LH Bolt or Semi-Auto .22?

[Hakko]

I'm a cross-dominant shooter (left-eye) and I'm looking to get my first rifle. It'll be for plinking, as we're not allowed to shoot tree-rats in my town.

I've been shooting pistols for a while, but I don't have much experience with long guns. Based on what's available locally, I've pretty much narrowed it down to either a Savage MkII in left-handed configuration or a T-C Classic semi-auto. The TC is more expensive, but not so much more that it's an issue.

I've already looked at other semis, e.g., the 10/22, and of those available under $400, I liked the T-C best. I'd prefer to spend that much on a lefty bolt, but Savage appears to be the only option around, apart from prowling the local gunshows waiting for something to turn up -- and I don't really have time for that. It'd be nice if CZ made a southpaw 452, but that ain't happening.

So, anyone have advice or comments. Am I being silly about not going with a righty bolt? I just don't like the idea of the thing flashing toward my nose with every shot.

 

[AZ Jeff]

How about a Browning .22 semi-auto, the one with bottom ejection?

Norinco also makes a copy of this rifle that is much less costly as well.

 

[Matt Sutton]

A lever or pump action would also be southpaw friendly. I personally like the Marlin 39 and the Winchester 9422.

 

[Hakko]

Lever action might be fun, but somehow a pump doesn't appeal, except in a shottie.

What are good makes/models of a lever action .22 in my budget range?

 

[tc300mag1]

I am Left handed and use a Ruger 10/22 .. either a semi auto or a pump would be a good bet..

One thing about buying a left hand bolt is if you go shooting with anyone else they wont be able to use your rifle very easy. I got with bolt guns for the big boomers but wont pay extra for a bolt gun in a 22.

 

[VictorLouis]

Hakko

If your willing to go into the high-2/low-3 range of the T/C Classic, then perhaps a used Anschutz sporter of some sort may not be out of line. Of course, you'd have to wait it out a bit until you found one on-line.

Savage is really the only bolt in what you could call the 'economy' price range. Anschutz is next, but it is admittedly a big leap up. Mind you, I'm talking about their sporters, and not the Olympic/Biathlon guns.

I've shot all manner of autos with NO troubles left-handed, and I own a few. Do take a look at the Henry Pump before you dismiss the thought entirely. In aimed, controlled fire, I'm about as fast with it as I am with any auto. It is a bit more awkward from a bench, however.

 

[Greg L]

Henry makes an excellent .22 lever.

Greg

 

[Hakko]

Thanks for the input, folks! Please keep it coming.

I'm also looking at the EAA/Izhmash Biathlon Basic. From what I've read over at rimfirecentral, the straight pull bolt is very easy to work lefty. One of my friendly, local gundealers can order one, although he doesn't have it in stock. I'm hoping he'll order one and let me handle it before I put my money down.

Haven't seen any used Anschutz's in my price range, which is a shame, but not unexpected.

 

[CB900F]

Hakko;

Been there & done that. Wound up buying the Savage LHB & I'm a happy camper. I've got a full-on Volquartsen 10/22 done by Tom in his shop in Carroll Iowa. It's superbly accurate, a pain in the butt to clean, & wound up being out of your price range.

After owning it, I too went looking for an affordable .22 LHB. And, like you, came to the conclusion that the Savage was my one choice, since CZ can't be bothered to cater to us.

I've worked on the Savage, and I'm not disappointed that I've had to do the work. After all, the gun is built to a price point, and a rather low one at that. Nothing that's terribly difficult or truly necessary, but relaxing for me & did help the gun achieve what it's capable of.

If you get one & would like to know the details, by all means, PM me.

My daughter is like you, right handed & left master eyed. She has switched to left hand shooting & very much prefers it.

900F

 

[Hakko]

CB900F,

Thanks for you offer. Please check your PMs.

Hakko