Which .308 platform for Lefty

[SemperFi83]

I posted this over at TFL as well, so if you saw it there, you can ignore...

Which .308 platform (FAL, AR, M1A, HK) would be best suited to a lefty, or conversely, which platform should I definitely stay away from as a lefty?

Any input/experience shared would be appreciated!

 

[natedog]

For a lefty, the only one I'd definetly stay away from is the G-3/Cetme. The charging handles is on the left side, up near the muzzle, and is quite difficult to pull even if you're right handed- it would only be compounded by having to reach across the rifle. The M1A has ambidextrious magazine release, a charging handle on the right side, and ambi safety, so it'd be a good choice for a lefty- Twoblink's got one, and it seems to work great for him. The BAR-10 has an ambi charging handle, mag release, and bolt release, and ambi safeties are available in the aftermarket. The FAL has a left side charging handle, but ambi bolt and magazine controls, so it wouldn't be that big of a deal, and I think ambi safeties are available. The 7.62 NATO AKs wouldn't be a bad choice; right side charging handle, ambi mag release, and ok safety (for a lefty).

 

[NMshooter]

If you get a G-3 type rifle (including CETME) get a brass deflector. I have been hit in the head shooting one right handed, left handed would be worse.

Been a while since I had a FAL, but try before you buy if possible. I don't remember any issues with brass but eating brass is no fun. Charging handle and selector may be awkward.

M1A is probably easier for left hand use than right hand use. No worries with ejected brass.

AR-10 is like AR-15 in placement of controls and general shootability. No worries with brass either.

Biggest thing about shooting rifles left handed is watching ejected brass fly in front on my face. Gets my attention. Try them all out if you get the chance.

And whatever you pick, good luck and have fun!