As a lifelong outdoorsman and shooting enthusiast, I understand the frustration left-handed shooters face. For too long, the firearms industry catered primarily to right-handed individuals. Finding a comfortable, reliable, and accurate left handed shotgun, or any left handed firearms for that matter, could feel like a treasure hunt. This guide aims to be your definitive resource, covering everything from the popular Beretta A400 left handed 20 gauge to affordable options like the Tristar over under at Walmart, and even exploring options for youth shooters. We’ll delve into the world of left handed shotguns, covering shotguns, pistols, and rifles, and help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Why is finding a left-handed firearm more difficult? The primary issue lies in the design of most firearms, which assumes a right-handed operation. This includes the placement of the ejection port, safety mechanisms (like the Remington 870 left handed safety), and even the cheek weld on rifle stocks. For a left-handed shooter, this can lead to spent casings hitting their face, awkward safety manipulation, and an uncomfortable shooting experience. Furthermore, left eye dominant right handed shotgun shooting presents a unique set of challenges, requiring adjustments to stance and technique. Understanding these challenges is the first step in finding the right firearm.
Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to determine your dominant eye. This isn’t always the same as your dominant hand. A simple test involves pointing at a distant object with both eyes open, then closing one eye at a time. The eye you can still see the object clearly with is your dominant eye. If you’re left handed shooting with your right eye dominant, you may need to consider different techniques or firearms designed for cross-eye dominance. Resources like those from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (https://www.nssf.org/) offer detailed information on shooting fundamentals.
Let's explore some of the most sought-after left handed shotguns available in the US market. We’ll cover a range of price points and applications, from sporting clays to home defense.
The Beretta left handed semi auto shotgun, particularly the A400 series, is widely considered one of the best options available. The Beretta A400 left handed 12 gauge and Beretta A400 left handed 20 gauge models offer exceptional reliability, recoil reduction, and versatility. They are a significant investment, often costing upwards of $1,800, but their performance justifies the price for serious shooters. The A400 Xtreme Unico is a popular choice. You can find more information on Beretta’s website (https://www.berettausa.com/).
Benelli is another Italian manufacturer renowned for its high-quality shotguns. The Benelli M2 left handed and Benelli M4 left handed are both excellent choices, offering similar performance to the Beretta A400. The M4 is particularly popular for tactical applications. Finding a left hand Benelli can sometimes be challenging due to limited availability, but it’s worth the effort. The benelli left hand shotguns are known for their Inertia Driven System, which provides smooth and reliable cycling. Check out Benelli USA (https://www.benelliusa.com/) for current models and availability.
Browning left handed shotguns have a long and storied history. The Browning A5 left handed is a classic semi-automatic shotgun known for its humpback receiver and reliable operation. More modern options like the Winchester SX4 (available in winchester sx4 20 gauge left hand) also offer left-handed configurations. Browning also offers several over/under models in left-hand configurations. Explore Browning’s offerings at (https://www.browning.com/).
The Remington 870 left handed is a legendary pump-action shotgun, and thankfully, left-handed models are available. Understanding the Remington 870 left handed safety is crucial, as it differs from the standard right-handed version. The 870 is a versatile and affordable option, making it a popular choice for home defense, hunting, and sporting clays. However, be aware that the left-handed models can be harder to find than their right-handed counterparts. See Remington’s current catalog at (https://www.remington.com/).
If you’re looking for a more affordable left handed shotgun, the Tristar over under at Walmart is a viable option. While not as refined as the higher-end models, Tristar shotguns offer good value for the money. It’s important to note that where are Tristar guns manufactured? They are typically manufactured in Turkey. Read impala shotguns reviews and impala plus shotgun reviews before purchasing to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
The search for left handed firearms doesn’t stop at shotguns. Here’s a brief overview of left-handed options in other categories.
Finding a true left-handed rifle can be challenging. Many manufacturers offer rifles with ambidextrous controls, which can be a good compromise. However, some companies, like Weatherby, offer dedicated left handed browning rifles and weatherby left hand models. For youth shooters, a left handed youth rifle is essential for safe and comfortable handling.
Similar to rifles, true left-handed pistols are rare. However, several manufacturers offer pistols with ambidextrous controls, making them suitable for left-handed shooters. When considering a handgun for left-handed shooters, look for models with easily accessible magazine releases and slide stops. The best left handed handguns often come down to personal preference and grip comfort. A pistol for left handed person should feel natural in the hand and allow for smooth operation.
The AR-15 platform is highly customizable, and many components are available to convert a right-handed AR-15 into a left-handed configuration. You can find best left handed ar 15 builds with left-handed charging handles, magazine releases, and ejection port covers.
Yes, all modern shotguns have safety mechanisms. However, the location and operation of the safety vary between models. As mentioned earlier, the Remington 870 left handed safety is different from the standard model. Always familiarize yourself with the safety features of any firearm before handling it. The National Rifle Association (https://home.nra.org/) offers comprehensive firearm safety courses.
Finding the right left handed firearms takes time and research. Don’t settle for a firearm that doesn’t feel comfortable and natural. Whether you’re looking for a left handed bullpup shotgun, a reliable hunting companion, or a home defense weapon, there are options available. Remember to prioritize safety, practice regularly, and enjoy the sport of shooting. And don’t be afraid to explore options like the Citadel boss 25 cost or Citadel 12 gauge shotgun review to find a hidden gem that fits your needs and budget.