Best Left-Handed ARs: Uppers, BCGs, Lowers, Controls, Complete Rifles & More

Quick Answer

Left-handed ARs eliminate brass and gas hitting your face when shooting as a southpaw. You can build a custom rifle using specialized uppers, ambidextrous lowers, and left-handed BCGs, or purchase complete left-handed rifles from manufacturers like Stag Arms. Both options give lefties the comfort and function right-handed shooters take for granted. Dedicated LH builds require a left-hand upper and LH BCG; barrels and extensions are standard (many readers assume the barrel must be mirrored; it doesn’t).

Key Takeaways

• Dedicated left-hand uppers eliminate hot brass hitting your face and arm
• Ambidextrous controls benefit both left and right-handed users
• Stag Arms leads the market in left-handed rifle options
• Upgrading BCGs, safeties, and charging handles costs less than full rifles
• Complete rifles offer turnkey solutions; custom builds provide personalization

Ever caught hot brass down your shirt or taken gas to the face when shooting an AR-15? For us lefties, these aren't occasional mishaps – they're constant companions when using standard right-handed firearms. The struggle has been real, but thankfully, manufacturers have finally recognized our needs. 

Today's left-handed ARs and ambidextrous components deliver the comfort and usability that southpaws have waited decades to experience.

Why Left-Handed ARs Matter

If you're part of the approximately 10% of the population that's left-handed, you've probably noticed firearms rarely cater to your needs. Standard AR-15s eject spent brass to the right – directly into a left-handed shooter's face, neck, or arm. The gas and debris that blow back from the ejection port? That goes straight toward your eyes and nose.

But the problems don't stop at ejection. Traditional AR controls force lefties to perform awkward hand gymnastics to manipulate the safety, magazine release, and charging handle. These ergonomic challenges don't just create discomfort – they slow you down and potentially compromise safety.

Thankfully, the firearm industry appears to be increasingly accommodating to the needs of this once "left-out" demographic. As proof, more companies are developing southpaw-friendly models with left-side ejection and ambidextrous controls.

How We Selected the Best Left-Handed ARs & Parts

Our selections come from direct input from left-handed members of the ProArmory team and their extended network of southpaw shooters. We focused on:

• Ejection pattern and consistency
• Control layout and ergonomics
• Quality of materials and construction
• Value for money at various price points
• Feedback from actual users

We didn't just accept marketing claims at face value – we verified specs, researched user experiences, and consulted with experts who have extensive experience with these products.

Left-side controls change your cheek weld and head position — if you switch to a magnified optic or LPVO, see our AR optics guide for co-witness, eye relief, and mounting advice so your ambi safety and BCG manipulations don’t block your sight picture: Top AR-15 Optics for Every Shooter.

Complete Left-Handed AR Rifles

Stag 15 Retro LH CHPHS

The Stag 15 Retro LH CHPHS brings that classic M16 aesthetic to the left-handed world. It's a 20-inch barreled beauty with the iconic carry handle upper and A2-style components that evoke nostalgia for military veterans.

Beyond just looking the part, this rifle delivers exceptional performance with its left-hand ejection system and ergonomics designed specifically for southpaw shooters. The chrome-lined barrel and properly staked gas key ensure long-term function, even with heavy use. The rifle ships with a mil-spec single-stage trigger that breaks cleanly. Dedicated left-hand builds require a left-hand upper and a left-hand BCG; barrels and extensions are standard. 

Price:$1,349

Features

• 20" chrome-lined barrel
• A2-style fixed stock and grip
• Carry handle upper receiver
• Left-side ejection port

Pros

• Authentic retro styling
• Smooth-shooting 20" configuration
• High-quality construction

Cons

• Higher price point
• Basic mil-spec trigger
• Heavier than carbine options

Faxon Firearms ARAK-21

The ARAK-21 breaks away from the usual AR design. Instead of being just another AR-15 copy, it mixes features from both the AR and the AK. The result feels fresh and gives left-handed shooters a setup that finally makes sense.

What really makes the ARAK-21 stand out is its smart ejection system. You can configure ejection left or right by re-orienting the bolt carrier assembly (done during user disassembly); it is not an instantaneous "flip-a-switch" change and does require attention to parts orientation. The long-stroke piston keeps it running cleaner than gas systems, and the barrel pops out fast so you can change calibers in minutes. Put this upper on your go-to AR lower, and you’ve got something that feels different and fun every time you shoot.

Note: The ARAK-21 is primarily offered as an upper that fits standard mil-spec AR-15 lowers (complete builds are available from some sellers, but the headline product is the upper). If you list it under “Complete Left-Handed AR Rifles,” include that it “Sold primarily as a complete upper; mates to any mil-spec AR-15 lower.”

Price:$1,899

Features

• Ambidextrous ejection system
• Long-stroke piston operation
• Quick-swap barrel system (5.56/.300 BLK)
• Compatible with standard AR-15 lowers
• Non-reciprocating, ambidextrous charging handle.

Pros

• Fully ambidextrous design
• Runs cleaner than direct impingement
• Multi-caliber capability
• Non-reciprocating ambidextrous charging handle improves user comfort and safety.

Cons

• Significantly more expensive
• Heavier than standard AR uppers
• Limited aftermarket support
• Switching ejection direction requires user disassembly and correct re-orientation of bolt carrier parts (not instant).

Stag 15 Tactical 16-inch LH Rifle

The Stag 15 Tactical hits a sweet spot for left-handed AR options. It’s priced fairly and built with care. This 16-inch carbine comes ready to roll with Magpul furniture and a free-floating M-LOK handguard. The setup keeps weight balanced and adds handy functions.

Stag has long been the name people trust for left-handed builds. And this model shows why. The finish is clean, the gas key is staked the right way, and the rifle runs steady. The mid-length gas system makes the recoil smoother than carbine-length versions. That means more comfort and less bite during long range days.

Price:Commonly street-priced under $1,000 depending on retailer and configuration. 

Features

• 16" barrel with mid-length gas system
• Free-floating M-LOK handguard
• Magpul MOE furniture
• Left-side ejection

Pros

• Great value for a complete rifle
• Comfortable Magpul furniture
• Smooth-cycling mid-length gas

Cons

• Standard controls (not fully ambidextrous)
• Basic trigger
• Often back-ordered due to demand

Best Ambidextrous AR-15 Lowers

Seekins Precision SP223 Gen 2 Billet Ambi Lower

The SP223 grabs attention right away with its sharp look. It’s cut from a single block of 7075-T6 aluminum, giving it strength and style. The bold lines aren’t just for show—they add small touches that make it easier to handle, especially for left-handed users.

And here’s the part that stands out. You get an ambidextrous bolt release. Left-handed shooters can lock and drop the bolt with their main hand instead of reaching awkwardly. That’s a big deal in real use.

The winter trigger guard is oversized, which means gloves fit without trouble. The flared magwell helps reloads feel faster and smoother—no fumbling at the edge. And tucked inside is a tension screw that keeps the upper and lower snug together, cutting out the annoying rattle you sometimes get.

Works with standard ambidextrous magazine releases and safeties; actual compatibility may vary slightly by retailer and specific configuration.

Price:$232

Features

• 7075-T6 billet aluminum construction
• Ambidextrous bolt release
• Enlarged winter trigger guard
• Tensioning screw for upper fit

Pros

• Eye-catching design
• Solid build quality
• Practical ergonomic improvements

Cons

• Billet (not forged) construction
• Requires installation of ambi parts
• Slightly heavier than forged lowers

Rainier Arms Ultramatch Billet Ambi Lower & Upper Set

For those seeking a matched set with premium aesthetics, the Rainier Arms Ultramatch delivers. This billet upper and lower combination provides perfect fit between components and a distinctive look that stands out at the range.

The lower accepts any ambidextrous fire control parts you choose, including standard and short-throw safeties. Its flared magwell speeds up magazine changes, and the integral trigger guard eliminates a potential weak point. The tensioning screw ensures zero play between receivers, translating to better accuracy potential.

Price:$434

Features

• Matched upper and lower set
• 7075 aluminum billet construction
• Flared magwell for faster reloads
• Integral trigger guard

Pros

• Perfect fit between components
• Sharp, clean machining
• Distinctive appearance

Cons

• Higher price point
• Requires separate ambi components
• Heavier than forged receivers

Lewis Machine and Tool MARS-L Lower Receiver

The LMT MARS-L represents battle-proven technology in an ambidextrous package. This lower gained fame as the choice of the New Zealand Army, demonstrating its capability in professional military applications. For left-handed users, it offers true ambidextrous operation without compromises.

What sets the MARS-L apart is its fully integrated ambidextrous controls machined directly into the lower. The magazine release and bolt catch/release functions mirror each other on both sides of the receiver, allowing identical manual of arms regardless of hand dominance. This design avoids the potential weaknesses of add-on ambi parts.

Price:$342

Features

• Fully ambidextrous bolt catch and magazine release
• Military-grade 7075-T6 aluminum
• Available stripped or complete
• Flared magwell design

Pros

• Battle-proven design
• True ambidextrous functionality
• Exceptional build quality

Cons

• Premium price point
• Often limited availability
• Heavier than standard lowers

Radian Weapons A-DAC 15 Ambi Lower

Radian has built a reputation for innovation, and their A-DAC lower brings those advancements to left-handed shooters. The lower features their Talon ambidextrous safety selector and an intuitive ambidextrous design that feels natural regardless of hand dominance.

The A-DAC (Ambidextrous Dual Action Catch) system allows bolt manipulation from either side, and the machining quality is top-notch. The A-DAC system lets you lock the bolt to the rear by holding the mag release while retracting the charging handle, then drop the bolt via the right-side bolt release. For lefties building a custom rifle, this lower provides premium features without the highest-tier price of some competitors.

Price:$514

Features

• 7075-T6 billet construction
• Talon ambidextrous safety system
• Left-side magazine release
• Right-side bolt release

Pros

• Innovative A-DAC system
• Includes Talon safety
• Exceptional machining quality

Cons

• Billet rather than forged
• Higher price than standard lowers
• May have compatibility issues with some aftermarket parts

Top Left-Handed Uppers

Stag Arms 3-Gun Elite Upper Receiver LH

Built for competition, but just as fun for casual range days, the Stag 3-Gun Elite upper gives left-handed shooters a solid option without draining the wallet. Ships as a barreled upper (no BCG or charging handle).The 18-inch stainless barrel hits a nice balance between speed and control.

The VG6 Gamma muzzle device cuts recoil and keeps the barrel from climbing. That means faster follow-up shots and smoother shooting. The slim free-floating M-LOK handguard adds spots for gear but keeps weight down.

And for lefties who want to upgrade a rifle or start a new build, this upper makes a lot of sense. It packs strong features, feels good to shoot, and offers clear value for the price.

Price:$649

Features

• 18" 416R stainless steel barrel
• VG6 Gamma muzzle device
• Free-floating M-LOK handguard
• Left-side ejection port

Pros

• Competition-grade components
• Excellent accuracy potential
• Effective muzzle device included

Cons

• Does not include BCG
• No charging handle included
• Heavier than carbine-length uppers

CMT UPUR-1LH Upper Receiver

The Cross Machine Tool UPUR-1LH takes a simple approach for left-handed use. It’s a stripped upper that gives you a strong base for a custom build. No extra bells. No wasted features. Just clean machining and solid function.

This is a stripped upper with the forward-assist boss and ejection-port cover geometry machined in — forward assist and dust cover parts are not installed and must be added by the user (standard parts fit).

It’s cut from a single block of aluminum. That keeps the piece strong and precise. The fit feels snug with most lowers, so you don’t deal with wobble or sloppy gaps. The ejection port sits on the left side—sized right and placed right. That means brass flies clear every time. No more hot casings bouncing back in your face.

Price:$189

Features

• Billet 7075-T6 aluminum construction
• M4 feed ramps
• Left-side ejection port
• Standard mil-spec dimensions

Pros

• Affordable entry point for left-handed builds
• Excellent machining quality
• Compatible with standard components

Cons

• Stripped (no forward assist or dust cover)
• Requires additional components to complete
• Limited aesthetic options

Best Bolt Carrier Groups for Lefties

Black Rain Ordnance BRO-BCG

Black Rain Ordnance brings premium features to left-handed shooters with their BRO-BCG. The nickel-boron coating provides exceptional lubricity and cleaning ease, reducing maintenance time and extending service life under heavy use.

This BCG is designed specifically for left-hand ejection uppers, with proper orientation of the extractor and ejector to ensure reliable function. The staked gas key and properly headspaced bolt provide peace of mind for those building rifles for defensive or competitive use.

Features

• Nickel-boron coating
• Properly staked gas key
• Designed for left-ejection uppers
• Drop-in ready

Pros

• Easy to clean surface
• Smooth cycling
• Exceptional finish quality

Cons

• Premium price point
• Coating makes it more expensive
• Limited availability at times

Toolcraft Left-Handed BCG

Toolcraft has been making bolt carrier groups for years, and they’ve built a solid name doing it. Their left-handed BCG keeps that same level of trust. The black nitride finish cuts down friction and helps fight off rust — the black nitride finish keeps cost down compared with higher-end coatings.

This one comes with proper staking on the gas key and a durable extractor (extractor steel varies by batch — commonly 4140/4340 or Carpenter options, not universally D2; consult the SKU spec sheet for exact material). The bolt is MPI-inspected (magnetic particle inspection) for crack detection. Drop it into any left-handed upper and you’re set. It’s built to military specs but still lands at a fair price—great for builders who want solid parts without draining their wallet.

Price:$129 

Features

• Black nitride finish
• Properly staked gas key
• Hardened D2 steel extractor
• MPI (Magnetic Particle Inspected) bolt

Pros

• Affordable quality
• Trusted OEM manufacturer
• Durable finish

Cons

• Not chrome-lined
• Basic finish compared to premium options
• Occasional stock limitations

Your chosen BCG, barrel length, and magazine choices affect ballistic performance and optimal engagement ranges — see our breakdown of AR effective ranges to align component choices with how you plan to shoot: Range of AR-15.

Ambidextrous Charging Handles

Radian Raptor Charging Handle

The Radian Raptor set the bar for ambidextrous charging handles. It’s still one of the top picks for left-handed shooters today. The twin-latch design makes it easy to pull from either side of the rifle. No more awkward reach-under moves with the standard style.

It’s cut from 7075 aluminum and comes in a few versions like standard, LT, and SD. The Raptor feels solid in hand but also runs smooth every time you use it. The latches are big enough to grab even with gloves. And the build is tough—you don’t get flex or binding when things get rough.

Price:$71.20

Features

• Twin ambidextrous latches
• 7075 aluminum construction
• Multiple versions available
• Smooth operation

Pros

• Industry-leading design
• Excellent grip surface
• Easy one-handed operation

Cons

• Higher price point
• Many competitors now available
• Some models add weight

BCM Gunfighter Ambi Charging Handle

Bravo Company Manufacturing brings their combat-focused approach to the Gunfighter charging handle, creating a robust option that works equally well for right and left-handed shooters. The design focuses on preventing gas leakage to the face – a common issue with suppressed rifles that particularly affects lefties.

The Gunfighter features different latch size options to match your preference and use case. The machining quality is excellent, with smooth edges that won't snag on gear. For left-handed shooters seeking a battle-proven charging handle at a reasonable price, the BCM Gunfighter delivers outstanding value 

Price:$56

Features

• Multiple latch size options
• Gas-defeating design
• 7075-T6 aluminum body
• Hardcoat anodized finish

Pros

• Excellent gas mitigation
• Tough construction
• Reasonable price

Cons

• Heavier than some competitors
• Limited finish options
• Less refined aesthetics

Ambidextrous Safeties

Battle Arms BAD-ASS Safety Selector

The Battle Arms Development Ambidextrous Safety Selector (BAD-ASS) has earned its cheeky acronym through outstanding performance and value. Available in both 90° standard throw and 60° short throw configurations, it gives lefties the same positive control that right-handed shooters take for granted.

Installation requires no special tools or skills and so it makes it an easy upgrade for any AR owner. The selector levers come in different styles and lengths to match your preference and hand size. For southpaws tired of awkwardly reaching across their rifle to manipulate the safety, the BAD-ASS offers immediate improvement at a reasonable price.

Price:$39

Features

• Available in 90° and 60° throw options
• Multiple lever styles and lengths
• Compatible with standard AR lowers
• No special trigger required for short throw

Pros

• Affordable quality
• Easy DIY installation
• Customizable configuration

Cons

• Basic styling
• Some models add weight
• Crowded market segment

Seekins Precision Ambi Safety

For those who want their safety selector to match their rifle's aesthetic, the Seekins Precision Ambidextrous Safety offers multiple anodized color options beyond basic black. The quality machining and smooth operation make it a pleasure to use for left and right-handed shooters alike.

The design provides positive engagement with clear tactile and audible feedback when switching between safe and fire positions. For left-handed shooters building a custom rifle with a cohesive color scheme, the Seekins safety allows function and form to coexist beautifully.

Price:$52 

Features

• Multiple anodized color options
• 7075-T6 aluminum construction
• 90° throw design
• Customizable lever lengths

Pros

• Attractive finishes
• Excellent tactile feedback
• High-quality construction

Cons

• Higher price than some competitors
• Limited to 90° throw
• Colors may not perfectly match other components

Ambidextrous Mag & Bolt Releases

Forward Controls Extended Serrated Ambi Mag Release

Forward Controls Design brings thoughtful engineering to their Extended Serrated Ambidextrous Magazine Release. The serrated surface provides secure finger purchase even with gloves or wet hands – a crucial feature when you need to reload quickly.

The extended button gives left-handed shooters easier access without compromising security against accidental magazine drops. The machining quality is exceptional, with smooth edges that won't snag or scratch hands during manipulations.

Price:$66

Features

• Serrated surface for positive grip
• Extended button for easier access
• Ambidextrous operation
• Precision machined construction

Pros

• Excellent texture and grip
• High-quality materials
• Thoughtful design details

Cons

• Premium price point
• Installation requires attention to detail
• May interfere with some trigger guards

Troy Ambidextrous Mag & Bolt Release

Troy Industries brings decades of experience to their ambidextrous controls, creating a magazine release and bolt catch system that works intuitively for left-handed shooters. The billet tool steel construction ensures durability under hard use, and the design maintains the familiar manual of arms that AR users expect.

Troy offers ambi controls as separate parts—the Ambi Mag Release (AMB) and Ambi Bolt Release (ABR). Both provide mirrored functions for lefties and install with basic tools. The magazine release offers identical function from either side of the receiver, and the bolt catch allows left-handed users to lock and release the bolt without removing their hand from the fire control area. 

For southpaws seeking improved ergonomics without breaking the bank, Troy's offerings provide excellent value. Note that some billet receivers can have fitment quirks, so check compatibility and be prepared to fit or adjust if necessary.

Price: $58

Features

• Billet tool steel construction
• Ambidextrous magazine release
• Mirror-image controls on both sides
• Drop-in installation

Pros

• Reasonable price point
• Robust construction
• Natural ergonomics

Cons

• Slightly heavier than standard controls
• Basic black finish only
• May not fit some billet lowers

Build vs. Buy a Left-Handed AR

Deciding to build or buy a left-handed AR comes down to money, skill, and what you want. Building lets you pick every part to match your taste. You can even save cash if you catch sales or already own some parts. Plus, the process shows you how the rifle works and how to take care of it.

Buying one ready-made is easier. You get a warranty and peace of mind. For first-time AR owners, going with a factory rifle means no headaches with parts not fitting. It also works right from the start. Brands like Stag Arms have been making left-hand rifles for years, so their models are proven and polished.

There’s also a middle path. You can buy a left-handed upper and pair it with an ambidextrous lower. That way, you still get ejection on the left side—without having to build everything from scratch.

Final Thoughts

Left-hand ARs have changed a lot. Gone are the days when lefties had to eat brass in the face or fumble with controls that felt backwards. Now you can choose from simple ambidextrous upgrades to rifles built fully for the left side.

Build one from parts. Or buy a complete rifle from Stag, Faxon, or another maker. Either way, left-hand shooters don’t have to compromise anymore. They can enjoy the same comfort and fit that right-hand shooters have had all along. 

And here’s a nice bonus—many ambidextrous parts help everyone. They make rifles easier to run no matter which hand you use. That’s progress worth smiling about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a left-handed AR if I'm left-handed?

Not a must. But it makes shooting much easier. Left-hand ARs keep hot brass off your face and stop gas from blowing into your eyes. Some lefties get used to right-hand rifles. But a true left-hand upper removes those problems completely.

Are left-handed ARs more expensive than standard ARs?

Yes, a little. Complete rifles usually cost about \$50–200 more. Left-hand uppers and BCGs also carry a small extra price. Ambidextrous parts like safeties and charging handles cost about the same for both hands.

Can I use regular AR-15 parts in a left-handed build?

Most of them, yes. Triggers, buffer tubes, stocks, handguards, and barrels all swap fine. The only special pieces are the upper, the BCG, and sometimes the charging handle. Ambidextrous controls work in both setups.

Can I convert my existing AR to left-handed?

Yes. But it’s usually cheaper to build fresh. To convert, you’d need a left-hand upper, a left-hand BCG, and maybe some ambidextrous controls. The lower can stay the same if you add ambi parts.

What's the difference between "ambidextrous" and "left-handed" AR parts?

Left-hand parts are mirrors of the right side—like the ejection port. Ambidextrous parts work from both sides without changing the base design. Many lefties go with a left-hand upper and ambidextrous controls for the best setup.

About the Author

This article was written by the ProArmory team. We based it on current research and trusted sources like the Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, Shooting Illustrated, and American Rifleman. We also looked at official defense publications and respected firearm experts.

Disclaimer: This article is for education only. Always follow federal, state, and local firearm laws. Talk to a qualified gunsmith before changing anything on your rifle. ProArmory is not responsible for damage, injury, or legal problems that come from using this info.