[MSCPLer]

I purchased a 442 in 2012 along with a couple of Safariland J-C7 Comp speed loaders and a Hogue Rubber Bantam grip. I read that the speed loader was great, and it is, but it needed the bantam grip to allow the speed loader to seat properly when being inserted. Even with the thinner Hogue Bantam, I still find the speed loader snagging on the grip, making it questionable for my use. I only carry the 442 when the S&W 45c is too bulky for the evenings attire.

I'm looking for a recommendation to replace the J-C7 and really wanted to stay away from the strip, unless that is really the loader of choice. Any recommendation is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[bgusty]

I have no experience actually using one, but the 5 star speedloader looks pretty solid and very compact. If someone has any experience with them I would love to hear about it as well.

 

[BigJon10125]

I use speed strips. I like the flatness. Just for your consideration. I looked at speed loaders, but I am already wide enough

 

[nontechguy]

If all else fails, consider a New York reload. Just carry two 442's. Problem solved.

 

[GoSlow]

Take a look a speed strips. Easier to fit in your pocket, IMO.

 

[Paladin3840]

J-frame speed loader

The old stand by is the HKS #36. Carry on the belt in a DeSantis Second Six (split six) case or drop in a pocket. Faster than speed strips and concealable enough with most modes of dress. Many grips are relieved for speed loader clearance; they work with Pachmayr ,Hogue, Crimson Trace, and Uncle Mike's in my own experience.

 

[BugDude]

I switched my 442 grip out to an old school wooden S&W j-frame grip. It's more compact for carry and my HKS speed loader clears it easily. I'm not sure why they ever went away from the classic little wooden grip. All my j-frames have them now.

 

[Sontag]

When I first bought my 442 I carried the HKS #36, which clears the Crimson Trace LG-405 grip easily.

Now I carry a Bianchi Speed Strip because (as others have mentioned) they are easier to conceal, and with practice you can become quite efficient with them.

 

[rugerista]

I switched my 442 grip out to an old school wooden S&W j-frame grip. It's more compact for carry and my HKS speed loader clears it easily. I'm not sure why they ever went away from the classic little wooden grip. All my j-frames have them now.

Can you post a pic or link to the grips you use? I always thought wood was more for show than practical.

 

[Haywood]

The first thing I do when I get a J-Frame is switch the grip to the old Uncle Mikes Boot Grip. I don't know why Smith changed their grips but, they sure didn't do use any favors. The Uncle Mikes let all Speed Loaders work.

 

[Bad Bob]

How much of a clearance issue are you having? What technique are you using to reload? Strips are dismally slow compared to speed loaders used properly.

I use what was called the FBI method.

Revolver Reloading - YouTube

 

[MSCPLer]

Hogue Rubber Grip S&W J Frame Round Butt Rubber Bantam Style Grip. The original grip was thicker at the curved part below the cyl release. It's close to working well, just hangs a little. The speed strips are sounding better, and, if I can get the speed loader to work, I could see myself carrying both speed loader(s) and strip(s). I really like the CJ-7 because the cartridge release is the act of "seating" the loader into the cylinder instead of twisting a knob. Thanks again for all the feedback!

 

[Randall757]

Check this out. 5 Star Firearms | Speed Loaders | Range Blocks | Leather Pouches | 100% American Made
R

 

[BugDude]

Can you post a pic or link to the grips you use? I always thought wood was more for show than practical.

The 442 is the one in the back...the grips on it came off of the 649 in front of it. I ordered those Ebony wood grips for the 649, which are identical to the originals but made of darker wood.

All of my S&W j-frames have the same type wooden grips. Just what I'm used to and works best for me.

 

[Easy8]

I carry snubs everyday i use speed strips and when i go to the range i only reload from them . You will be amazed how fast you get.

 

[kaikane0812]

Freeze the grip and then carefully sand it down to relieve it some, check for clearance and repeat as necessary.

 

[MSCPLer]

After watching and following the video suggested by 40Bob, I'm having much better success using the CJ-7. Continued practice will be needed. I'm also adding strips for extra rounds. Thanks!