The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless innovations and gadgets come and go. However, the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM from Safariland piqued my interest immediately due to its promise of enhanced speed and reliability in revolver reloading. The compact design and reputation of Safariland were compelling.
I was looking for a speedloader that could improve my reload times during range practice and potentially for personal defense scenarios. Consistency and speed are paramount when working with revolvers. This need pushed me to explore the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM.
Upon unboxing, the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM felt solid and well-constructed. The black polymer material seemed durable enough to withstand regular use. The weight was negligible, which is crucial for a speedloader that you might carry on your person or in a range bag.
Compared to the HKS speedloaders I’ve used in the past, the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM appeared more streamlined and potentially faster to actuate. The HKS uses a twist knob, while the Safariland relies on a push-to-release mechanism. This difference was the main reason I picked this over the older design.
My initial reaction was excitement, tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could it truly deliver on its promise of faster reloads? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM at my local shooting range with my Smith & Wesson Model 19 K-frame revolver. The range offered a safe and controlled environment to evaluate its performance. I ran several drills focusing on speed reloads from a concealed carry position.
The speedloader performed admirably, even under the stress of timed drills. The push-to-release mechanism was intuitive and significantly faster than the twist-knob design I was accustomed to. No issues arose even with slightly dirty ammunition.
The initial uses were impressive; however, a slight learning curve existed in perfecting the alignment of the cartridges with the cylinder. After a few repetitions, muscle memory began to develop, and the reload times improved dramatically. The first-time use was promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM has held up exceptionally well. The polymer material shows no signs of cracking or breaking, even after being dropped on the concrete range floor multiple times. Durability has proven to be better than expected.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is usually all it takes to remove any powder residue. The simple design contributes to its ease of maintenance and lack of required cleaning beyond the basics.
Compared to my previous speedloaders, the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM has proven to be a significant upgrade in terms of speed and reliability. The Safariland clearly outperforms twist-knob speedloaders in speed and ease of actuation. The improvement is significant.
Breaking Down the Features of SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM
Specifications
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM is designed specifically for 5-round .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges. It is designed to fit revolvers with S&W K-Frames, Dan Wesson .38/.357 models, and Taurus 66/669/689 series. Its construction consists of durable black polymer.
It is important to note that this model is specifically designed for 5-shot revolvers. Trying to use it with a 6-shot cylinder will obviously result in a non-functional reload. The polymer construction ensures lightweight carry, while the design allows for positive cartridge retention and quick release.
Performance & Functionality
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM excels in its primary function: rapidly reloading a revolver. The push-to-release mechanism is fast and intuitive, allowing for significantly quicker reloads than traditional twist-knob speedloaders. The cartridge retention is excellent, preventing accidental drops.
The main strength lies in its speed and ease of use. A potential weakness is the specific fitment. It is crucial to select the correct model for your revolver frame. The speedloader greatly enhances revolver usability in practical shooting scenarios.
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM definitely meets and exceeds expectations for a speedloader in this price range. The reload speed combined with the robust build quality provides a worthwhile upgrade. Performance is high.
Design & Ergonomics
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM features a simple and effective design. The molded polymer construction feels robust and provides a secure grip. Its weight is minimal.
The design is user-friendly, though some practice is required to master the reload technique. The learning curve is relatively short. The ergonomics are well suited to the task.
Durability & Maintenance
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM, constructed from durable polymer, is built to last. It can withstand regular use and accidental drops without significant damage. The construction materials are robust.
Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort. A simple wipe-down keeps the speedloader clean and functional. The robust design makes it simple to care for.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM itself does not have many accessories or customization options. Most accessories are related to carrying the speedloader itself, such as pouches and holders. Options exist for belt-mounted or pocket-carried pouches.
Compatibility with other brands is primarily limited to carrying solutions. Specific pouches and holders are designed to accommodate this particular speedloader model. The market provides diverse carry options.
Pros and Cons of SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM
Pros
- Significantly faster reload times compared to traditional twist-knob speedloaders. The push-button release is highly efficient.
- Durable polymer construction ensures longevity. The material is rugged and can withstand regular use.
- Lightweight design for comfortable carry. It doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
- Easy to learn and use, even for beginners. The mechanism is intuitive.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for performance. It gives you a lot for your money.
Cons
- Specific fitment requires careful selection based on revolver frame. Choosing the right model is crucial.
- Requires some practice to master reload technique. There is a slight learning curve.
Who Should Buy SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM?
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM is perfect for revolver enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and individuals who use a revolver for personal defense. It provides a significant advantage in reload speed and efficiency. Anyone looking to improve their revolver handling skills will benefit.
This product might not be necessary for casual shooters who only fire a few rounds at a time. If you are only firing a few rounds at a casual pace, it isn’t needed. Those committed to semi-automatic platforms should also skip this.
A must-have accessory is a quality speedloader pouch for secure and convenient carry. A belt-mounted or pocket-carried pouch allows easy access to the speedloader. A reliable pouch is a great addition.
Conclusion on SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM
The SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM is a well-designed and highly functional speedloader that delivers on its promise of faster revolver reloads. Its durable construction, lightweight design, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any serious revolver shooter. It is an upgrade worth making.
The price of $16.00 is more than justified considering the performance and durability it offers. It represents excellent value for money. The value is exceptional.
I would personally highly recommend the SL COMP II SPD LDR S&W K-FRM to anyone looking to improve their revolver reload speed and efficiency. Upgrade your revolver today and experience the difference! Don’t hesitate to improve your skills and equipment.