A magazine loader is disclosed that facilitates the rapid loading of firearms magazines. A loader, as disclosed, can receive magazines and ammunition and, by means of manipulation of a handle or shaft, a gear within the loader may motivate a plate to push ammunition into a magazine. Ammunition may be pushed into the magazine until the magazine is filled to capacity. Once filled, the magazine may be ejected from the loader by operation of the plate. Ammunition and magazines may be oriented in any manner and several magazines may be loaded at once.