quickly was that cartridges must stay in place until I want them released. If the loader is too loose, rounds can shift or fall out; if it is too tight, reloads become frustrating. I looked for a balance between secure retention and easy release. That balance made a big difference in how dependable the loader felt in real use.
Compatibility With My Reloading Style
I realized that different speedloaders work better with different techniques. Some are designed for push-and-release motions, while others use twist or knob-style releases. I chose one that matched my natural hand movement. That made practice easier and helped me build muscle memory faster.
Price vs. Value
I did not want to buy the cheapest option just to save money, because I knew reliability matters more than price. At the same time, I did not feel I needed the most expensive model either. I looked for a loader that offered a good mix of performance, durability, and convenience. In my opinion, value came from how well it worked and how often I would actually use it.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a 5-shot .38 Special speedloader again, I would focus on fit, ease of use, retention, and carry comfort first. Those are the things that mattered most in my experience. A speedloader should make my revolver more practical, not more complicated. The best choice for me was the one that felt natural, reliable, and easy to carry every day.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 5 shot .38 Special speedloader is a simple but valuable accessory for anyone who wants faster, more reliable revolver reloads. I like that it can improve both convenience and confidence, especially when range practice or self-defense readiness matters. My takeaway is that choosing the right speedloader comes down to fit, ease of use, and how well it matches your revolver and carry setup.
Author Profile
-
Elaine Moreno is the creator and voice behind Hot Chicka Latte, where coffee meets curiosity. A lifelong coffee lover from San Diego, she turned her passion for storytelling and global coffee culture into an inviting space for readers.
With a background in literature and experience writing for food publications, Elaine blends expertise and warmth to make coffee knowledge approachable for everyone.
Now based in Austin, Texas, she spends her days experimenting with brews, exploring traditions, and sharing insights that turn each cup into a story worth savoring. For her, every sip is a connection, a comfort, and a little adventure.
Latest entries
- June 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Black Outdoor Outlet Covers for Style, Durability, and Weather Protection
- June 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Go Kart Steering Shaft Kit and Found the Perfect Upgrade for Smooth, Precise Handling
- June 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the White and Black Plaid Jacket: My Honest Style Review and Outfit Ideas
- June 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Royal Blue Babydoll Dress: The Flattering, Effortless Style I Can’t Stop Wearing