5-Star DC Speed Loader Initial Impressions [2025]

Recently I saw a thread over at pistol-forum about a new speed loader from 5-Star, the DC. Curious, I headed over to their website to check it out, and was pleasantly surprised to see this new loader available for a wide variety of revolvers! I picked up two DC loaders for testing, both for my Colt Viper. I was excited for another option for my Viper, which currently is only compatible with the standard 5-Star twist style loader. On a positive starting note, the new 5-Star DC model fits excellently with my Viper!

5-Star DC Speed Loader Design

Unlike the standard 5-Star loader, the DC uses a push-button release mechanism. This button is located at the front or top of the loader, depending on how you define the orientation of it. The button squeezes inward, with pressure from either the index finger or the thumb, in order to release the locking mechanism of the loader. This button is simply a pressure release, with no tactile or audible “click” to indicate full travel. In my experience, this makes it difficult to tell when full travel has been reached, as the finger simply presses against dull resistance.

I experimented with activating the release with both my index finger and thumb, and I think the index finger was slightly more successful. That said, users should try both methods to see which works best for them. When grasping the loader, you’ll want to ensure you have the release properly oriented, as it will prevent proper seating if said release is facing the frame. I have some concerns with accidental activation when worn or when grasping the loader, but have not experienced premature activation as of this writing.

Much like with the standard 5-Star twist style loader, the DC rattles quite a bit when loaded. Some carry methods can help dampen or stop this rattling, but other carriers will not have any impact. I have worn this a bit in a prototype kydex IWB speed loader pouch, and there is a fair bit of noise from cartridges, especially when moving. It seems like a softer nylon pouch may “hug” the rounds, and help to reduce noise-causing movement.

Real World Use

I’ve worked quite a bit with the 5-Star DC loader over the past week and a half. Some of these sessions have been as long as a continuous hour, while others are just a few reps at a time. During these sessions I’ve used lightweight 38 Special dummy rounds, Magtech 130gr 38 Special FMJ, and Federal 158gr 357 Magnum SJFP loads.

I found that the 5-Star DC loader was NOT consistent in releasing rounds, sometimes leaving one or two rounds hooked in the loader. Occasionally a jiggle would finish releasing rounds, but not consistently. Position of these retained rounds is inconsistent within the loader, so I believe that rules out issues with certain charge holes or a section of the loader. When releasing, cartridges fall out in a stagger, “2-3-4-5-6” rather than all coming out at once. In short, even when successful, it isn’t quick. This is the case with the revolver and loader perfectly vertical, and at a slight muzzle-forward angle.

Rounds however do fall out of the loader cleanly when simply holding the DC in space. There seems to be some interference between the loader and the cylinder. I have seen one other shooter have success with his 5-Star DC loaders, paired with a 7-round Smith & Wesson. I am considering picking up a different model to try with a S&W or Taurus offering as a comparison. That said, the $45 price tag gives me some hesitation after purchasing two with less than stellar results.

Notes from 5-Star

I sent an early draft of this article to 5-Star for feedback and to see if there was any troubleshooting to be done. Below is the response I received from their representative.

Thank you for taking the time to share such detailed feedback on the D6 DC loaders. It’s greatly appreciated and I’m glad to hear they fit your Viper well.

Your notes on the release feel, rattling, and inconsistent round release are very helpful. We’re reviewing this internally as we continue refining the DC series, and feedback like yours plays a big role in future updates.

I’ll be happy to follow up with you once we have revisions or new prototypes available. Thanks again for your support and for helping us improve.

Sounds like there isn’t anything to be done! I’m not sure if they misread my notes, or if they’ve simply discarded aspects that I find most concerning, but there you go. I would not say that the DC loaders fit my Viper well considering the issues I’m having with the ejection of rounds. I think this may impact my decision to try additional DC loaders in the future.

Closing Thoughts on the 5-Star DC Speed Loader

I’m glad to see innovation in the revolver space. I’m even happier to see 5-Star continue to support such a variety of revolvers, most of which are only supported by 5-Star. Overall, it’s a good start from 5-Star, but the DC loader may need a revision. I’d love to give the DC loader my full recommendation, but for now I’d say leave it for administrative purposes and plinking. If you have an offbeat revolver and need a speed loader for carry or competition, the standard 5-Star loader may be a better bet, for now.

The 5-Star DC speed loader comes in at $44.95 MSRP, and is available directly from 5-Star.

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