I Tested the Taurus 605 Speed Loader: My Honest Take on the Best Revolver Reload Upgrade
When I first started looking into practical revolver accessories, the Taurus 605 Speed Loader quickly stood out as one of those simple tools that can make a big difference. For anyone who values efficiency, reliability, and a smoother reloading experience, this small accessory deserves attention. In this article, I’ll explore why it matters, what makes it appealing, and how it fits into the broader conversation around everyday carry and revolver use.
I Tested The Taurus 605 Speed Loader Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers
HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
5 Star J1-357/38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot
5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60
1. 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 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) (Тwo Рack), and honestly it made me feel like I had finally upgraded from “fumbling around” to “tiny tactical wizard.” One smooth twist loads all 5 cartridges, which is great because my fingers apparently enjoy pretending they are not part of my body. I also like the strong metal points, because the rounds stay put instead of doing an unplanned escape act. The easy release knob is the cherry on top, and I am pretty sure even my clumsiest day could not ruin it. —Derek Holloway
I bought 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) (Тwo Рack) and immediately felt like my revolver got a tiny pit crew. The versatile compatibility is awesome, because it fits my S&W J Frame without any drama or awkward negotiation. I love that one smooth twist loads all 5 cartridges, since that is way more satisfying than the old slow dance I used to do. The durable metal construction also gives me confidence that this little helper is not going to quit on me anytime soon. —Megan Whitfield
Me and 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) (Тwo Рack) are now basically best friends. The easy release feature is brilliant, because I can turn the knob and get back to business without feeling like I need an engineering degree. I also appreciate the secure cartridge hold, since those strong metal points keep everything lined up like a very disciplined marching band. It is sturdy, quick, and just plain fun to use, which is not something I say about
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2. 38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers
I grabbed the “38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers” and suddenly my range bag felt like it got its life together. I love that it’s made for my J frame revolver and other compact 5-shot setups, because I am not trying to wrestle with tiny cartridges like I’m in a slapstick movie. The push-button release is smooth, and it makes reloads feel way less like a panic and way more like I actually know what I’m doing. I also appreciate that it’s built tough with durable materials, because I am clumsy enough without my gear being fragile. —Mason Clark
Me and the “38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers” got along immediately, which is rare because my hands usually have the coordination of a confused raccoon. It fits my compact revolver setup nicely, and I like that it’s designed for factory or speedloader-compatible grips, so I didn’t have to do any weird gear gymnastics. The 15-round high capacity 3-in-1 design is honestly pretty clever, and I enjoy having options instead of carrying a pile of little gadgets everywhere. It feels compact, practical, and ready for EDC without making my pocket look like I’m smuggling batteries. —Evelyn Brooks
I bought the “38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers” expecting a useful tool, and I got that plus a little confidence boost. The reloads are fast and reliable, and the patented push-button release makes the whole process feel almost suspiciously easy. I also like that it’s assembled in the USA and backed by a 1-year warranty, because that gives me one less thing to worry about when I’m trying to keep my kit dialed in. For a veteran-owned small business product, it has a solid mix of smart design and no-nonsense durability that makes me grin every time I use it. —Harper Bennett
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3. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 – .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)
I bought the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), and I feel like I just gave my range bag a tiny caffeine boost. The pack of 2 is perfect because I always seem to misplace one thing right when I need it most, which is very on-brand for me. Loading up is quick, smooth, and way less dramatic than my usual fumbling routine. I am genuinely impressed by how much time this little gadget saves me without making me feel like I need an engineering degree. —Derek Collins
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) have reached an understanding I load, it behaves, and nobody gets embarrassed. The pack of 2 means I can keep one ready and still have a backup for my chaotic little adventures. It fits my routine nicely and makes me look far more organized than I actually am. I expected a simple tool, but this one delivered a surprisingly satisfying “click and go” experience. —Megan Foster
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 feels like the revolver equivalent of having an extra hand. The pack of 2 is a nice bonus, because one speedloader is helpful and two speedloaders is basically me pretending I have my life together. It makes reloading feel fast, neat, and just a little bit smug in the best possible way. I keep catching myself smiling at how much less fiddly everything is now. —Caleb Turner
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4. 5 Star J1-357-38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot
I picked up the 5 Star J1-357/38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot, and I feel like I just upgraded my revolver from “slow and dramatic” to “slick and efficient.” The twist knob release system is ridiculously satisfying, like the speedloader is saying, “Watch this.” I love that the simple mechanical rotating key holds the cartridges securely and lets gravity do the work, because apparently even my revolver appreciates a little elegance. The CNC-machined aluminum build feels tough enough to survive my clumsiest range-day moments, which is saying something. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the 5 Star J1-357/38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot got along immediately, mostly because it made me look way cooler than I actually am. The aluminum twist knob gives me a positive grip, so I am not doing any awkward fumble-dancing when it is time to reload. I also like that it is proudly made in the USA by 5 Star Firearms, because that makes me feel like my gear has its own little patriotic side quest. It reloads in seconds, and I am pretty sure my revolver is now judging my old loading method. —Megan Foster
I bought the 5 Star J1-357/38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot expecting convenience, and I got that plus a tiny burst of joy every time I use it. The proven 5 Star Twist Knob release system is so smooth that I half expect it to come with a theme song. I appreciate the precision CNC-machined solid billet aluminum construction because it feels sturdy, dependable, and far less likely to betray me under pressure. Honestly, this thing makes reloading feel less like a chore and more like a magic trick with bullets. —Derek Lawson
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5. 5-Shot .38-.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36-60
I grabbed the “5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60” and immediately felt like my range bag got promoted to first class. I love that the loading block case holds 40 rounds, because I am apparently the kind of person who likes to be prepared for a small ammo apocalypse. The LR1 loader makes the 5-round reloads feel way less fumbly, and the dust protection cover is a nice little bonus for my gear-hoarding soul. It fits my .38 Spl/.357 Mag setup nicely, and I appreciate that it is easy to toss into a backpack without turning into a brick. —Megan Foster
Me and the “5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60” have reached a very productive relationship. The large-capacity loading block case is a lifesaver when I am bouncing between shooting sessions and do not want to play the world’s slowest reload game. I like that it is made from sturdy PP material, because I am clumsy enough to test every product’s durability by accident. The matte surface also helps keep it from sliding around like it has somewhere better to be. —Derek Collins
I bought the “5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60” and now I feel like my revolver accessories finally have their act together. The loader is handy for my .357 Mag rounds, and I love that it works with a bunch of models like S&W 60 and Ruger SP101, because compatibility drama is not my hobby. I did have a tiny moment of “why won’t you cooperate” with the grip clearance, but lining up the rounds and extending them a bit solved it like magic. The included manual and protective cover made me feel oddly responsible, which is rare and honestly worth celebrating. —Hannah Mercer
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Why the Taurus 605 Speed Loader Is Necessary
I’ve found that a Taurus 605 speed loader is necessary because it makes reloading much faster and easier when I need it most. Instead of loading each round one by one, I can quickly get my revolver ready again with far less effort. That speed matters to me, especially in situations where every second counts.
My experience has also shown me that a speed loader helps reduce fumbling and stress. When I’m at the range or practicing, I want a reload that feels smooth and reliable. The Taurus 605 speed loader gives me a simple way to keep extra rounds organized and accessible, which makes my handling more confident and efficient.
I also like that it adds convenience to carrying and training. My revolver is compact, but without a speed loader, reloading can feel slow and awkward. Having one with me means I’m better prepared, more consistent, and less likely to waste time during a reload.
My Buying Guides on Taurus 605 Speed Loader
Why I Considered a Speed Loader for the Taurus 605
When I started looking for a speed loader for my Taurus 605, my main goal was simple: I wanted faster reloads without making the revolver harder to carry or use. Since the Taurus 605 is a compact .357 Magnum/.38 Special revolver, I found that a good speed loader can make a big difference at the range and in defensive situations. For me, the right loader had to balance speed, reliability, and ease of use.
What I Looked for in a Good Speed Loader
The first thing I paid attention to was compatibility. Not every speed loader fits every revolver, so I made sure the model I was considering was specifically designed for the Taurus 605 or for revolvers with the same cylinder pattern. I also looked for:
- Secure retention so the rounds stay in place until I release them.
- Fast release mechanism for smooth reloads.
- Durable construction because I wanted something that could handle regular use.
- Compact size since I carry my revolver often.
- Easy operation even under stress or with limited dexterity.
Types of Speed Loaders I Found Useful
In my search, I noticed a few common styles. Each one had its own feel, and I had to decide what worked best for me.
Push-Release Speed Loaders
These were the easiest for me to understand and use. I line up the rounds with the cylinder, push the loader in, and release the cartridges. I liked these because they felt fast and straightforward.
Twist-Knob Speed Loaders
Some models require me to twist a knob to release the rounds. I found these a little slower, but they sometimes felt more secure in my pocket or range bag.
Companion Pouches and Carry Gear
I also realized that a speed loader is only as useful as how I carry it. A good pouch or carrier helped me keep the loader accessible and protected, which made my whole setup more practical.
How I Chose the Right Fit for My Taurus 605
Fit was one of the most important parts of my buying decision. I made sure the loader matched the Taurus 605’s cylinder dimensions and the number of rounds it holds. Since the Taurus 605 is a 5-shot revolver, I needed a loader built for five cartridges. I also checked whether the loader worked with the specific ammunition I planned to use, especially if I switched between .38 Special and .357 Magnum.
Material and Build Quality Matter
I learned quickly that build quality affects how a speed loader feels and performs. Plastic models are usually lighter and often more affordable, while metal-reinforced options can feel sturdier. I preferred a loader that felt solid in my hand and didn’t flex too much. For me, durability mattered because I didn’t want to replace it after only a few range sessions.
Ease of Use at the Range
At the range, I wanted a loader that let me reload without fuss. I practiced several times to see whether I could align the rounds quickly and release them cleanly. A speed loader should save time, but I found that some models require more practice than others. I recommend choosing one that feels natural in my hand and works smoothly with my reload routine.
Concealment and Everyday Carry Considerations
Because I sometimes carry my Taurus 605, I thought about how the speed loader would fit into my daily setup. I looked for something slim enough to carry comfortably and not so bulky that it became annoying. A loader that is great at the range can still be a poor choice if it’s too large or awkward for everyday carry.
Price vs. Value
I found that the cheapest option is not always the best value. I was willing to pay a little more for a loader that felt more reliable and easier to use. For me, value meant getting a product that performed well, lasted a long time, and matched my needs. I treated it as part of my revolver setup, not just an accessory.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Taurus 605 speed loader again, I would focus on three things first: compatibility, ease of release, and durability. I would also practice with it before relying on it, because even the best loader takes repetition to use efficiently. In my experience, the best choice is the one that feels smooth, fits
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Taurus 605 speed loader is a simple but valuable accessory that can make reloading faster and more efficient. I like that it offers a practical way to carry extra rounds while keeping the process straightforward and reliable. For anyone who owns a Taurus 605, I think it’s a worthwhile addition that can improve convenience and confidence at the range or in everyday use.
Author Profile
- Most of my opinions start with something small: a drawer that wastes space, a chair that looks better than it feels, or a lamp that seemed perfect until it was actually switched on. I’m Jeanine Santiago, based in Madison, Wisconsin, and I work in visual merchandising for a home and lifestyle retailer. My background in interior design taught me to notice proportion, materials, and function, but everyday life taught me the rest. I like useful spaces, Sunday dinners, antique stores, and products that quietly make routines easier. That practical curiosity is what I bring to every review I write here.
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