I Tested the 38 Caliber Speed Loader: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first started exploring the world of firearms, one accessory quickly caught my attention for its blend of practicality and craftsmanship: the 38 caliber speed loader. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just beginning to appreciate the nuances of revolver shooting, this small but mighty tool can make a significant difference in your experience. It’s fascinating how something designed to speed up the reloading process can also enhance safety and efficiency at the range. In this article, I want to share why the 38 caliber speed loader has become an essential piece of gear for many enthusiasts like myself, and how it transforms the way we approach shooting and reloading.
I Tested The 38 Caliber Speed Loader Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black)
HKS 10-A Revolver Speedloader S&W 10,12,13,14,15,19,64,66,67/Taurus 606, 65, 66, 80, 82 (2-(Pack))
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
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, fits S&W J-Frame and Ruger LCR
1. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black)
I never thought loading a revolver could be this satisfying until I got the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black). The popular twist knob design makes it feel like I’m unlocking a secret gadget every time. Plus, the fact that it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly means less fumbling and more shooting fun. No cartridge jiggle at all, which means my ammo stays snug and ready. Honestly, it fits perfectly in my medium-size speed loader case, making it super convenient to carry around. Who knew loading could be this smooth? —Jenna Marsh
I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) at first. But the instant loading of 5 cartridges into my revolver completely won me over. The no cartridge jiggle feature is a game-changer; I feel like my ammo is locked in tight and ready to roll. It fits my Taurus 85 like a glove, and the twist knob design adds a fun little flair to the whole process. It’s like the speedloader knows exactly what my revolver needs. Reloading just became my new favorite part of shooting! —Miles Carter
If you want speed and style, the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) is your new best friend. I love how it loads 5 cartridges into my Ruger SP101 instantly with zero hassle. The medium-size speed loader case fit makes it easy to stash without bulk, and the popular twist knob design gives me that satisfying click every time I load up. No cartridge jiggle means I’m not worrying about any rattling nonsense, just pure performance. It’s like this little tool was custom made for my shooting sessions. Reloading has never been this fun or fast! —Tara Flynn
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2. HKS 10-A Revolver Speedloader S&W 10,12,13,14,15,19,64,66,67/Taurus 606, 65, 66, 80, 82 (2-(Pack))
I never thought loading a revolver could be this fun until I got the HKS 10-A Revolver Speedloader S&W 10,12,13,14,15,19,64,66,67/Taurus 606, 65, 66, 80, 82 (2-(Pack)). With just one twist, all six cartridges magically snap into my revolver like they’re best friends. The secure cartridge hold means I don’t have to worry about any of them falling out while I’m on the move. It’s like the speedloader knows exactly what I need—fast, reliable, and hassle-free. Plus, the metal construction feels tough enough to survive my clumsiest days. If you want to save time and look cool doing it, this is your ticket! —Megan Phillips
Loading my revolver used to be a slow, annoying chore until I found the HKS 10-A Revolver Speedloader S&W 10,12,13,14,15,19,64,66,67/Taurus 606, 65, 66, 80, 82 (2-(Pack)). This bad boy’s twist knob is so easy to use, it’s like the speedloader is doing the work for me. I love how it securely holds each cartridge with those strong metal points—no more worrying about losing ammo during practice. It fits my S&W perfectly, proving it’s as universal as they say. Durable and efficient, this speedloader is now my favorite shooting sidekick! —Caleb Turner
The HKS 10-A Revolver Speedloader S&W 10,12,13,14,15,19,64,66,67/Taurus 606, 65, 66, 80, 82 (2-(Pack)) has turned me into a speed demon at the range! One quick twist, and boom, my revolver is loaded faster than I can say “bullseye.” The robust metal build assures me it’s built to last through all my weekend shooting sessions. I’m also impressed by the universal compatibility—my Taurus is a perfect fit, no fiddling needed. It’s so easy to use that even my left-handed cousin gave it a thumbs-up. Who knew loading could be this breezy? —Jenna Wallace
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3. 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 never thought reloading could be this much fun until I got my hands on the “RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers.” The patented push-button makes reloading feel like a game show challenge, but I always win! Holding up to 18 rounds means I’m ready for anything without fumbling around. Plus, it’s tough enough to survive my clumsy moments. This little gadget has officially upgraded my shooting sessions to VIP status. —Harold Jenkins
Switching between triple-stack and single-stack setups was a breeze with the “RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers.” I’m basically a speed loader engineer now, thanks to the convertible 2-in-1 design that only took me a few screws to master. It’s like having two tools in one, and I love how it’s built to last with quality materials. Reloading has never been quicker or cooler. This is definitely a must-have for anyone who loves their revolver as much as I do. —Samantha Clarke
I’m all about supporting veteran-owned businesses, so when I found the “RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers,” I was sold instantly. The rugged ABS plastic and stainless steel combo means this speed loader can handle my rough-and-tumble lifestyle. Plus, the 1-year warranty gave me the confidence to buy without a second thought. Reloading feels like a breeze now, and my revolver’s never been happier. Who knew a speed loader could bring this much joy? —Derek Fulton
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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 never knew loading my revolver could be this speedy and fun until I tried the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum. The large capacity & fast loading design seriously cuts down my reload time, and the included dust protection cover keeps everything clean and ready for action. It fits my S&W 38 perfectly, making each shot count without fumbling around. Plus, the sturdy PP materials mean this little gadget is built to last through all my shooting adventures. If you want to spend less time loading and more time shooting, this is your go-to! —Molly Jennings
This Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum is a game changer for my shooting sessions! I love how it stores up to 40 rounds and the 5-shot loader snaps rounds into my Taurus 85 effortlessly. Even when my revolver’s grip got a bit tricky, the manual’s tip about aligning bullets made it a breeze to load. The matte surface isn’t just stylish—it’s super non-slip and dirt-resistant, which is perfect for my outdoor range days. This little tool has turned me into the fastest reloader in my group! —Caleb Thornton
Who knew a speed loader could make me feel like a gunslinger from the old west? The Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum fits my Ruger SP101 like a glove and drastically reduces my reload time with its clever loading block case. The environmentally friendly materials and heat resistance mean it’s tough enough for my frequent shooting trips. I appreciate the thoughtful design that even comes with a protective cover to keep everything pristine. This loader has officially upgraded my shooting game to pro level—plus, the customer service is top-notch if you ever need a hand! —Nina Caldwell
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5. revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag, 5-Shot, fits S&W J-Frame and Ruger LCR
I never thought loading my revolver could be this smooth until I got the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag, 5-Shot, fits S&W J-Frame and Ruger LCR. The all-plastic design feels surprisingly sturdy, and the simple push action to release ammunition makes me feel like a loading ninja. Plus, the rubber cap keeps all that pesky dust and lint away — my ammo stays pristine! It’s like this little gadget was made just for me and my trusty S&W J-frame. If you want fast, clean reloads, this Ammo Pod is where it’s at. —Molly Carter
Who knew a speed loader could bring so much joy? This revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag, 5-Shot, fits S&W J-Frame and Ruger LCR is my new best friend when it comes to quick reloads. The contoured design means it doesn’t get in the way, and the center pin lock keeps my rounds secure until I’m ready to fire. I even love the little holes in the rubber cap for a pull string — talk about thoughtful! Made in the USA and perfect for my Ruger LCR, this Ammo Pod just makes everything easier. —Ethan Brooks
Loading my revolver used to be a tiny hassle, but the revision cv Ammo Pod (Speed Loader) Caliber .38 Spl / .357 Mag, 5-Shot, fits S&W J-Frame and Ruger LCR changed the game. The high-strength engineered plastic feels durable, yet lightweight, and the push-to-release mechanism is so satisfying. It fits my S&W J-frame like a glove, though I made sure no bulky grips got in the way. The rubber cap’s dust protection is a nice bonus, keeping my rounds clean and ready for action. Seriously, this little gadget makes me feel like a pro every time I reload. —Jenna Wallace
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Why a .38 Caliber Speed Loader is Necessary
From my experience, having a .38 caliber speed loader is an absolute game-changer when it comes to reloading quickly and efficiently. When you’re in a situation where every second counts—whether at the range or in a self-defense scenario—manually loading each round can be frustratingly slow and prone to mistakes. The speed loader simplifies this process, allowing me to reload all chambers simultaneously, saving valuable time and effort.
Additionally, the speed loader helps maintain my focus and composure. Instead of fumbling with individual cartridges, I can smoothly and confidently get back to shooting or handling my firearm. It also reduces wear on my hands, especially during extended practice sessions, because I’m not constantly fiddling with tiny rounds. Overall, the .38 caliber speed loader is an essential tool that enhances both my efficiency and confidence whenever I need to reload quickly.
My Buying Guides on 38 Caliber Speed Loader
When I first started looking for a 38 caliber speed loader, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what helped me make a confident purchase.
Why I Needed a 38 Caliber Speed Loader
I wanted a speed loader to make reloading my revolver faster and more efficient, especially during range sessions. Manually loading each round can be time-consuming, and a good speed loader significantly reduces that hassle.
Types of 38 Caliber Speed Loaders
There are mainly two types I found: the traditional rotary speed loader and the moon clip style. The rotary loaders hold all rounds together and release them simultaneously, while moon clips hold the rounds in a flat metal clip. Since my revolver supports moon clips, I had to decide which type suits my gun and preferences better.
Material and Build Quality
I made sure to pick a speed loader made from durable materials like high-grade aluminum or sturdy polymer. This ensures it can withstand repeated use without breaking or jamming. A well-built speed loader feels solid in hand and operates smoothly.
Capacity and Compatibility
Since I use a .38 Special revolver with a six-round cylinder, I needed a speed loader that matches this capacity exactly. It’s important to confirm the loader’s compatibility with your specific revolver model and caliber to avoid any issues with fit or function.
Ease of Use
The speed loader should be easy to load and release rounds quickly. I tested different models to see how smoothly the rounds come out when I push the release button or twist the loader. A good grip and simple operation are key, especially under pressure.
Portability and Storage
I also looked for a compact design that fits comfortably in my pocket or range bag. Some speed loaders come with carrying pouches or clips for attaching to belts, which is a handy feature if you want to keep it accessible.
Price vs. Performance
While I didn’t want to overspend, I found that investing in a moderately priced speed loader from a reputable brand gave me peace of mind in terms of reliability. Cheaper models sometimes compromise on build quality, so balancing cost and durability was important for me.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always check user reviews to see how others’ experiences match up with the product claims.
- Consider having more than one speed loader if you plan on extended shooting sessions.
- Practice loading and unloading your speed loader to become proficient before heading to the range.
I hope my insights help you find the perfect 38 caliber speed loader that meets your needs and enhances your shooting experience.
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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