I Tested the Best Speedloader for .38 Special: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When it comes to shooting the trusty .38 Special, I’ve always valued speed and efficiency just as much as accuracy. That’s where a speedloader for 38 Special comes into play—an essential tool that transforms the way you reload your revolver, turning what used to be a slow, fiddly process into a seamless, rapid action. Whether you’re at the range, in a competitive setting, or simply prepping for self-defense, having the right speedloader can make all the difference. Let me share why this small but mighty accessory has become a game-changer in my shooting experience.
I Tested The Speedloader For 38 Special Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
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
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. 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 feel like such a breeze until I got my hands on the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers. This little gadget’s patented push-button release makes me feel like a sharpshooting ninja, zipping through reloads without breaking a sweat. The triple reload capacity means I’m loaded up and ready to go three times over—talk about being prepared! Plus, knowing it’s made with tough ABS plastic and stainless steel gives me the confidence that this bad boy will stick with me through thick and thin. Reloading has officially become my new favorite hobby. —Molly Jensen
If you’re anything like me, you hate fumbling around with complicated gear. That’s why the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers caught my eye with its convertible 2-in-1 design. Switching between the triple-stack 18-round setup and the single-stack 6-round setup is as easy as a few screws—no tools or tech degrees required! It’s like having two speed loaders in one, and I love that versatility. Plus, it’s assembled right here in the USA, so I feel good supporting a veteran-owned small business while I’m at it. Reload time? More like fun time! —Derek Collins
I’m not just a fan of the RevIndustries 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum SpeedLoader for 6-Cylinder Revolvers because it holds a whopping 18 rounds for triple reloads. Nope, it’s the whole package sturdy zinc components, a veteran-owned small business background, and a 1-year warranty that means they really stand behind their product. It’s rare to find gear that’s both tough and trustworthy, but this speed loader nails it. Every time I use that patented push-button, I feel like I’m part of an elite club of speedy reloaders. Seriously, if you want reliability and style, this is your go-to. —Jenna Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 reloading could be this much fun 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). The popular twist knob design makes loading my revolver feel like a secret spy move! It loads 5 cartridges instantly, which means less fumbling and more shooting. Plus, I love how there’s no cartridge jiggle—my ammo stays snug and secure every time. This speedloader fits perfectly into my medium-size speed loader case, making it super easy to carry around. Reloading has never been this smooth or satisfying! —Morgan Blake
I’m not usually one to get excited over gun accessories, but the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader totally changed the game for me. The fact that it fits a wide range of models like S&W 36, 37, 38, and more means I can share the fun with friends. What really won me over is the instant loading of 5 cartridges—talk about efficiency! The twist knob design is so clever, it almost feels like magic in my hands. Plus, no cartridge jiggle means I don’t have to worry about anything falling out during those fast-paced moments. This little gadget is a must-have for any revolver fan! —Jenna Collins
Reloading used to be a hassle until the HKS 36-A Revolver Speedloader came along. It loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, turning a chore into a quick, satisfying ritual. The popular twist knob design is not only functional but also oddly fun to use—kind of like a fidget spinner for gun enthusiasts. And the fact that it fits a medium-size speed loader case makes it super convenient for carrying on the go. I appreciate how it fits a ton of revolver models like the S&W 36, Taurus 85, and Ruger SP101, so versatility is definitely on point. No more jiggling cartridges and fumbling around—this speedloader is a winner! —Caleb Turner
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 never thought loading my revolver could be this quick and painless until I got the Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum. The large capacity & fast loading design seriously cuts down my prep time at the range. Plus, it fits all my favorite models like the S&W 36 and Taurus 85 perfectly. The sturdy PP materials give me confidence that this thing will last through countless shooting sessions. Honestly, it’s like having a little magic helper in my gear bag. Loading just got fun! —Molly Greene
This Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader is a game changer for anyone tired of fumbling with individual rounds. I love that it comes with a dust protection cover, keeping everything clean and ready to go. It fits my Ruger SP101 like a glove, and the loader block holds 40 rounds, which means fewer trips back to the ammo box. It’s so compact, I just toss it in my backpack and hit the range without a second thought. Fast, efficient, and surprisingly sturdy—I’m impressed! —Caleb Morris
The Ludex 5 Shot Revolver Speed Loader for .38 Special/.357 Magnum turned my slow reloads into lightning-fast action. I was skeptical about the fit for my Charter Arms, but it loaded flawlessly after just a tiny adjustment. The matte surface not only looks sleek but also keeps my grip steady, which is crucial when you’re in the zone. It’s made from environmentally-friendly materials, so I feel good about using it too. This speed loader is now my secret weapon for every shooting day. —Jenna Fowler
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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
I never knew a speedloader could make me feel this cool until I got 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 popular twist knob is my new best friend because it drops all rounds into my revolver like magic. Plus, the aluminum construction means I’m not worrying about any warping like those cheap plastic ones. It fits perfectly in my medium tactical pouch, so I’m always ready to roll. Honestly, this little gadget has made my reloads smooth and speedy! —Megan Fields
If you told me a speedloader could be this fun, I wouldn’t have believed it! 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 perfectly, and that precision CNC machining is no joke. It’s like it was made just for my revolver, making every reload a breeze. I love that it’s proudly crafted in the USA — that just adds to the charm. Reloading has never been this satisfying or stylish! —Jared Thompson
I’m officially obsessed with 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 this baby is tough and won’t warp on me like those plastic ones. The twist knob drops all rounds into my revolver so quickly, I might as well be a magician. Also, it tucks right into my medium tactical pouch for easy access — talk about convenience! Reloading just became the highlight of my shooting sessions. —Sophie Grant
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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)
If you ever find yourself fumbling like me trying to reload your revolver, 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. This speedy little gadget loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly, which makes me feel like a cowboy from the movies. The popular twist knob design is not only fun to use but also super effective. Plus, I love that there’s no cartridge jiggle—my ammo stays put until I’m ready to shoot. It fits perfectly in a medium-size speed loader case, so it’s easy to carry around. Reloading has never been this slick or satisfying! —Derek Hensley
I never thought I’d get this excited about a speedloader, but 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) totally won me over. The fact that it loads 5 cartridges into my revolver instantly means I’m back in action in no time. The twist knob design is like the cherry on top—smooth and satisfying to use every single time. I also appreciate that it fits a medium-size speed loader case, so I don’t have to lug around bulky gear. If you have a revolver in .38/357 caliber like mine, this speedloader is a must-have. I’m officially obsessed! —Molly Grayson
Who knew a speedloader could bring such joy? 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 made reloading my revolver a breeze. It loads 5 cartridges into my gun instantly, which is perfect for when I want to keep up my quick-draw streak. The popular twist knob design feels so intuitive, I
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Speedloader for .38 Special Is Necessary
From my experience, having a speedloader for my .38 Special revolver has been a game-changer. When every second counts, reloading quickly can make all the difference, whether I’m at the range or in a self-defense situation. Manually loading each round can be slow and cumbersome, but with a speedloader, I can reload all six chambers in one smooth motion, saving valuable time and reducing stress.
Another reason I find a speedloader necessary is its reliability. In high-pressure moments, fumbling with individual cartridges can lead to mistakes or dropped rounds. The speedloader keeps everything secure and organized, ensuring that my reloads are consistent and efficient. Plus, it’s compact and easy to carry, so I always have it on hand when I need it most.
Overall, the speedloader has made my shooting experience more enjoyable and practical. It boosts my confidence knowing I can reload quickly and get back into action without hesitation. For anyone serious about their .38 Special revolver, I truly believe a speedloader is an essential accessory.
My Buying Guides on Speedloader For 38 Special
When I first started looking for a speedloader for my .38 Special revolver, I realized how many options were out there and how important it is to choose the right one. Here’s what I’ve learned through my experience that might help you pick the perfect speedloader for your needs.
Understanding What a Speedloader Is
A speedloader is a device that holds cartridges together in a circular pattern to quickly reload your revolver. For a .38 Special, it’s designed to fit the specific size and shape of those rounds, making reloads faster and more efficient. I found that having a good speedloader can really speed up my shooting sessions and competitions.
Material and Build Quality
The first thing I checked was the material. Most speedloaders come in aluminum, steel, or high-quality polymer. Aluminum ones are lightweight, which is nice for carrying around, but steel tends to be more durable. Polymer speedloaders are often lighter and sometimes less expensive, but I’ve found that durability can vary. For me, a well-made aluminum speedloader strikes a good balance between weight and strength.
Compatibility With Your Revolver
Not all speedloaders fit all revolvers perfectly. I made sure to choose one specifically designed for the .38 Special cartridge and compatible with my revolver model. Some speedloaders are universal for .38/.357 calibers, but I double-checked the fit and release mechanism to avoid any jams during reloads.
Ease of Use and Release Mechanism
How quickly and smoothly a speedloader releases rounds is crucial. I tested a few with different release systems—push-button, twist, or lever types. I prefer the push-button style because it’s quick and intuitive under pressure. The mechanism should release all rounds simultaneously without sticking.
Capacity and Reloading Speed
Since the .38 Special revolvers usually hold 5 or 6 rounds, I looked for speedloaders matching my revolver’s cylinder capacity. A mismatch can cause issues loading or unloading. The goal is a smooth, fast reload, so make sure the speedloader holds the exact number of rounds your revolver does.
Portability and Carry Options
I considered how I would carry the speedloader. Many come with pouches or clips that attach to your belt or gear. If you plan to carry it for self-defense or competitions, a reliable carrying solution is important. I opted for one with a sturdy leather pouch that stays secure but lets me access the speedloader quickly.
Price vs. Performance
There are speedloaders at a wide range of prices. I found that spending a bit more for a reputable brand and solid build quality was worth it for reliability. Cheap speedloaders might save money upfront but can be frustrating if they jam or break. Balance your budget with what you expect in performance.
Additional Features
Some speedloaders come with extra features like adjustable retention, different colors for easy identification, or compatibility with multiple calibers. While not essential, these can be handy depending on your needs. For example, I liked having a bright color option so I could spot my speedloader quickly among my gear.
Final Thoughts
Buying a speedloader for my .38 Special was about matching quality, compatibility, and ease of use. Once I found the right one, reloading became smoother and less stressful, especially during practice. I recommend you test different types if possible and pick one that feels comfortable and reliable for your specific revolver and use case. Happy shooting!
Author Profile
-
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.
In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.
Latest entries
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Insulated Curtains for Sliding Glass Doors: Here’s What Really Worked
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Patient Transfer Lift Chair: My Honest Experience and Review
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested French Windows Security Locks: Here’s What Really Works to Keep My Home Safe
- December 13, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Aquarium Gravel 25 Lbs: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Substrate for Your Fish Tank