Left handed shooters are all too familiar with the frustration of using right-handed firearms.
Considering that the majority of AR-15s are designed for right-handed shooters, left-handed shooters can struggle to find the gear that is designed for them. This isn’t a surprise with right-handed people making up approximately 90% of the population. However, all hope is not lost!
Check out the best left handed AR-15 rifles and rifle parts of 2021 below.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Left Handed AR 15 Rifles
- BEST OVERALL AND BEST LEFT-HANDED LOWER RECEIVER: Aero Precision - AR-15 Ambidextrous Lower Receiver 5.56 Black
- RUNNER-UP: Stag 15L Tactical
- Stag Arms - AR-15 Complete 3 Gun Elite Upper Receiver 5.56mm
Comparison of the Best Left Handed AR-15 Rifles and Parts
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What to Watch For When Buying Left Handed AR Components
There are a few key factors to keep an eye on when shopping for left handed AR components. While this is true for all firearms and firearm parts, check out the following information for what to watch for specifically for lefties.
This Section Written By: Brian Belko
Expert Author
Brian is an experienced freelance writer and technical writer who has previously written for publications such as Wide Open Spaces, Bigfoot Gun Belts, Alien Gear Holsters, and Kampgrounds of America. He brings both a passion for writing and a love of the outdoors to his published content.
Aside from writing and the outdoors, Brian enjoys gardening, being a co-host on The Nostalgia Blast Podcast, and learning to code.
A Better Understanding
When it comes to handedness, there are three types of AR-15s and AR-15 components: right-handed, left-handed, and ambidextrous. Keeping it simple, right-handed AR-15 rifles have the ejection port on the right side while left-handed AR-15 rifles have the ejection port on the left side. One of the worst parts of shooting a right-handed AR-15 left-handed, or vice versa, is the potential of hot brass hitting the shooter in the face or other body parts.
When it comes to ambidexterity, that mostly refers to the controls on an AR-15 being able to be used by both left and right handed shooters. This includes things like the safety lever and magazine release.
From the Ground Up
It is possible to simply purchase a complete left-handed AR-15. There are a few great options from well-regarded manufacturers on the market today. However, one option that a lot of left-handed shooters are taking is building a left-handed AR-15 from the ground up. This offers shooters a lot more control over their rifle and allows for it to be set up for personal specifications.
If you decide to build your own left-handed AR-15, there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to get a lower receiver that is at least ambidextrous. You can go left-handed only, but it would be easier to sell something ambidextrous if you ever decided to do that. Choose an upper receiver that has the ejection port on the left side. This is what makes an AR-15 comfortable to the shooter for left-handers after all. Double check that the model you choose is actually left-handed before buying.
Look for parts that feature a durable finish and come from recognized brands. That goes for pretty much all gun parts, but don’t sacrifice quality for left-handedness. There are plenty of parts out there that check both of those boxes.
Keep Price in Mind
Don’t be surprised when you see higher prices for left-handed AR-15s and AR-15 components than their right-handed equivalents. This isn’t to say they will be exorbitantly higher, but it is smart to budget a little higher when targeting a left-handed AR-15 or left-handed components. Most gun stores won’t have them in stock either so you might even have to wait a few extra days for your gear.
Review of the Best Left-Handed AR-15 Rifles
Below are seven of the best left-handed AR-15 rifles currently on the market. As you’re going through each of them, be sure to note some of the features and functions. Is it worth the investment? Is it reliable? These are a sample of the long list of questions that you’ll be answering while your search progresses.
In the meantime, let’s begin with our list by unveiling the “best overall” left-handed AR-15 rifle:
Best Overall and Best Left-Handed Lower Receiver
Aero Precision – AR-15 Ambidextrous Lower Receiver 5.56 Black
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Review
For those who want to build their left-handed AR-15 rifle from the ground up, this is the top choice. Yes, while an upper receiver is important, so is a lower receiver.
Our best choice for a left-handed lower is the Aero Precision AR-15 Ambidextrous Lower Receiver. This product will work with uppers that have barrels chambered in the 5.56 caliber. So chances are it will work well with an upper like the Stag Arms AR-15 Complete Upper Receiver.
This is constructed in high-quality, super durable aluminum. In plain English, it can take on a lot of abuse. For a rifle that has the ability to rapidly fire powerful shots, it can handle large amounts of rounds and the recoil that goes with them.
For added strength, this includes a black anodized finish. Since this is made in the USA, you know it has to be top quality. Most gun manufacturers in America won’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to strict standards on quality.
This will fit with most drop-in trigger assemblies. So if you plan on finding one that will give you a crisp, no-creep kind of shooting, this lower receiver is worth the investment. While we’re at it, you should find a trigger assembly that will give you a light, smooth pull.
Because the smoother the pull, the quicker you’re able to get a shot off. No matter the application, timing is everything.
Getting back on course, this lower receiver is an ambidextrous lower that will most benefit left-handed shooters. In fact, it’s as close as you can get to anything remotely left-handed.
Bottom Line
The Aero Precision Ambidextrous Lower Receiver is probably the only reliable lower on the market that will fit left-handed shooters. If your goal is to build a left-handed AR-15 rifle outright, you’ll obviously need the right kind of parts to accommodate you.
A lower receiver is what you’ll need to house the trigger assembly and all the parts needed to help your rifle function. So why not choose something like the Aero Precision lower to give you a feel that’s closest to being left-handed?
Pros
Comes With a Bolt Catch Installed
Fits Both Left-Handed and Right-Handed Shooters
Light in Weight. Won’t Add Any Unnecessary Weight to a Point Where it Feels Heavy
Cons
Some Manufacturing Parts May Not Fit
Receiver is Fully Stripped. So Parts Will Need to Be Purchased Separately
Runner-up
Stag 15L Tactical
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Review
Next, we’ll be taking a look at the Stag 15L Tactical. This rifle is available in either the 5.56 NATO or the .223 caliber. Whichever you prefer, you’ll love having a rifle that won’t give you difficulty just because you’re a left-handed shooter.
The barrel of the gun has a 1:7 twist, making it a potentially accurate rifle that can shoot with pinpoint accuracy. No matter the purpose, if you can hit the bullseye, it’s good enough for you. It’s measured at 16 inches and has a carbine gas system.
The safety selector is designed for left-handed shooters (and nothing else), so if you’re looking for something that has an ambidextrous safety instead, you might be disappointed.
This comes equipped with a 30-round magazine. You’ll have just enough rounds to get you through the day while you’re hunting for the big game targets.
However, it’s always good to have spare magazines handy if you’re out in the field or if you’re spending the day at the range. Having that many rounds doesn’t seem like too little or too much for most shooters.
If you’re looking for a high-quality rifle constructed with high-quality parts and accessories, the Stag 15L Tactical might be exactly what you’re looking for in a left-handed AR-15 rifle.
Bottom Line
The Stag 15L is the manufacturer’s left-handed answer to their signature Stag 15 rifle. Now, left-handed shooters enjoy the same shooting experience and benefits that their right-handed counterparts have long enjoyed. This is a multi-purpose rifle best used for hunting, home defense, or target practice.
No matter the purpose, left-handed shooters will no longer have to worry about accuracy issues or anything else that they’ve long dealt with while trying to shoot with a right-handed rifle.
Pros
Very Accurate Shooting
Very Comfortable While in the Firing Position
Available in Different Customization Options Based on Compliance Laws in Select States (California, New York, etc.)
Cons
Some Features and Functions May Differ Depending on Which Customization Option You Choose. Some May Be Compliant With One State’s Laws, but Won’t Be in Another State
Stag Arms – AR-15 Complete 3 Gun Elite Upper Receiver 5.56mm
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Review
Next, we’ll be taking a look at the left-handed upper that is the best fit for an AR-15 rifle. We get it, maybe you don’t want to get a left-handed AR-15 outright.
Maybe you’re more of the building type. And we won’t blame you if that’s the case. In fact, we’ll salute you for taking matters into your own hands.
If you’re looking for an excellent upper receiver to convert your rifle into a left-handed machine, the Stag Arms AR-15 Complete 3 Gun Elite Upper Receiver is a great choice. This will best fit on rifles among the 5.56 NATO caliber.
The first thing you’ll notice is that it has an 18-inch barrel that is fully fluted. This means heat dissipation will be fast and debris will be easy to clean out of the barrel.
Made from stainless steel with a barrel twist of 1:8, this will be the perfect upgrade or addition to any build if you’re looking to get maximum accuracy out of it.
This upper receiver has a rifle-style gas system, but the gas block itself is low profile. The handguard is an M-LOK style measured at 16 inches in length. This also will give you the opportunity to customize your rifle to how you like.
So if you have a scope or an optic you’re willing to give a try, you’ll want an upper receiver that will be able to accommodate that. The Stag Arms product is something that will be definitely up for the challenge.
Bottom Line
If you’re more of a builder, then you’ll definitely need the appropriate parts so your project is a great success. Building a rifle, no matter if it’s for righties or lefties, can be a challenge.
But if you’re looking for an excellent accessory that will be best-designed for the lefty shooter like yourself, this Stag Arms AR-15 Complete Upper receiver might be the first thing to start with.
Pros
Provides Very Accurate Shooting
Forged in Hard Coating for Added Durability
Best Left-Handed Upper Receiver for a Left-Handed AR-15 Rifle
Cons
None
Best Left-Handed Charging Handle
Phase 5 Tactical – AR-15/M16 Ambidextrous Charging Handle
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Review
Next, we’ll be taking a look at the Phase 5 Tactical AR-15/M16 Ambidextrous Charging Handle. This is the perfect addition to have if you want a handle that will best accommodate left-handed shooters.
And since this is an ambidextrous charging handle, once again we provide you with a part considered the closest thing you can get to left-handed.
This is made of high-quality aluminum, so it will be durable and be able to handle rough and tough usage. Expect this to last you a long while since it’s thicker than regular charging handles.
The charging handle is provided to give you a more positive charge while you’re using your AR-15, especially when you’re using one designed to retain your weapon in place, in times when you need it most (like a competitive shooting contest).
This has contact points so broad that will be easy to manipulate your rifle if you so choose to do so.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a product that will be reliable and last you a long time, the Phase 5 Charging Handle is probably what you’ll want to add on to your new AR-15 build. It will also serve as a suitable replacement for all other currently existing left-handed AR-15 rifles.
Either way, you’re getting something that’s beefy in size and will aid in making your firing ability much more reliable.
Pros
Solid Feel in Either Hand
Very Well-Constructed for a Mil-Spec Charging Handle
Can Work With Most Uppers, Especially DPMS Brand Uppers
Cons
Edges at the end of the extension are a bit sharp
The extension at the end may be a little too long for some shooters
Best Left-Handed Mag Release
Troy Industries, Inc. – AR-15/M16 Ambidextrous Magazine Release
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Review
Finally, we’ll be taking look at the best left-handed mag release currently on the market. Our mag release of choice is brought to us by the Troy Industries brand. There will be times your magazine will malfunction. Yes, it happens.
But what if you want a mag release that is quick and reliable? What if you want something that will easily allow you to release your magazine and replace it with a spare? You’ll find it in the AR-15/M16 Ambidextrous Magazine Release.
This is an easy to install magazine release that will work like your normal factory made an accessory. Even better, it will also work without interfering with any ambidextrous bolt releases. This is the closest mag release you can get to a full-blown left-handed release.
So if you’re looking for a mag release that will best benefit you and save you time and struggle, this ambidextrous magazine release might be the best possible option for your current AR-15 build.
This puppy is built solidly and is quite durable. In fact, this is the kind of magazine release that you would find in most military or tactical style weapons. Built tough and able to handle extreme conditions, you’ve got a magazine release that will work whenever you need it most.
Bottom Line
Nothing makes an AR-rifle more reliable than a magazine release that will work quickly. Magazines will malfunction. Your spare mags will be used at some point during a competition or a long day at the range.
Either way, you’ll need a magazine release that will let the mags fall freely without jamming and will give you more time and speed to slide in a new, freshly loaded magazine.
If saving time and fast magazine loading is what you look for, this magazine release will do the trick for your AR-15 left-handed rifle.
Pros
Very Simple to Install
Releases Magazines Quickly
Does Not Rattle While You Fire Your Rifle
Cons
Might Be a Little Pricey for Some Budget Shoppers
Some Users Have Complained About This Breaking During Installation
Stag 15L SL SBR
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Review
Next on the docket is another Stag 15L rifle. This time, we’ll be taking a look at the SL SBR. Stag Arms rifles have long been the best in terms of durability and reliability. If those are two of the top priorities on your list, then you may want to pay close attention to this rifle in particular (or any of the other Stag brand rifles on this list).
One of the things you’ll notice right away is that it includes a free-floating handguard. This is considered one of the best accessories to have on an AR-style rifle. That’s because free-floating handguards not only improve your accuracy considerably, but they are also designed to give you faster heat dissipation.
Also included is a Magpul CTR stock. The stock is made from a polymer material, making it very durable. It will aid in helping reduce recoil and give you complete control over your rifle in the process. When you have less recoil and better control, your shots will be consistently accurate.
Also included in the rifle itself is your left-handed safety selector and your 30-count PMAG magazine.
Stag is so confident in their rifles lasting a long time that they stand by a lifetime warranty. So if you’re looking for a rifle that won’t steer your wrong for years or even decades down the road, the Stag 15L SL SBR rifle might be yours to own.
Bottom Line
If you hold accuracy to a high standard, this rifle will be your best friend for as long as you live. The free-floating rail and the ability to give you full control over your rifle thanks to the polymer Magpul buttstock will certainly give you consistent, accurate shots each time you pull the trigger.
At the same time, it’s light in weight and will take a lot of poundings over the course of many years. If you’re looking for the last AR-15 rifle you’ll ever need to buy for a while, you’d be insane not to give this Stag 15L rifle a close look.
Pros
Very Accurate Shooting
Easy to Disassemble and Clean
Light in Weight. Doesn’t Feel Like You’re Carrying a Ton
Cons
State Configurations Will Differ for Compliance Laws. Some Features and Functions Won’t Be Compliant With One State, Even if it is With Another
Stag 15L Bones
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Review
Now, we’ll be taking a look at the best left-handed AR-15 rifle for the money. If you’re on a budget and you want a product that will be reliable no matter the application, the Stag 15L Bones is something that deserves a closer look.
What makes it the best rifle that can be affordable for most budgets? For one, it’s customizable. For example, the stock is customizable since it includes a six-position buffer tube. This will fit any shooter regardless if you’re short in stature or a big-and-tall kind of shooter.
Customization is always one of the top qualities AR-15 shooters look for. They want something that will fit them personally. Why settle for something that is considered a “one-size-fits-all” kind of rifle?
At the same time, you can customize it to your desire by adding your favorite scope or optic. Plus, a good free-floating handguard will look nice on this. That will up your accuracy game quite a bit.
Speaking of accuracy, the barrel has a twist rate of 1:7. Most barrels with this kind of ratio will be more accurate than other rifles with different twist rates.
These will work with rounds that weigh from about 55-grain to about 70-grain. If you have some rounds of that weight that you’re dying to fire off, then this is the rifle you’ll probably want.
This product is your best possible option for a left-handed AR-15 if you’re on a budget. Even if you have money to play around with, you’ll want this rifle for the customizability and hard to match performance.
Either way, the Bones AR-15 rifle from Stag will stand out among the rest. The question is: how will you customize it?
Bottom Line
As expected, the Bones is the kind of rifle that goes above and beyond the norms of a budget AR-15 rifle. Customizable and the best fit for left-handed shooters? How can you resist? If you want a rifle that will allow you to customize it to your advantage, the Stag 15L Bones might be the rifle you’ll want to own.
The first step to a custom left-handed AR-15 rifle is purchasing this one. Once you have it, find the accessories you want to install on it and be ready to go.
Pros
Overall Construction is Quite Solid
Will Fit Most BCGs and Free-Floating Handrails
Comes in a Hard-Shell Case for Extra Protection
Cons
None
Ambidextrous vs. Left-Handed vs. Right-Handed
There are different kinds of rifles and accessories for all kinds of shooters, no matter which hand they is most dominant. Some are exclusive to either hand and some will accommodate either/or. So what’s the difference between them? What are the advantages? Any disadvantages? Let’s answer these questions so you know what sets them apart from each other:
Right-Handed
First, you’ll notice that the ejector port will be pointing towards the right on an AR-15’s upper receiver. This may pose as a safety hazard for left-handed shooters because the magazine casings fling out of the ejector port after it is fired.
You don’t want a piece of metal flying out at full speed hitting you in the face or worse, your eye. Plus, those discarded shells get pretty dang hot when they get ejected so the risk of burns will be an issue.
Left-Handed
The difference in this type is the ejector port will be located on the left side of the upper receiver. Likewise, this will also affect accuracy and performance for those who typically shoot right-handed. It will also pose the same risk of being injured by discarded rounds being ejected from the port.
Some of the parts assembled on the lower receiver of an AR-15 will have ambidextrous accessories like safeties. These can be turned on by pressing the safety button in either direction.
Ambidextrous
Ambidextrous is defined as using either hand. Left or right, it doesn’t even matter. The ambidextrous parts, like the safety, will be much easier to install compared to a safety designed for either handed shooter. However, most ambidextrous accessories will be a larger benefit for left-handed shooters.
This means the main disadvantage would be that right-handed shooters would eschew the idea of using these kinds of accessories because they don’t have the struggles of most left-handed shooters. Therefore, they don’t see the need to use them.
How to Choose a Left-Handed AR-15
Before making a decision on which left-handed AR-15 rifle will be yours, it is important to consider a few factors that will drive you to make the final purchasing decision.
Plus, you’ll need to think about the fact that this is an AR-15 rifle that you’ll probably rely on long-term. So it’s always paramount to choose wisely.
To help you along the process, here are a few things we recommend that you look for before making your choice:
Price
If you’re a first-time buyer or someone who is consistently on a budget, the price will most likely play an important role. As you take a look at the price, you should consider looking at the overall quality of the rifle itself. High quality, but affordable is what you’re looking for. Most will associate a low price tag with low quality. But it takes a bit of research to find the best quality rifle that you can afford.
Building Project or No?
The easiest way to build a left-handed AR-15 rifle is by building it piece by piece. This means getting the parts you need in order to make sure it’s adaptable for left-handed shooters.
This will also mean getting parts and accessories designed for ambidextrous use. Obviously, more left-handed users will take advantage of ambidextrous safeties and upper receivers than right-handed users.
Alternatively, you can also purchase an AR-15 already assembled and ready for action. Either way, you can still use one. The only difference is the amount of money and time that you invest in it.
Design
It is important to pay close attention to the design. Especially when you’re looking for an AR-15 rifle designed specifically for left-handed shooters. Make sure the ejector port is on the other side so it won’t eject rounds quickly and hit your face in the process.
The important thing to note is that you may not find an AR-15 for lefties at your local gun store. So that would mean ordering a custom-made rifle, which may cost more money. You’re better off finding one at a handful of online gun stores. Alternatively, you can purchase a build kit if you’re up for the challenge.
Cautious Considerations Before Buying
In situations like this, there are some additional aspects that you’ll need to consider while you’re in search of a new left-handed AR-15 rifle. These are things to pay attention to since it pertains to the legality of purchasing and owning an AR-15 rifle. Knowing these considerations will save you a lot of time, money, and even legal headaches in the long-term. Here’s what you need to know:
Compliance Laws
In nearly a dozen states, there are gun compliance laws. States like California, Illinois, Maryland, New York, New Jersey, and a few others have recently passed laws regarding AR-15 rifles. However, they will differ from the other in terms of what you can or cannot use for parts or accessories on an AR-15 rifle.
For example, in the state of New York, no AR-style rifle barrel should be less than 16 inches in length. Depending on the state you live in, see if any of the rifles or accessories above are in compliance with your state’s laws.
To err on the side of caution, you should also double check to see which laws exist in your jurisdiction. This way, you won’t face any legal repercussions.
The Other Legal Stuff
Nationwide, you’ll have to be at least 18 years of age to purchase a semi-automatic rifle like an AR. Of course, you must also not be a convicted felon or have had a history of being held for psychiatric reasons. An AR-15 rifle should be used responsibly and for the appropriate applications.
Conclusion
Finding the best left-handed AR-15 rifle can be a challenge. But the correct one is out there for you. Alternatively, you can build one from scratch. Either way, left-handed shooters can rejoice in the fact that all the right parts and accessories are out there to make shooting an AR-15 rifle more enjoyable.
So consider which route is easier for you and make your next trip to the range or the hunting field more enjoyable for you and your fellow left-handed shooters.
