The One Thing I Didn’t Expect from the Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader
I’ve been working with outdoor and tactical gear for over a decade, and revolvers have always held a special place in my heart. There’s a simplicity and reliability to them that’s hard to beat, but reloading speed has always been their Achilles’ heel. When I first saw the Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader, I was intrigued by its promise of faster reloads without the bulk of some of the competition-oriented speedloaders.
My journey to this particular speedloader began when I started carrying my S&W Model 642 as a concealed carry piece more often. I wanted a reliable and compact method for reloading, more streamlined than loose rounds or even speed strips. I’d used HKS speedloaders for years, finding them adequate, but always felt there was room for improvement in their profile and ease of use.
The Safariland COMP II arrived in simple packaging, its black injection-molded body feeling sturdy yet lightweight in my hand. Initially, I was skeptical of the “push-to-load” design, having grown accustomed to the twist-knob operation of HKS models. However, compared to HKS, the Safariland offering felt more compact.
I had considered other speedloaders, notably the Safariland COMP III (for competition) and various speed strips. Ultimately, I chose the COMP II for its balance of speed, size, and concealment potential. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, but I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local shooting range, under controlled conditions. I loaded up several Safariland COMP II speedloaders with .38 Special rounds and set about practicing reloads with my S&W Model 642 and a Dan Wesson 15-2. I immediately noticed how the “push-to-load” system required a different technique than the HKS speedloaders I was used to.
The Safariland COMP II performed admirably during my range sessions, even when my hands were sweaty or slightly cold. With some practice, it became intuitive, allowing for faster reloads than I could achieve with speed strips. The lack of rattling, compared to the HKS, was also a significant plus.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of carrying and using the Safariland COMP II, I can confidently say it’s a reliable piece of gear. I’ve carried it daily, exposed to varying temperatures and humidity levels, without any degradation in performance. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuffing from rubbing against my belt and other gear.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. My prior experiences with speedloaders were mixed, with some feeling bulky or unreliable. The Safariland COMP II is now my EDC (Every Day Carry) reload choice because it strikes an excellent balance of speed, size, and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader
Specifications
The Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader is designed to hold six rounds of .38 Special or .357 Magnum ammunition. It is specifically engineered for J-frame revolvers from Smith & Wesson, as well as compatible models from Dan Wesson and Taurus. The speedloader is constructed from injection-molded steel, offering both durability and a lightweight feel.
Its black color ensures a low profile. The COMP II features a medium-sized knob, making it easy to grasp and manipulate, even under stress. The slide attachment type and ambidextrous design further enhance its usability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland COMP II excels in its primary function: quickly and reliably reloading revolvers. Its “push-to-load” mechanism simplifies the reloading process, minimizing fumbling and reducing reload times. The speedloader’s solid construction and secure cartridge retention ensure that rounds are delivered consistently, even during rapid-fire drills.
However, it does require a specific loading technique. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and speed, but it’s not ideal for competition shooting where tenths of seconds matter. The Safariland COMP II meets and, in many ways, exceeds my expectations for a concealed carry reload device.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland COMP II features a straightforward, functional design. Its injection-molded steel construction strikes a good balance between durability and weight. The medium-sized knob is easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloved hands.
The ambidextrous design caters to both right- and left-handed shooters. There is a slight learning curve associated with the “push-to-load” mechanism, but the design is ultimately user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Safariland COMP II lends itself to excellent durability. It can withstand daily wear and tear without showing signs of significant damage. The simple design makes it easy to maintain; a quick wipe down with a cloth is generally all that’s needed.
The Safariland COMP II is built to last. Its simple design means that it is unlikely to require any complex repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland COMP II is a self-contained unit and doesn’t require any additional accessories for its core function. There are no specific customization options available for the speedloader itself. However, it can be paired with various speedloader pouches and carriers for convenient and discreet carry.
The Safariland COMP II is compatible with many aftermarket pouches. While the speedloader itself cannot be customized, the carry method can be adapted to individual preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader
Pros
- Fast and reliable reloading: The “push-to-load” mechanism allows for quick and consistent reloads with practice.
- Durable construction: The steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Compact and concealable: Its slim profile makes it ideal for concealed carry.
- Ambidextrous design: Suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters.
- Simple to maintain: Requires minimal cleaning and upkeep.
Cons
- Requires practice to master the “push-to-load” technique.
- Not ideal for competitive shooting where fractions of a second matter.
Who Should Buy Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader?
The Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader is perfect for:
- Concealed carry permit holders who prioritize a compact and reliable reloading method for their J-frame revolvers.
- Law enforcement officers who carry revolvers as backup weapons.
- Individuals seeking a simple and effective speedloader for home defense.
This product isn’t suitable for:
- Competitive shooters who require the fastest possible reload times (the COMP III might be a better choice).
- Individuals who prefer the twist-knob operation of HKS speedloaders.
A must-have accessory is a quality speedloader pouch or carrier. Deck tape around the Safariland COMP II can help with the user’s grip on the speedloader.
Conclusion on Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader
The Safariland COMP II Ambidextrous J-K2C .38 Special/.357 Mag 6 Round Dan Wesson/ S&W/Taurus Speedloader is a well-designed and reliable tool for anyone who carries a J-frame revolver. Its “push-to-load” mechanism offers a significant improvement over traditional speed strips, providing a faster and more consistent reloading experience. At $21.99, the price is justified given its durability and performance.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland COMP II to anyone looking for a compact, reliable, and easy-to-use speedloader for their J-frame revolver. If you’re looking for a way to improve your reloading speed and confidence, give the Safariland COMP II a try—you won’t be disappointed.