The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 Made a Bold First Impression
The revolver, a classic firearm, often suffers from slow reloading times. The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 aims to solve this problem, offering a simple and affordable solution for faster reloads. From the well-known HKS brand, this speedloader promises to streamline the reloading process for popular .38/.357 caliber revolvers.
As someone who carries a revolver as a backup while guiding in the backcountry, speed of reloading can be a life-or-death consideration. I needed a reliable, compact, and easy-to-use method for rapidly reloading my Ruger GP100. My search for a more efficient reloading system led me to the HKS Speedloader.
Upon receiving the HKS Speedloader, the simplicity of the design was immediately apparent. It’s lightweight, constructed of durable plastic, and feels solid in hand. Initially, I compared it to the Safariland Comp-I speedloader, a more expensive option known for its robust construction and automatic release. I chose the HKS due to its lower price point and positive user reviews, hoping to get acceptable performance on a budget.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The plastic housing seemed a bit basic, but the mechanism felt positive enough. At $9.99, my expectations weren’t sky-high, but I was hoping for a reliable tool to enhance my revolver’s practicality.
Real-World Testing: Putting HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test of the HKS Speedloader was at my local shooting range, prepping for a guiding trip. I focused on speed and efficiency drills, using both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds. It was a dry, sunny day, ideal conditions for testing gear.
Using the HKS Speedloader required a bit of practice, getting the alignment correct and the twist motion smooth. The twist-to-release mechanism felt a bit stiff initially, as some other users had commented. However, once mastered, it significantly reduced reloading time compared to manually loading each round.
The only issue I encountered during the first session was occasional difficulty aligning the rounds perfectly with the cylinder chambers on my GP100. This required a slight wiggle and readjustment, slowing down the process slightly. Even with this small hiccup, it was still faster than single loading.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use at the range and during dry-fire practice at home, the HKS Speedloader is holding up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear on the plastic housing, though minor scuff marks are visible. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth keeps it functioning smoothly.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe it down after each use. I’ve found that occasionally lubricating the twist mechanism with a dry lubricant helps keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to my previous method of using loading blocks and manually loading each round, the HKS Speedloader is a significant improvement in speed and convenience.
While it doesn’t offer the rock-solid feel of a more expensive, metal speedloader, it’s proven to be a reliable and functional tool for the price. It certainly outperforms the inconvenience of loading rounds individually, and gives me an acceptable reload time in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100
Specifications
- Caliber: Compatible with .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges, making it versatile for various revolvers. This compatibility allows for a wide range of ammunition choices for the user.
- Capacity: Holds six rounds, matching the standard cylinder capacity of compatible S&W and Ruger revolvers. This eliminates the need for multiple speedloaders for a single reload.
- Compatibility: Designed for specific models, including S&W K-frame and L-frame revolvers, and Ruger GP100 revolvers. Ensuring proper fit is crucial for reliable operation.
- Material: Constructed from durable molded plastic, keeping the speedloader lightweight and resistant to corrosion. The plastic construction reduces weight and prevents metallic rattling.
- Mechanism: Features a twist-knob release, allowing for quick and easy deployment of cartridges into the revolver’s cylinder. The twist mechanism provides a simple and reliable method for releasing the rounds.
Performance & Functionality
The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 performs its primary function – speeding up the reloading process – reasonably well. The rounds are held securely and released with a simple twist. It does require practice to achieve smooth and consistent reloads, but it’s a marked improvement over manually loading cartridges.
One minor weakness is the occasional difficulty aligning the rounds perfectly with the cylinder chambers, particularly with certain bullet profiles. However, with practice and familiarity, this becomes less of an issue. It certainly meets expectations for a budget-friendly speedloader, providing a noticeable increase in reloading speed and efficiency.
Design & Ergonomics
The HKS Speedloader’s design is simple and functional. The molded plastic is lightweight and comfortable to hold. There’s a slight learning curve associated with the twist-to-release mechanism.
However, once mastered, it becomes intuitive and easy to operate. The overall design prioritizes functionality and ease of use over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction of the HKS Speedloader raises some questions about long-term durability, but it seems adequately robust for regular use. As mentioned previously, after several weeks of use, there are no major signs of damage. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
While it may not withstand extreme abuse, it should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The fact that it’s made of plastic means it won’t corrode or rust, which is a plus.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 itself doesn’t come with any accessories. There aren’t really any customization options available for it either. However, it’s compatible with a variety of speedloader pouches and carriers from various manufacturers.
The availability of compatible pouches enhances its practicality for concealed carry or range use. Holsters and speedloader carriers are essential for integrating the HKS into a shooting system.
Pros and Cons of HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100
Pros
- Affordable Price: At around $10, it’s a budget-friendly option for improving revolver reloading speed.
- Significant Reload Speed Increase: Noticeably faster than manually loading rounds one at a time.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry and doesn’t add significant weight.
- Simple to Use: The twist-knob release mechanism is intuitive and easy to learn.
- Compatible with Popular Revolvers: Designed to fit S&W K-frame/L-frame and Ruger GP100 revolvers.
Cons
- Plastic Construction: The plastic housing may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Alignment Issues: Can sometimes be tricky to align rounds perfectly with cylinder chambers.
Who Should Buy HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100?
The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 is perfect for recreational shooters, concealed carriers on a budget, and revolver enthusiasts looking for a simple reloading solution. It is also suitable for individuals who carry a revolver as a backup weapon. This provides a considerable tactical advantage for self-defense scenarios.
This product is probably not ideal for competitive shooters requiring the absolute fastest reload times or those who demand maximum durability from their gear. People expecting premium build quality and unparalleled speed may be disappointed. A good speedloader pouch or carrier is a must-have accessory to ensure convenient access and secure carry.
Conclusion on HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100
The HKS Speedloader For 38/357 Caliber 6 Round S&W & Ruger GP100 offers a functional and affordable solution for speeding up revolver reloads. While the plastic construction may not be the most robust, it provides adequate durability for regular use. The increased reloading speed and ease of use make it a worthwhile upgrade for any revolver shooter.
For a price of $9.99, the value proposition is excellent. It significantly improves the reloading process without breaking the bank. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to enhance their revolver’s practicality.
If you’re ready to make reloading your .38/.357 revolver faster and easier, give the HKS Speedloader a try. You’ll likely find it to be a valuable addition to your shooting gear.