The majority of tools, guns, utensils, and other items are designed for right-handed people. For the 12% of the population that are left-handed, this can leave them feeling left out and forced to adapt. This is especially true in the world of firearms. Comfort is an important factor in good shooting form and accuracy.
While southpaws can adapt to right-handed pistols, it is no wonder that left handed pistols would suit them better. Luckily, there are options for anyone who shoots left-handed.
Scroll down to see the best left handed pistols available on the market today!
Comparison of the Best Left-Handed Pistols
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What to Watch For When Buying Left Handed Pistols
There are a few key things to keep an eye on when shopping for a left handed pistol. The good news is that it is really hard to go wrong with any of the options. There are certainly some variations between the options, but quality isn’t something you will really need to worry about.
As long as it comes from a reputable manufacturer, you can count on it operating similarly to any right handed options said manufacturer offers. That being said, the more knowledge you have going in, the better. The tips and information below should help you feel confident as you compare options and ultimately make a buying decision.
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.
What’s Your Function?
There are a few different levels when it comes to left hand functionality in a handgun. The first is a non-ambidextrous design. The majority of these are designed exclusively for right handed shooters. There are some in this level that have all the controls on the left hand side, but these aren’t as common.
The next level of left handed functionality is semi-ambidextrous. This level features one or more primary controls, such as the magazine release, that is either accessible from both sides or is reversible to be used from either side. This type of handgun will be easier for a left handed shooter to use, but won’t be fully tuned to their handedness.
The final level of left handed pistol functionality is fully ambidextrous or fully convertible. This is where southpaw shooters are finally and completely accommodated. A fully ambidextrous pistol features all controls being accessible from both the right and left hand by default from the factory.
Retraining Necessary
If you are a left handed shooter who adapted and learned to shoot with their right hand, you are not alone. With ambidextrous pistols being somewhat uncommon, many shooters had to choose between learning to shoot with their off hand or not learning at all. The choice is an easy one for most lefties. When you do finally have a fully ambidextrous pistol, don’t be frustrated if learning to shoot effectively with it takes some time. If you’ve spent any significant time shooting with a right handed pistol, some retraining will be necessary. Just stay patient with the process.
Perk Roundup
Shooting a right-handed firearm as a leftie presents some uncomfortable and even dangerous side effects. Those things can be dealt with, but shooting an ambidextrous firearm is the preferable solution. Drawing a pistol, avoiding the flying process, and maintaining a comfortable stance and reach are just a few of the perks southpaws with an ambidextrous gun can look forward to.
Review of the Best Left-Handed Pistols
The following is a list of the five best left-handed handguns you can find on the market. As you go through the list, you should make notes of any features and characteristics that stand out as interesting. If you find one that checks off the boxes of personal preferences and needs, you have a pistol fit for you.
Let’s start off this list by unveiling our best overall choice for left-handed pistols:
Best Overall
Glock G19X G5 9MM 4″ Coyote
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What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new users were happy with the pistol for a few good reasons. For one, the accuracy was dead-on with targets ranging from 20 to 40 yards out. Even shooting groups across various types of 9mm ammo were consistently tight at these distances. One user said he was able to use this as a casual target shooting pistol, but intends to use this in concealed carry situations if and when necessary.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Glock 19X is part of the Glock 19 group, which, by the way, is one of the most reliable concealed pistols on the planet. The pistol itself (regardless of which 19 model you use) is trusted by many law enforcement and military personnel in nearly 50 countries. If it’s trusted by almost half of the world, you know it has to be good. The night sights included in the pistol is hands down one of the best features since they are quite visible in low-light settings. This is a major plus if you intend to use it in a self-defense situation.
Who Will Use This Most
If you want superior reliability, then you’re probably going to salivate (well, not literally) over this pistol. This bad boy is guaranteed to have no malfunctions through well over 100, or even 1000 rounds. And it has excellent accuracy and superior firing power to go along with it. At this point, you’d be insane to pass up the opportunity to give this pistol further consideration.
Bottom Line
This Glock G19X G5 9mm pistol is no doubt the best overall choice for left-handed users. And it will be hard to beat when pitted against any challenger. Expect this sucker to stay on as the best overall for quite some time because of its reliability, accurate shooting, and overall awesomeness. It would be really hard to beat a Glock pistol no matter what the intents and purposes are.
Pros
Easy to load
Excellent accuracy and firing power
Lightweight, even when fully loaded
Trigger pull is not too light, nor too heavy
Rear night sight is quite visible in low-light conditions
Cons
None
Runner-up
Heckler & Koch VP9
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What Recent Buyers Report
New users found this pistol to be quite accurate in their initial test shooting session at the range. The shooting groups were quite tight and the effective accuracy went as far as 45 yards. Most of these new users say they were confident in the pistol’s ability to deliver accurate shots if and when they have an opportunity to use this pistol in a self-defense situation. They also added that the inclusion of two magazines made it much more convenient since one didn’t seem like it was enough.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For a pistol that is considered the “budget” option, it functions as though it should be twice the price it goes for. Not only that, it has proven itself as one of the more reliable and accurate pistols for those starting out with concealed carry (and for newbies who are left-handed). Indeed, it’s the kind of pistol that has an ambidextrous design. So it will work for both righties and lefties alike. No matter which is your dominant hand, this pistol will probably serve as your training pistol (and probably the only concealed carry pistol that you’ll need for a long time).
Who Will Use This Most
If you are a beginner in search of a pistol that will be ideal for starting out with concealed carry, you might consider this as a viable option compared to some of the other newbie-friendly pistols that might be cheap in price and not the best in quality. You deserve high quality and performance above all else. Why should you settle for anything less than what this pistol offers?
Bottom Line
The Heckler & Koch VP9 will leave newbie users with a really great first impression by delivering precise, accurate shooting, superior firing power, and a price tag that is just too hard to resist. It ain’t cheap or flimsy in the slightest. But you will put this pistol to the test and wonder why it isn’t as expensive as it could be. Luckily for you, it might be a steal of a deal.
Pros
Accurate and precise shooting
Works great with TruGlo sights
The trigger is easy to pull. No heaviness or sensitivity to report
Provides plenty of shooting for competitive and concealed carry users
Cons
Loading may be a bit difficult at times
Holster options for this pistol are limited
Default sets may not work the best in a low-light setting
Best for the Money
SIG Sauer P320 Compact Handgun
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What Recent Buyers Report
New users had nothing but great things to say about this pistol. Not only was it malfunction-free through well over 100 rounds (or more), it remained consistently accurate regardless of the brand of rounds they have used. One user said he was able to hit various targets from as far out as 30 yards. He added that it also didn’t have a lot of recoil to mitigate, which was a good thing since it gave him so much control over the pistol.
Why it Stands Out to Us
SIG Sauer is a name that is relied on by many law enforcement and government agencies that rely on a sidearm for protection. And it’s also a favorite among civilians, as well. Why did they choose these over the Colt 1911 a couple of decades back? The answer: reliability. And with this SIG Sauer pistol, that is what you’ll get. Since it’s an ambidextrous design, both righties and lefties alike will enjoy putting it to good use at the range.
At the same time, it’s the perfect sidearm to have handy when you want to prepare yourself for any kind of dangerous attackers or prowlers. At its size, it’s got the concealability advantage so you can carry every day and keep it out of plain sight until you absolutely need it.
Who Will Use This Most
If you want a reliable sidearm and are a member of law enforcement (or a civilian) that shoots left-handed, you might find this pistol appealing in a few ways. Indeed, it has the reliability. And yes, it’ has max concealability. Top it off with accurate shooting and the quick ability to draw it out of your holster, and you have a pistol that will not let you down, no matter what.
Bottom Line
If you’re a lefty in search of a pistol that is reliable, concealable, and does some serious damage, you may want to consider the SIG Sauer P320 Compact Handgun as the best possible option. It has the measurables and ability to go the distance. And best of all, it gives left-handed shooters all the stability and control they need to make this pistol a lot more enjoyable.
Pros
The trigger weight is light
Super-durable construction
Excellent accuracy and reliability
Easy to draw out of most holsters
Great concealability. Won’t bulge in your waistband or holster
Cons
None
Beretta PX4 Storm
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What Recent Buyers Report
As expected, a lot of new users were happy with the overall ability of this pistol. Not only was it easy to handle for most left-handed shooters, but it also allowed for excellent stability (thus leading to straightforward, accurate shooting). One user said that he didn’t feel a single bit of recoil while pulling the trigger, thus further confirming he had total control over the pistol. So far, he’s been able to hit his targets from distances ranging from 30 to 40 yards.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Berettas are known for being pretty solid pistols. This one proves that its no exception to the rule. It’s small in size, thus making it super-easy to conceal. And if anything, max concealability is always a plus when you want to keep your pistol out of sight. No one will know you are carrying until you draw it to warn an attacker that you are not one to mess around.
Who Will Use This Most
Among the users who will rely on this most will obviously be the concealed carry users. Whether you are new to the whole thing or have been around for a while and need a new pistol for EDC use, you may want to take a closer look at this pistol. Its American-made durability will certainly be hard to beat compared to cheap, foreign-made pistols. And with top-of-the-line quality, you can expect this to be reliable for many years (or even decades).
Bottom Line
If the Beretta USA PX4 Storm appeals to you with its overall performance, it might be a pistol you’ll enjoy shooting. While you might be inclined to use this in a target shooting setting, it’s a pistol you may consider using if and when you need to defend yourself in a dangerous situation. No matter what, you’ll have a pistol that won’t malfunction through hundreds of rounds, nor will it be a real pain in the butt to pull the trigger.
Pros
Superior reliability
Easy to conceal carry every day
Lightweight, but solid in construction
Sights are easily adjustable for windage and elevation
Best used in concealed carry and target shooting situations
Cons
None
Walther PPQM2 4IN 9MM
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What Recent Buyers Report
According to new users, this pistol was pretty durable in quality. In fact, new users were able to handle the pistol in both good weather and bad in an outdoor setting. The gripping ability was second to none and it provided excellent stability (which of course leads to accurate shooting), one user reported. He also added that it was easy to handle in a “run and gun” situation (which he was able to do during his latest run on a course at his local range).
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you are in search of a pistol that will deliver a good amount of accurate shots at various ranges up to 50 yards, this left-handed pistol makes a strong case as to why it’s one of the best. The shooting groups maintain tightness no matter what kind of 9mm rounds you put in the magazine. High-end, cheap rounds, you simply cannot lose. You can leave a lasting, damaging impact with this pistol if and when you use it in a target shooting or concealed carry situation.
Who Will Use This Most
This pistol is a great choice for multiple applications. You get a pretty good pistol known for not only delivering consistent accuracy, but it’s certainly the pistol you’ll love when it comes to reliability. When the competition is intense or your life is on the line, you want a pistol that won’t malfunction or give you any kind of grief. It’s the kind of pistol that any concealed carry user might want to consider for an easy-to-conceal weapon with a quick draw (even for left-handed shooters).
Bottom Line
If you want accuracy, reliability, and max concealability in one nice, little package, then the Walther PPQM2 is probably going to be the go-to option. Whether you use it for a day at the range or as an EDC carry pistol, it’s no slouch when it comes to performance and quality. It’s so durable that you can expect this puppy to get you through the day for many years to come.
Pros
Excellent firepower
Super-durable quality
Easy to fit in most holsters
Accurate and precise shooting
Great for concealed carry and target shooting
Cons
None
Perks of Getting a New Left-Handed Pistol
If you purchase a left-handed pistol, you will be able to enjoy some of the sweet perks that come along with it. You won’t know what you’re missing if you continue to struggle using a right-handed pistol. Let’s take a look at what you might enjoy if you decide to get a left-handed pistol for yourself:
Better Handling
Yes, if you own a pistol that is compatible with your dominant hand, chances are you’ll have better control and stability. That’s something you won’t get with a right-handed pistol in your left hand. Why settle for poor stability which will give way to poor accuracy? Besides, it’s a lot better to get a firm grip and stable control than to struggle with ill-fitting models.
No More Casings to the Face
One of the most frustrating things that can happen to a lefty using a right-handed pistol is dealing with empty casings being ejected and hitting you in the face. This could lead to burns (since they are casings of freshly shot bullets) and may cause serious injury given the speed of the ejection. With a left-handed pistol, you will avoid disaster.
No Need to Learn How to Shoot With Your Right Hand
There are those out there who say if you are left-handed, you should swallow hard and learn to shoot with your right hand. That’s probably the silliest idea anyone could come up with. Why waste time learning how to shoot with your right hand when you know full well you can utilize a pistol designed for left-handed shooters?
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Left-Handed Pistol?
It’s better to be well-informed about a purchase than to choose one at random. This is the case when looking for a left-handed pistol. If you want something that will be worth the investment for someone like yourself, here are some things you need to know:
Ambidextrous is Usually Better
While there aren’t really a whole lot of pistols made strictly for left-handed users, your next best bet is the ambidextrous design. Not only are they beneficial for lefties, but right-handed shooters will use them, as well (assuming they are happy with the overall functionality). And they come with little recoil right out of the box.
Find a Left-Hand Oriented Holster
Since most of these pistols are intended for concealed carry, obviously that means finding a holster. If you are a left-handed shooter, find a holster designed for a left-handed orientation. This way, you can attach it to the right side of your body while being able to cross-draw using your dominant hand.
Don’t Worry About Learning How to Shoot Right-Handed
We might have said it once and we’ll say it again: don’t bother learning how to shoot with your right hand. If we advocated that, it would be pointless to review these left-handed pistols. Learning to shoot with your non-dominant hand takes time, frustration, and step-by-step learning in order to get the hang of it. You’re better off getting one of these five pistols listed above.
Conclusion
The best left-handed pistol is out there. It’s important to consider purchasing one so you can easily use it in any application. Whether for target practice or self-defense, you deserve a pistol that will give you better control, better accuracy, and most importantly, more overall enjoyment. No left-handed shooter should ever be relegated to shooting right-handed (or having to use a right-handed pistol).
