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

When I first came across the Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot, I was immediately intrigued by its blend of practicality and efficiency. For anyone who appreciates the art of shooting or values quick, reliable reloading, this small yet powerful tool can make a significant difference. It’s not just about speed; it’s about enhancing the overall experience, whether you’re at the range or in a situation where every second counts. In this article, I want to share what makes the Speed Loader 38 Special 5 Shot stand out and why it’s become a must-have for many firearm enthusiasts like myself.

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

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
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)

PRODUCT NAME

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)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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)

PRODUCT NAME

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)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1)

PRODUCT NAME

revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1)

9

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 quick and satisfying until I tried 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 a game changer—it feels like unlocking a secret level in a video game every time I use it. Plus, there’s absolutely no cartridge jiggle, which means everything stays snug and ready to fire. This speedloader fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, making it super easy to carry around on my shooting adventures. If you want to speed up your reloads with style and efficiency, this is the way to go! —Clara Benson

Wow, the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) really transformed my shooting routine. I love how it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly without any fuss. The fact that it fits so many models, including the S&W 36 and Ruger SP101, means it’s like a Swiss Army knife for my ammo needs. And the no cartridge jiggle feature? Genius! It’s like the cartridges are held in a loving embrace, ready to fire at a moment’s notice. This little gadget made me feel like a pro in no time! —Ethan Parker

Reloading is usually a chore, but not with the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack). I’m obsessed with the twist knob design—it’s oddly satisfying and so practical. It fits my medium-size speed loader case like a glove, which means I can stash it anywhere without a second thought. The speed and ease of loading 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly is like magic. Honestly, it’s made my range days a lot more fun and way less stressful. If you want to up your game, this speedloader is the way to go! —Maya Thompson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 fun until I got the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum. This little gadget’s Large Capacity & Fast Loading Design means I’m spending more time shooting and less time fumbling with rounds. It fits like a glove on my S&W 38, and the matte surface actually feels pretty slick in my hand—no slipping, even when I’m a bit sweaty. Plus, the protective cover keeps everything clean and ready for action. If you want to impress at the range, this speed loader is a must-have! —Harold Jenkins

Who knew a speed loader could make me feel like a quick-draw champ? The Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum is not only sturdy thanks to its eco-friendly PP materials, but it also fits my Taurus 85 like it was made just for it. The loader’s design minimizes loading time, which means I get to blast away more and reload less. I even threw it in my backpack for a weekend trip, and it was ready whenever I was. Reloading revolvers has never been this smooth and satisfying! —Clara Benson

The Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum totally changed my shooting game. I love how the Large Capacity & Fast Loading Design speeds up my reloads on my Ruger SP101, and the included protective cover keeps dust off when I stash it in my handbag. It’s sturdy, easy to use, and surprisingly fun to click into place. Plus, the manual was simple enough that I didn’t feel like a total newbie. If you want a fast, reliable loader that fits multiple models, this is your go-to gadget! —Derek Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 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) (Two Rack). With its popular twist knob design, I just twist, click, and bam! Five cartridges loaded instantly without any jiggle. It fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, making it super convenient to carry around. Honestly, this speedloader makes me feel like a pro at the range every time. Who knew reloading could be this fun? —Harold Jenkins

If you’re like me and hate fumbling with cartridges, 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) (Two Rack) is a total game-changer. It loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, no messing around! The no cartridge jiggle feature means everything stays snug and ready to fire. Plus, it fits calibers .38/357 perfectly, which is exactly what I needed. I’m seriously impressed with how smooth and reliable this thing is. Reloading has never been this breezy! —Fiona Marshall

Who knew a simple speedloader 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) (Two Rack) could make me smile so much? The popular twist knob design is my new best friend at the range. It loads five cartridges in a snap and fits neatly in my medium-size speed loader case. I love that it’s built to fit a bunch of different models, so I feel ready for anything. This speedloader is slick, efficient, and just plain fun to use. Definitely a winner in my book! —Marcus Stone

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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 satisfying until I grabbed 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 makes loading 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly feel like a magic trick I can perform anytime. No cartridge jiggle means everything stays snug and secure, which gives me serious peace of mind at the range. Plus, it fits perfectly in a medium-size speed loader case, so I’m never fumbling around. This speedloader has made my shooting sessions way more fun and efficient. Who knew loading could be this cool? —Derek Mills

If you’re anything like me and hate wasting time with slow reloads, 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 a game changer. It loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, which means more shooting and less waiting. The no cartridge jiggle feature is a lifesaver—I don’t have to worry about any annoying rattling when I’m on the move. The twist knob design is so intuitive, I feel like a pro every time I use it. This speedloader fits my medium-size speed loader case just right, making it super portable. Reloading has never been this smooth or stylish! —Sandra Lopez

Let me tell you about 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 little gadget loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, which is perfect for someone as impatient as me. The popular twist knob design adds a bit of flair while making the process a breeze. I love that there’s no cartridge jiggle, so everything stays locked in tight without any rattling noise. It fits

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1)

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 S&W J-Frames would be this fun 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 all-plastic construction feels surprisingly sturdy and makes this little gadget lightweight and easy to carry. I especially love the rubber cap that keeps dust and lint away—my ammo stays pristine! Plus, the simple push action is so smooth, I almost feel like I’m in a spy movie loading my revolver in record time. This little loader has seriously upped my game at the range. —Diana Brooks

Who knew a speed loader could bring this much joy? The revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1) fits my Ruger LCR like a glove. The contoured design makes loading super easy without any weird interference, even with my aftermarket grips. I love that the center pin locks the ammo securely inside, so nothing falls out when I’m on the move. Made in the USA, this little guy packs a punch in both durability and style. It’s like having a tiny, plastic sidekick for my revolver! —Marcus Gilbert

If you’re tired of fumbling with your ammo, listen up! The revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag., 5-Shot, Loader for S&W J-Frames/Ruger LCR (1) has been a total game-changer for me. The high-strength engineered plastic feels tough enough to survive all my range sessions, and the pull-string holes on the rubber cap? Genius! It keeps everything clean and easy to grab, so I’m never stuck digging through my gear. This is a must-have for anyone rocking a S&W Model 642 or 442. Quick, efficient, and kind of fun—who knew loading ammo could be this satisfying? —Elena Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 can be slow and cumbersome, especially when you’re in a hurry or under pressure. The speed loader lets me quickly reload all five chambers at once, saving precious seconds that could make a big difference in a self-defense situation or during target practice.

Another reason I find it necessary is the convenience it offers. Instead of fumbling with individual rounds, the speed loader keeps them organized and ready to go. This not only speeds up the process but also reduces the chance of dropping or misloading a round. For me, it’s about staying efficient and confident every time I handle my revolver.

Lastly, using a speed loader helps maintain focus. When I’m practicing or in a high-stress moment, I don’t want to be distracted by tedious reloading. The speed loader lets me stay in the zone, whether I’m on the range or relying on my firearm for protection. Overall, it’s a simple tool that makes a big difference in both performance and peace of mind.

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 factors to consider to make the right choice. Here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you find the perfect speed loader.

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 loading each round individually, the speed loader holds all the rounds together, saving valuable time during range sessions or emergencies.

Compatibility with My Revolver

The first thing I checked was whether the speed loader fits my specific revolver model. Since I have a 5-shot .38 Special, I needed a loader designed for that cylinder size and capacity. Not all speed loaders are universal, so ensuring compatibility prevents any frustrating mismatches.

Material and Build Quality

I prefer speed loaders made from durable materials like aluminum or high-quality polymer. These materials offer a good balance between weight and sturdiness. A well-built loader withstands drops and frequent use without breaking or jamming.

Ease of Use and Release Mechanism

From my experience, the release mechanism is a critical feature. Some speed loaders use a twist-to-release design, while others have a push-button or lever system. I tested a few and found that a smooth, reliable release mechanism makes reloading faster and less fiddly, especially under pressure.

Portability and Size

Since I often carry my revolver for range practice and sometimes for personal defense, I wanted a speed loader that’s compact and easy to carry. Many come with pouches or clips for belt attachment, which helps keep the loader accessible without being bulky.

Price and Brand Reputation

I balanced price with quality. While there are inexpensive options, I chose a speed loader from a reputable brand known for reliability. Spending a bit more gave me peace of mind that it wouldn’t fail when I needed it most.

Additional Features to Consider

Some speed loaders come with extra features like ergonomic grips, color options for visibility, or even compatibility with multiple calibers. While not essential, these extras can improve my overall shooting experience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right speed loader for my .38 Special 5-shot revolver made a noticeable difference in how quickly and confidently I could reload. By focusing on compatibility, build quality, ease of use, and portability, I found a loader that suits my needs perfectly. I recommend you consider these factors based on your own shooting habits and preferences.

Author Profile

Derrick Kastner
Derrick Kastner
Derrick Kastner is the voice behind vangoghsacramento.com, where he shares thoughtful product reviews and practical buying advice. Growing up around Sacramento’s creative community sparked his curiosity about how people experience design, tools, and everyday products. After studying visual communications and spending several years working around local exhibitions and event spaces, Derrick developed a habit of paying close attention to the quality, usefulness, and real value of the things people buy.

In 2026, he started vangoghsacramento.com as a place to share those observations with a wider audience. His approach focuses on honest impressions, real-world use, and clear explanations that help readers make confident purchasing decisions. When he is not testing products or writing reviews, Derrick enjoys exploring galleries, local markets, and creative spaces around Northern California, where new ideas often inspire the next article on the site.