Five Star's New DC Speedloader Mixes Turn-Loader and Derringer Parts

Speedloader design doesn't change much these days, which makes the Five Star Firearms DC worth a second look. In a video from C&Rsenal, the host tracks down the backstory on this new revolver loader straight from Five Star's Garrett D. SO, explaining how a familiar turn-loader concept got crossed with hardware from a derringer project to produce something genuinely different.

Key points

• Origin story: the DC builds on Five Star's earlier turn-loader, itself a descendant of the HKS design, per C&Rsenal's conversation with Garrett D. SO.
• Mechanism mashup: SO combined that turn-loader base with a release mechanism originally developed for a two-shot .410 derringer, then reworked it into a rotating cam.
• Dual compression: the DC name refers to its two internal springs, which the video shows rocking rim-retaining lugs back and forth with each button press.
• Operation: align the loader with an open cylinder, press the button, and lift away to release rounds; loading it works the same way in reverse.
• Fresh release: C&Rsenal notes the DC hit the market in October 2025, making it the newest speedloader the channel has covered.

Quick take

C&Rsenal's host calls the DC one of the more unique mechanical speedloaders he's handled, and the demonstration backs that up, it looks smoother and more deliberate than typical turn-knob designs. Whether that mechanical complexity holds up to years of range use and hard drops remains to be seen, but as a design story, it's a solid watch for anyone who geeks out on revolver hardware.

Watch the full video: C&Rsenal