I just got three leather belt slide 38/357 cartridge carriers. Many of the loops are significantly undersize. I am trying stretching/loosening a few carrier loops by inserting a tapering cone - specifically, some plastic body ball point pens.

I am nearly certain there are better ways to "free up" these sticky, undersize cartridge loops, but my ideas extend only as far as ball point pens and Q-tips putting Skidmore's Leather Cream inside each loop to soften and lubricate.

How else can this issue be resolved?
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Regarding why looped carriers rather than speedloaders, my hands are so bad that I cannot manipulate the speedloaders I have. I cannot take two cartridges at a time from my 2x2x2 carriers. But I can manhandle single cartridges - with some droppage - into cylinder. I compensate for droppage with more looped cartridges.

Wow I have always been able to get them in, after the first time it gets much easier.

Most all shoe stores sell a "leather stretcher'' in a aerosol can. I have made bad fitting shoes much better. I would think that would be a last resort move though!

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14 S&W Revs none with locks!

try wetting the loops with water good and inserting some cartridges the leather will stretch some but don't go to far as they will be too loose. i use aluminum case blazers in my cartridge loops as they won't corrode like brass will.

Maybe be for a 32 S & W long

Rubbing alcohol dabbed on the offending loops followed by quickly inserting the cartridges will work quickly.

Leave the cartridges in the loops until loops are dry.

Get some hot water, just hot enough that you can put a finger in it. Wet the loops thoroughly, place shells through the loops. Allow to dry overnight, remove the shells and check fit. They should be snug, but not tight. This process has worked for lots of different leather articles (horse & gun related) over the years. Be sure to apply a leather preservative of your choice afterwards.

Good luck.

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On the Oak Savannah