Being left-handed comes with a series of challenges. In a world that’s sometimes meant for right-handed people, left-handers get a shotty deal in situations. Remember how in the old days they used to make left-handed kids write with their right-hand by tying their left-hand behind their back? That’s pretty horrible.
Here’s the good news: in today’s modern society, more and more companies are making products geared towards left-handed people. That includes firearms. It’s estimated that 10-12 percent of the world’s population are left-handed. So let’s look at some of the best guns for left-handed shooters. “Southpaws” should have a great selection of handguns, rifles, and shotguns too.
One of the features that make a gun work for a left-handed person is the fact that the controls are ambidextrous. That means it works for either a right-hander or left-hander. All of the guns on this list fit that requirement.
Best Handguns
The Glock G19 G5 9mm has an ambidextrous slide stop that makes it a proper choice for a left-hander. It also comes without finger grooves, has a flared magwell, and a bigger cutout in the front. This is a difference from the regular Glock that you’ll notice right away.
Another handgun to try is the Beretta USA PX4 Storm. It’s a great snag-free option for concealed carry. The parts are also interchangeable, which makes it easier for a left-hander to operate and clean.
Best Rifles
The Tikka T3 Hunter is a Finnish company that makes a truly exceptional left-handed hunting rifle. If you are a deer hunting, this is definitely a gun you are going to want to experience. It’s lightweight and holds up to four cartridges.
Another hunting rifle would be the Remington Model 700 CDL. It has the ability to be loaded from the top of the receiver, which makes it a better fit for a left-handed person. Plus, the wood stock looks like a sharp and classic rifle style that you are going to be proud to carry.
Best Shotguns
The Benelli M2 has a patented “Inertia-Driven” system that is fast and reliable in a semi-automatic weapon. In fact, Benelli is a company that make a whole range of guns geared towards good old lefties. They really go out of their way to make more than a dozen shotguns that are going to work for left-handers. This is by far one of the best companies to be aware that left-handed people want to be great hunters too.
The best way to tell if a gun is going to work for you as a left-hander is to try it out for yourself. Call ahead to local shooting ranges in your area to find out if they have a stock of guns that are good for left-handed shooters. You may have to try a range outside of your normal area.
For the rifle I would suggest an old fashioned Winchester Model 92. Even though it loads right handed, there is no need to worry about special order because of a bolt.