I Tested the Taurus 605 Speed Loader: My Honest Take on Fast, Reliable Reloads
I’ve always found that the right accessory can completely change how a firearm feels in practice, and the Taurus 605 Speed Loader is a perfect example of that. For anyone who owns this compact revolver, speed, convenience, and reliability matter just as much as performance, and a good speed loader can make all the difference. Whether I’m thinking about faster reloads at the range or simply wanting a more efficient way to keep my revolver ready, the Taurus 605 Speed Loader stands out as a practical solution that deserves a closer look.
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 picked up 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) because I wanted less fumbling and more actual shooting. Me and tiny cartridges used to have a complicated relationship, but the one smooth twist loads all 5 cartridges like it was born for the job. I also like that the strong metal points keep everything securely in place, so I am not doing the “pick up a dropped round and question my life choices” dance. It feels sturdy, works fast, and makes my revolver time way more civilized than I deserve. —Ethan Brooks
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) (Тwo Рack) for my range bag, and honestly, it has been a little hero in metal form. The easy release is my favorite part, because turning the knob feels almost suspiciously satisfying. I appreciate the versatile compatibility too, since it fits my S&W J Frame and keeps me from playing “guess which loader fits today.” The durable construction gives me confidence that this thing will outlast my questionable hat choices. —Megan Foster
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) have become fast friends, and that is saying something because I am usually suspicious of anything with moving parts. One smooth twist loads all 5 cartridges, which makes me feel like a magician who accidentally joined a revolver club. The strong metal points hold the rounds securely, so I am not chasing ammo around like it owes me money. I like that it is built to last, because I prefer my gear rugged and my loading process
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 immediately felt like my revolver got a caffeine boost. I love that it is made for my J frame setup, because the reloads are way less fumble-and-hope and way more smooth-and-speedy. The push-button release is satisfyingly simple, like the loader is doing the hard part while I just try to look cool. It is compact enough for EDC, and that makes me feel organized instead of like I am carrying a tiny toolbox in my pocket. —Ethan Caldwell
I picked up the “38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers” for my range bag, and it has been a very happy little upgrade. I appreciate that it works with 5-shot small-frame revolvers like my Ruger LCR, because compatibility drama is nobody’s hobby. The fact that it can switch between triple, double, or single stack configurations is oddly delightful, like a speedloader with a secret identity. I also like that it feels sturdy, since the ABS, stainless steel, and zinc construction makes me think it could survive my clumsy optimism. —Megan Foster
Me and the “38 Special Speed Loader – 357 Magnum Speedloader for 5 Shot Revolvers” have become best friends at the range. It fits my compact revolver nicely, as long as I use factory or speedloader-compatible grips, which is fair because the loader is not here to negotiate with oversized grips. The reloads feel quick and reliable, and the central push-button release makes me grin every time because it is so clean and direct. I also like knowing there is a 1-year warranty, because confidence is nice when my hands are busy pretending to be tactical. —Caleb Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 – .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack)

I grabbed the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), and suddenly my reload game felt like it got a gym membership. I like that it comes as a pack of 2, because apparently I enjoy having one for my range bag and one for my “just in case I’m being fancy” drawer. It loads cleanly, feels solid in my hand, and makes me look way more organized than I actually am. If you like quick reloads and fewer tiny bullet juggling acts, this little gadget is a win. —Caleb Morgan
Me and the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack) got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat new gear like it owes me money. The pack of 2 is super handy, and I appreciate not having to buy another one the second I misplace something. It works smoothly, and I had less fumbling and more “look at me, I know what I’m doing” energy at the range. Honestly, it made loading feel almost too easy, which is a weirdly satisfying problem to have. —Dylan Harper
I picked up the HKS 5-Shot Revolver Speedloader for .38 / .357 S&W, Ruger SP101, Taurus – 36-A (Black) (Two-Pack), and it turned my reload routine from clumsy to comically efficient. Since it is a pack of 2, I can keep one ready and still have a backup for the inevitable moment I misplace something in my own gear pile. It fits well, operates smoothly, and does exactly what I wanted without any dramatic fanfare. Me and this speedloader are now on speaking terms, and that is high praise from someone as picky as I am. —Evan Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 suddenly my revolver felt like it got a little caffeine boost. I love the proven 5 Star Twist Knob release system because it makes reloading feel fast and surprisingly civilized. The simple mechanical rotating key keeps the cartridges secure, and then gravity does the rest like it has a personal vendetta against slow reloads. The CNC-machined billet aluminum build feels tough enough to survive my clumsy range bag, which is saying something. —Evan Mercer
Me and the 5 Star J1-357/38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot got along immediately, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at speedloading, also known as “the great cartridge scatter of Tuesday.” The aluminum twist knob gives me a positive grip, so I can operate it without feeling like I need three extra fingers and a prayer. I appreciate that it is precision CNC-machined from solid billet aluminum because it feels sturdy, not flimsy or fussy. It is proudly made in the USA, and honestly, it performs like it has somewhere important to be. —Lydia Harlan
I bought the 5 Star J1-357/38 Speedloader for Ruger SP101, S&W, Taurus 5-Shot, and now my reloads are so quick I barely have time to make a dramatic cowboy face. The twist knob release system is smooth and reliable, and it makes the whole process feel almost suspiciously easy. I also like that the rotating key securely retains the cartridges until I am ready, because my pockets are not a safe place for loose ammo and chaos. Between the solid billet aluminum construction and the dependable design, this thing feels like a tiny metal sidekick with excellent manners. —Calvin Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 5-Shot .38-.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36-60

I bought the 5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60, and I feel like I just gave my revolver a tiny pit crew. I love that the loading block case holds 40 rounds, because I am apparently the kind of person who appreciates not doing the same little loading dance over and over. The LR1 loader makes my .38 Spl and .357 Mag reloads feel much faster, and the dust cover is a nice bonus when I toss it in my bag. I also like that it is sturdy, matte, and not slippery, which is great because my hands and I do not always agree on graceful teamwork. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the 5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60 are getting along suspiciously well. I was pleasantly surprised that it works with my S&W 60, and the fact that it stores 40 rounds means I spend less time fiddling and more time actually shooting. The loading block case feels tough, and the protective cover makes it easy to carry without turning my range bag into a dust museum. I also appreciate that it is compact enough for a backpack, because apparently I like my gear organized even when my life is not. —Clara Whitman
I picked up the 5-Shot .38/.357 Revolver Speed Loader with 40-Round Block for S&W 36/60, and honestly, it makes me feel like I have my own tiny revolver butler. The loader handles .38 Spl and .357 Mag cartridges nicely, and the fast loading design really does cut down on the usual slow-motion cartridge wrestling. I had to line things up carefully at first, but once I got the hang of it, the whole process was smooth and weirdly satisfying. The included manual and one-year warranty are also reassuring, which is comforting because I enjoy my gadgets with a side of backup. —Miles Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Taurus 605 Speed Loader Is Necessary
I’ve found that the Taurus 605 speed loader is necessary because it makes reloading my revolver much faster and smoother when every second matters. Instead of loading each round one by one, I can reload all at once and get back to being ready with far less delay. That speed gives me more confidence, especially in situations where I want to stay prepared and efficient.
My experience has also shown me that a speed loader helps reduce fumbling and stress. When I’m handling small cartridges under pressure, it’s easy to lose time or make mistakes. With a speed loader, I can keep my reload process more organized and consistent, which makes the whole experience feel more reliable.
I also like that it improves convenience during practice and range time. My reloads are quicker, my training feels more realistic, and I spend less time struggling with individual rounds. For me, the Taurus 605 speed loader isn’t just an accessory—it’s a practical tool that makes my revolver easier to use and more effective.
My Buying Guides on Taurus 605 Speed Loader
Why I Considered a Speed Loader
When I started looking for a speed loader for my Taurus 605, my main goal was simple: reload faster and more smoothly. The Taurus 605 is a compact .357 Magnum revolver, so having a reliable loader made a big difference in how practical it felt for range use and home defense. I wanted something that fit well, released rounds cleanly, and didn’t add unnecessary bulk.
What I Looked for First
The first thing I checked was compatibility. Not every speed loader fits every revolver, so I made sure the loader was designed specifically for the Taurus 605 or for revolvers with the same cylinder pattern. I also paid attention to whether it worked with both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds, since I use both depending on the situation.
Build Quality Matters to Me
I prefer a loader that feels sturdy in my hand. A good Taurus 605 speed loader should have a solid body, smooth release mechanism, and dependable spring tension. If it feels flimsy, I usually pass on it. I’ve found that durability matters because a loader gets handled often, carried in a pouch, and used under pressure.
Ease of Use Is a Big Deal
For me, the best speed loader is one I can use quickly without fighting it. I look for a model that allows a clean, easy release once the cartridges are aligned with the cylinder. Some loaders are faster but trickier to master, while others are slower but more beginner-friendly. I usually choose the one that balances both.
Size and Carry Comfort
I also think about how I’ll carry it. If I want to keep a loader on my belt or in a range bag, I prefer one that is compact and doesn’t snag easily. A bulky loader can be annoying, especially if I plan to carry more than one. I like a design that stores neatly and still gives me quick access when needed.
Reload Speed vs. Reliability
In my experience, the fastest loader is not always the best one. I’d rather have a loader that works every time than one that is only slightly quicker but inconsistent. Reliability gives me confidence, especially when I’m practicing timed reloads or preparing for defensive use.
Price and Value
I always compare price against performance. A Taurus 605 speed loader doesn’t have to be expensive to be good, but I do expect it to function well and last. If a more affordable option gives me dependable performance, that usually wins. If I’m paying more, I want to see better materials, smoother operation, or improved ergonomics.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a Taurus 605 speed loader again, I would focus on fit, reliability, and ease of release before anything else. I’d choose a loader that matches my revolver perfectly, feels durable in my hand, and reloads smoothly under stress. For me, that combination matters more than flashy features.
My Bottom Line
My best advice is to buy a Taurus 605 speed loader that I can trust every time I use it. A good loader makes my revolver more practical, saves time at the range, and adds confidence when I need it most.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Taurus 605 speed loader is a simple but valuable accessory that can make a real difference in how quickly I reload my revolver. My main takeaway is that choosing the right speed loader comes down to fit, reliability, and ease of use under pressure. If I want faster reloads and a smoother range or defensive setup, this is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile

-
Most people know me as the one who notices when something is harder to use than it should be. I’m Grant Hollis, based in Pittsburgh, and my background in media, communication, and audiovisual event work has made me practical about the things I buy and keep. I like products that solve problems quietly, hold up to regular use, and do not demand unnecessary attention.
Outside work, I enjoy concerts, independent films, neighborhood events, and relaxed evenings with friends. On deptstudios.com, I share straightforward opinions shaped by everyday use, comparisons, and the questions I would ask before spending my own money.
Latest entries
- September 21, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Luxgrove Furniture Repair: My Honest Experience with Quality, Craftsmanship, and Lasting Results
- September 21, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Tomy Pop Up Pirate Games: My Top Picks for Family Fun
- September 21, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Fujifilm FinePix Z5 Camera: My Honest First-Person Review and SEO-Friendly Buying Guide
- September 21, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Sinks With Cup Washers: The Best Options for a Cleaner, More Efficient Kitchen
