Kendall, it's a swing-out cylinder. I can drop the cylinder, insert six rounds via the speed loader, close the cylinder, and get off a pretty accurate shot (single action) in under 3 seconds. I've been timed by the police in doing this. A revolver like mine can be faster to load, aim, and fire than an semiauto (mine is in better shape and has had the grips replaced with "rubber" ones). And I'd hear anyone coming in -- breaking glass, etc. Unlike some of my neighbors, I lock the doors and close my garage door! And while someone COULD come into my bedroom windows, they'd need a ladder 'cause it's a 15 foot drop to the yard.