Left Handed Hunting Rifles: A Comprehensive Guide for Southpaw Hunters
For left-handed hunters, the right equipment can make all the difference. While the world often caters to right-handed individuals, the availability and quality of left handed hunting rifles have significantly improved in recent years. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of left handed hunting rifles, covering everything from their benefits to selecting the right model for your needs. Finding the perfect left handed hunting rifle is crucial for safety, comfort, and ultimately, success in the field.
The Importance of Left Handed Hunting Rifles
Using a right-handed rifle as a left-handed shooter presents several challenges. The most immediate is difficulty in operating the action. Reaching across the rifle to cycle the bolt can disrupt your aim, slow down follow-up shots, and potentially compromise your safety. More subtly, but just as importantly, it affects the shooter’s comfort and confidence, which in turn can impact accuracy.
Left handed hunting rifles are designed with the bolt action, ejection port, and sometimes even the cheekpiece configured for left-handed shooters. This allows for a smoother, more natural shooting experience. The ability to maintain a solid cheek weld while cycling the action enhances accuracy and reduces the risk of disturbing your aim during critical moments.
Benefits of Using a Left Handed Hunting Rifle
- Improved Accuracy: Maintaining a consistent cheek weld and sight picture while cycling the action leads to greater accuracy.
- Enhanced Speed: Faster follow-up shots are possible due to the natural positioning of the bolt action.
- Increased Safety: Less movement required to operate the rifle reduces the risk of accidental muzzle sweeps and other safety hazards.
- Greater Comfort: A rifle designed for your dominant hand feels more natural and comfortable to use, reducing fatigue during long hunts.
- Better Control: A proper grip and the ability to manipulate the action without shifting your position gives you better overall control of the firearm.
Types of Left Handed Hunting Rifles
The market for left handed hunting rifles has expanded significantly. Here are some common types you’ll encounter:
Bolt-Action Rifles
Bolt-action rifles are the most common type of left handed hunting rifle. They are known for their accuracy, reliability, and wide range of caliber options. The bolt is located on the left side of the receiver, allowing for easy cycling with the left hand while maintaining a solid grip with the right.
Semi-Automatic Rifles
Semi-automatic rifles chambered in hunting calibers are also available in left-handed configurations, although less common. These rifles offer faster follow-up shots but may sacrifice some accuracy compared to bolt-action rifles. The ejection port is located on the left side, ensuring that spent casings are ejected away from the shooter’s face.
Lever-Action Rifles
While less prevalent, some manufacturers offer lever-action rifles with left-handed features. These rifles provide a classic hunting experience with a unique action. However, true left-handed versions might be difficult to find, with many left-handed shooters adapting to standard right-handed models.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Left Handed Hunting Rifle
Selecting the right left handed hunting rifle involves careful consideration of several factors:
Caliber
The caliber of your rifle should be appropriate for the game you intend to hunt. Common hunting calibers include .243 Winchester, .270 Winchester, 7mm Remington Magnum, .30-06 Springfield, and .308 Winchester. Research the ballistics and effective range of each caliber to determine which is best suited for your hunting needs. Consider the terrain, typical shot distances, and the size and toughness of the game.
Action Type
As discussed earlier, bolt-action rifles are the most common and generally preferred choice for left-handed hunters due to their accuracy and reliability. However, semi-automatic rifles may be suitable for certain types of hunting where rapid follow-up shots are essential.
Stock Material and Design
The stock material affects the rifle’s weight, durability, and recoil absorption. Common stock materials include wood, synthetic polymers, and composite materials. Wood stocks offer a classic look and feel, while synthetic stocks are more resistant to weather and wear. The stock design should provide a comfortable and secure grip, with an appropriate length of pull for your arm length. Look for stocks with adjustable cheekpieces for optimal eye alignment with the scope. Many left handed hunting rifles come with stocks specifically designed for left-handed shooters, ensuring a comfortable and natural shooting position.
Weight
The weight of the rifle is an important consideration, especially if you will be carrying it for long distances. Lighter rifles are easier to carry but may have more felt recoil. Heavier rifles are more stable but can be tiring to carry. Strike a balance between weight and stability based on your physical fitness and hunting style.
Optics
A quality scope is essential for accurate shooting. Choose a scope with appropriate magnification for the distances you will be shooting. Consider factors such as lens quality, field of view, and eye relief. Ensure that the scope is properly mounted and sighted in for your rifle. [See also: Best Hunting Scopes for Left Handed Shooters]
Budget
Left handed hunting rifles are available at a wide range of price points. Determine your budget and research rifles within that range. Consider the long-term value of the rifle, including its durability, accuracy, and reliability. Don’t necessarily opt for the cheapest option; investing in a quality rifle will pay off in the long run with improved performance and enjoyment.
Popular Left Handed Hunting Rifle Models
Several manufacturers offer excellent left handed hunting rifles. Here are a few popular models:
- Savage Arms 110 Apex Hunter XP Left Hand: Known for its accuracy and affordability, this rifle comes with a pre-mounted and bore-sighted Vortex Crossfire II scope.
- Remington Model 700 CDL SF Left Hand: A classic bolt-action rifle with a stainless steel barrel and a beautifully finished wood stock.
- Browning X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed Left Hand: A high-performance rifle with a composite stock and a Cerakote finish for enhanced durability.
- Weatherby Mark V Accumark Left Hand: Renowned for its accuracy and long-range performance, this rifle features a hand-laminated composite stock and a fluted barrel.
- Ruger American Rifle All-Weather Left-Handed: A reliable and affordable option with a durable synthetic stock and a stainless steel barrel, perfect for harsh weather conditions.
Maintaining Your Left Handed Hunting Rifle
Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and accuracy of your left handed hunting rifle. Clean your rifle regularly after each use to remove powder residue, dirt, and moisture. Lubricate the moving parts to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. Store your rifle in a safe and secure location, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Regularly inspect your rifle for any signs of damage or wear, and have it serviced by a qualified gunsmith as needed.
The Future of Left Handed Hunting Rifles
The demand for left handed hunting rifles continues to grow as more manufacturers recognize the needs of left-handed shooters. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative designs and features incorporated into left handed hunting rifles. The increased availability and quality of these rifles will undoubtedly enhance the hunting experience for left-handed shooters for years to come. The commitment of manufacturers to cater to the left-handed market signals a positive trend for inclusivity in the shooting sports. [See also: New Innovations in Left Handed Rifle Design]
Conclusion
Investing in a left handed hunting rifle is a worthwhile decision for any left-handed hunter. The improved accuracy, enhanced speed, increased safety, and greater comfort make a significant difference in your hunting experience. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can select the perfect left handed hunting rifle to suit your needs and enjoy many successful hunts.
