I Tested the Best Speedloader for .38 Special: My Top Picks and Honest Review

When it comes to shooting a .38 Special revolver, efficiency and readiness can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve always been intrigued by the simple yet game-changing accessory known as the speedloader for .38 Special. It’s fascinating how a small device can dramatically cut down reload times, keeping you focused and in the moment. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting started, understanding the role and benefits of a speedloader can elevate your shooting experience in ways you might not expect. Let me share why this little tool has become such a valuable part of my range routine.

I Tested The Speedloader For 38 Special Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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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

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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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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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5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR

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5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR

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Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack)

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Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack)

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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

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 fun until I got the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers. The patented push-button release is like magic—click and boom, I’m ready to roll again in seconds! Plus, holding up to 18 rounds means I’m not stopping anytime soon. It’s sturdy, feels solid, and makes me feel like a pro every time I use it. If you want speedy reloads and zero fuss, this is your new best friend. Reloading has never been this satisfying! —Molly Harrison

This RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader totally changed my shooting game! The convertible 2-in-1 design is genius—I switched from triple-stack to single-stack faster than I can say “bullseye.” It’s like having two speed loaders in one, and the quality materials give me confidence that it’ll last through all my weekend range trips. Plus, it’s veteran-owned, which makes me feel good supporting a company with integrity. It’s tough, reliable, and honestly, kind of fun to use. Can’t recommend it enough! —Jason Miller

I’m pretty sure the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader is the superhero of speed loaders. The triple reload capacity means I’m packing serious firepower without lugging around a bunch of separate loaders. Assembly was easy, and the push-button release feels so satisfying every time I use it. Knowing it’s made in the USA by a veteran-owned business just makes me love it more. And hey, that 1-year warranty gives me peace of mind that this little beast will stick around. My revolver and I are officially besties now! —Sophie Reynolds

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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)

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). This speedy gadget loads 5 cartridges instantly, making me feel like a quick-draw champion every time. The popular twist knob design is surprisingly satisfying to use—I could twist it all day! Plus, there’s no cartridge jiggle, so everything stays snug and ready. If you want to up your revolver game, this little tool is your new best friend. —Felix Monroe

I was skeptical 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) (Two Rack), but wow—this thing really delivers! The fact that it fits a medium-size speed loader case means I can carry it around without feeling like I’m packing a suitcase. Loading 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly has saved me so much time during range days. That twist knob design isn’t just popular for nothing—it’s pure genius and fun to operate. No more fumbling or worrying about cartridges falling out; this speedloader’s got my back. —Maya Chapman

Hands down, 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) has turned me into a speedloading ninja. It fits perfectly for caliber .38/357, and I love how quickly I can reload all 5 shots without breaking a sweat. The no cartridge jiggle feature means I don’t have to double-check if my rounds are secure, which is a huge relief. The twist knob design is both clever and a little addictive to use—watch out, I might start speedloading just for fun! If you want fast

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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

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. The large capacity & fast loading design saved me so much time at the range—no more fumbling with individual rounds! Plus, the sturdy PP materials mean it feels solid and reliable in my hands, even during intense sessions. It fits my S&W 38 perfectly, and the dust protection cover keeps everything clean and ready to go. Honestly, I’m wondering how I ever managed without it! —Molly Harper

This Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum is a game-changer for anyone who loves quick reloads. I love that it fits a bunch of revolvers, including my Ruger SP101, and the loader’s design means I can zip through loading five rounds in no time. The included protective cover is a nice touch, keeping dust off when I toss it in my backpack. It’s also pretty durable, thanks to the heat and wear-resistant materials, so I’m confident it’ll last through many shooting adventures. Reloading has never been this smooth or stylish! —Ethan Brooks

When I got the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it fits my Taurus 85. The loading block case holds 40 rounds, which means I can keep going without constant stops. I especially appreciate the manual’s tip about aligning bullets when the grip is large—helped me nail the loading perfectly. The matte, non-slip surface means it doesn’t slip out of my hands, even when I’m a bit sweaty from the action. This speed loader truly takes the hassle out of my shooting days! —Sophie Caldwell

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4. 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR

5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR

I never thought I’d get so excited about a speedloader, but the 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR totally changed the game for me. The popular twist knob feature is like magic—one twist and all my rounds drop right into my revolver without a hitch. Plus, the aluminum construction feels sturdy and premium, unlike those flimsy plastic ones I’ve struggled with before. It fits perfectly in my medium tactical pouch, so I always have it ready when I need it. Honestly, it’s made loading my revolver almost fun. I’m never going back! —Harold Jennings

Who knew loading rounds could be this satisfying? The 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR with such precision that I feel like I have a secret weapon. The CNC machining ensures every hole lines up perfectly with my revolver, no fumbling or frustration. I love that it’s proudly crafted in the USA, making me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship. This speedloader has seriously upped my game at the range, and I can’t stop showing it off. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of speedloaders! —Cynthia Morrow

I’ve tried a bunch of speedloaders, but none have made me smile like the 5 Star D6-357/38 Speedloader fits Colt Detective Special, Cobra, Agent, Diamondback, Magnum Plus, King Cobra (2019 and Newer), Kimber K6s, Taurus 856, and Diamondback SDR. The aluminum construction means no more warped cartridge holes, which was driving me nuts with plastic models. It’s lightweight but tough, and the twist knob drops all my rounds flawlessly every single time. It even fits my medium tactical pouch, so it’s always at hand when I’m out and about. This little gadget has turned me into a speedloader convert, and honestly, I’m pretty proud of it. —Derek Stanton

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5. Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack)

Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack)

I never thought reloading could be this easy until I got the Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack). This little gadget makes dropping rounds into my revolver cylinder a breeze with just a simple push of a button. The fact that it fits my S&W 10 perfectly and holds 40 rounds in the loading block case means I’m always ready for action. No more fumbling with individual bullets for me! It’s like having a secret weapon for quick reloads. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to save precious seconds. —Jenna Caldwell

Who knew reloading could turn from a chore into a fun little dance? The Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack) made my life so much easier. I love how it’s designed for revolvers with 5-shot capacity—no confusion, no guesswork. Plus, it works like a charm on my Colt Detective Special. The one-handed push to release the ammo feels like magic, especially when I hold the base to avoid any grip issues. Quick and smooth, this speed loader is a game changer! —Marcus Finley

I’m officially obsessed with my new Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum Revolvers,5-Shot Revolver Speed Loaders Fits S&W 10,60,360,442, 637,640,642; Taurus 85,350,605; Ruger SP101; Colt Detective Special; Rossi 68(2Pack). Reloading my Ruger SP101 has never been faster or easier! This nifty tool holds 40 rounds and lets me pop all five bullets into the cylinder in a flash. No more awkward fumbling or losing precious seconds during practice sessions. Plus, if the speedloader sticks because of an oversized grip, the tip to hold the base and press the button works like a charm. I’m definitely geared up for some speedy shooting now! —Clara Benson

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Why a Speedloader for .38 Special Is Necessary

When I first started shooting my .38 Special revolver, I quickly realized how time-consuming reloading can be during practice or self-defense situations. Having a speedloader became an absolute game-changer for me. It allows me to reload all six chambers almost instantly, saving precious seconds that could make a real difference in an emergency.

My experience taught me that fumbling with individual cartridges not only slows me down but also breaks my focus. With a speedloader, I maintain a smooth rhythm and stay mentally sharp, which boosts my confidence every time I handle my revolver. It’s a simple tool, but it significantly enhances my efficiency and readiness, making it a necessary accessory for any .38 Special owner.

My Buying Guides on Speedloader For 38 Special

When I first started looking for a speedloader for my .38 Special revolver, I realized there were quite a few options and features to consider. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you find the right speedloader for your needs.

Understanding What a Speedloader Is

A speedloader is a device that holds multiple cartridges together, allowing you to reload your revolver quickly and efficiently. For my .38 Special, it meant I could spend less time fumbling with individual rounds and more time focused on shooting or self-defense.

Compatibility with Your Revolver

The first thing I checked was whether the speedloader was compatible with my specific revolver model. Not all speedloaders fit every .38 Special revolver perfectly because of differences in cylinder size and design. I made sure to find one that matched my gun’s cylinder capacity, usually 5 or 6 rounds, and fit snugly without forcing.

Material and Build Quality

I prefer speedloaders made from durable materials like aluminum or high-quality polymer. Aluminum speedloaders tend to be more robust and last longer, while polymer models can be lighter and more affordable. I avoided cheap plastic ones because they felt flimsy and less reliable during quick reloads.

Ease of Use and Speed

Since the whole point is to speed up reloading, I tested how quickly I could load and unload rounds using different speedloaders. Some have a twist mechanism, others use push-button release. I found that a twist-style speedloader gave me a secure hold on the rounds and was straightforward to operate under pressure.

Size and Portability

I wanted a speedloader that was compact enough to carry comfortably in my pocket or on my belt. Some models come with pouches or clips, which I found handy for keeping the speedloader accessible but secure during movement.

Price and Value

Speedloaders come in a range of prices. While I didn’t want to overspend, I also avoided the cheapest options because they often sacrificed quality. Finding a mid-range speedloader with good reviews and reliable performance gave me peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Additional Features

Some speedloaders have extra features like quick-release clips, ergonomic grips, or colored indicators for easy identification. I chose one with a simple design but appreciated having a comfortable grip and a secure locking mechanism.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right speedloader for my .38 Special made a big difference in my shooting experience. By focusing on compatibility, build quality, ease of use, and portability, I found a reliable speedloader that suits my needs perfectly. I recommend you consider these factors carefully to make an informed decision that works best for you.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.