Speed Strips & Quick Strips: Variations, Benefits, and Why You Should Carry Them
If you carry a revolver, a reload is one of the simplest upgrades you can make—without adding bulk or discomfort. Speed strips (often called quick strips) keep spare ammunition organized, low-profile, and practical for everyday carry. This guide breaks down the main strip variations, the real-world benefits, and the most consistent ways to carry them.
What Are Speed Strips (Quick Strips)?
A speed strip is a flexible strip—typically rubber or polymer—that holds revolver cartridges in a straight line. Instead of carrying loose rounds, you can index the strip and load cartridges into the cylinder in a controlled, repeatable way (commonly two rounds at a time, then rotate and continue).
Speed strips are not meant to replace speed loaders for absolute “fastest possible” full reloads. Their advantage is everyday practicality: flat carry, comfortable concealment, and less bulk in pockets or small bags.
Variations of Speed/Quick Strips
1) Capacity (5, 6, 7, 8 rounds)
- 5-round strips for many small-frame revolvers
- 6-round strips for classic .32/.38/.357/9mm platforms
- 7-round strips for select modern revolvers
- 8-round strips for larger-frame revolvers
Selection tip: Match strip capacity to your cylinder whenever possible. Some carriers intentionally choose a flatter setup (fewer rounds on a strip) for improved pocket comfort and easier indexing.
2) Caliber and Cartridge Fit
Common speed strip configurations include:
- .38 Special / .357 Magnum
- .44 Special / .44 Magnum
- .45 Colt
- 9MM
- .32 H&R
- .32 - family options (depending on manufacturer)
Even within the same caliber, retention and release feel can differ by brand and material. You want a strip that holds rounds securely during daily carry but releases cleanly when loading.
3) Material and Stiffness
- Softer rubber-style strips: very pocket-friendly and comfortable; can require more practice to “peel” smoothly
- Stiffer polymer-style strips: can feel more repeatable for indexing; may be more noticeable in thin pockets
Both can work extremely well. The best strip is the one that fits your revolver, carries comfortably, and supports consistent practice.
4) Reload Philosophy: Full Reload vs. Top-Off
- Full reload approach: load until the cylinder is full
- Top-off approach: replace what you fired and return the revolver to ready condition efficiently
Speed strips are especially effective for top-offs because you can load a couple rounds and keep the remainder secured on the strip—no dumping loose ammunition.
5) Carry Method (How You Actually Carry Matters)
- Loose in a pocket: convenient, but can rotate, snag, collect lint, or print unpredictably
- Wallet-style pouch: comfortable and discreet, sometimes slower to access
- Belt pouch: secure, but often adds bulk and visibility
- Dedicated holder/clip: keeps the strip oriented and improves repeatable access
Benefits of Speed/Quick Strips
- Discreet and low-profile: flatter than many alternative reload methods
- Comfortable for daily carry: easy to pocket carry without “gear bulk”
- More control than loose rounds: organized ammunition reduces fumbling
- Supports partial reloads: top off and keep the remaining rounds secure
- Practical for training: encourages consistent indexing and cylinder management habits
Why You Should Carry Speed Strips
Carrying a reload is about readiness and flexibility. Many popular carry revolvers are intentionally compact, and that often means limited onboard capacity. A speed strip is a low-effort way to keep extra ammunition available without turning your pocket into a bulky gear pouch.
- Extra ammunition is useful beyond “running out.” Real-world conditions are unpredictable; having a reload gives you options.
- Small-frame revolvers are limited by design. A flat strip adds capability while staying easy to conceal.
- Consistency matters. A strip that carries comfortably is far more likely to be carried every day.
Note: Always follow your local laws and safe firearm handling practices. This article is informational and not legal advice.
The Missing Piece: Carrying Strips Consistently
Speed strips are only valuable if you can access them the same way every time. When strips float loose in a pocket, they can rotate, shift behind other items, or become inconsistent to grab. That inconsistency can slow you down and make practice less transferable to real-world conditions.
A dedicated holder helps keep your strip oriented, stable, and easy to draw. That’s why many carriers prefer a purpose-built solution rather than carrying a strip loose.
ExtraCarry Speed Speed Holder/Quick Strip Carrier
ExtraCarry.com makes a holder designed for discreet carry and consistent access your speed strips. If you want a repeatable way to carry your speed/quick strip in-pocket, this is a simple upgrade.
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Practical Tips to Get More Value From Speed Strips
- Practice slowly first: smooth indexing beats rushing.
- Train from your real carry position: pocket access differs from bench drills.
- Standardize your method: two-at-a-time or top-off—then repeat until consistent.
- Inspect retention: if rounds start slipping in daily carry, replace the strip.
FAQ: Speed Strips and Quick Strips
Are speed strips and quick strips the same thing?
In everyday usage, yes. “Speed strip” and “quick strip” commonly refer to flexible strips that hold revolver cartridges in a line for more organized reloads than loose rounds.
Are speed strips faster than speedloaders?
Speed loaders are typically faster for full reloads. Speed strips are often chosen for concealment, comfort, and practical everyday carry—and they work especially well for partial top-off reloads.
What capacity speed strip should I buy?
Start by matching your revolver’s cylinder capacity (5, 6, 7, or 8 rounds). If you prioritize flatter pocket carry, some carriers choose a slightly reduced strip configuration for comfort and easier indexing.
What’s the best way to carry a speed strip?
The best method is the one you will carry consistently. Many people prefer a dedicated holder or clip that keeps the strip oriented and easy to access, improving repeatability versus carrying the strip loose.
Why use a holder instead of carrying the strip loose in a pocket?
Loose strips can rotate, snag, collect lint, or shift behind other pocket items. A holder improves consistent orientation and makes your access more repeatable.
Can speed strips be used for partial reloads?
Yes. Speed strips are well suited to topping off because you can load a couple rounds and retain the rest securely on the strip.