An improved amalgam or resin carrier, which has a plunger and lever mechanism similar to the well-known lever-actuated carrier and which has an easily replaceable sleeve or barrel for holding highly filled materials. The barrel may be easily removed for maintenance, cleaning, or replacement. In an alternate configuration, the barrel may be preloaded with a packable composite dental resin, thus allowing quick and easy clinical use. The preloaded barrel may be manufactured in the form of a disposable cartridge, and is especially suitable for use with light-activated materials.