Understanding the Need for a Left Handed Upper Parts Kit
For many right-handed shooters, the standard AR-15 is a natural fit. The design, from the ejection port to the charging handle, is geared towards right-handed operation. When a left-handed shooter attempts to use a right-handed AR-15, they encounter several potential issues. The most significant is the close proximity of the ejection port to the face. This can result in hot brass being ejected directly into their face, causing discomfort, and even potentially disrupting their focus on the target. Furthermore, the charging handle is positioned on the right side of the receiver. This necessitates an awkward reach across the body, disrupting the shooter’s natural grip and aiming alignment. The bolt release often requires the shooter to remove their hand from the firing grip, further slowing down the reloading process.
A dedicated **left handed upper parts kit** solves these problems by re-orienting the ejection port, the bolt carrier group, and often includes ambidextrous or left-hand-friendly controls. This allows left-handed shooters to operate the rifle with ease, comfort, and increased efficiency. The benefits of a **left handed AR-15** are significant.
By using the correct parts, you can improve ergonomics. This also improves safety, removing the risk of hot brass burns. You’ll find you have faster follow-up shots and less fatigue during extended shooting sessions. This translates to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience.
Components of a Left Handed Upper Parts Kit
The **left handed upper parts kit** is more than just a collection of parts; it’s a carefully selected arrangement to ensure a firearm works optimally for left handed shooters. Understanding each component and its role is key to building or purchasing a well-functioning rifle.
The Upper Receiver
At the heart of any AR-15 is the upper receiver. This crucial part houses the bolt carrier group, barrel, and handguard. The difference between a standard upper and a left-handed upper receiver is primarily the orientation of the ejection port. A standard AR-15 ejects spent casings to the right. A **left handed upper receiver** ejects spent casings to the left.
This seemingly small change makes a huge difference. It prevents hot brass from flying into the shooter’s face, and allows a left-handed shooter to use the firearm comfortably and confidently. When choosing an upper receiver, material quality is paramount. Forged aluminum is a common choice for its strength and durability. Ensure the upper receiver is properly heat-treated and has a quality finish to resist wear and corrosion. Many **left handed upper parts kit** manufacturers will offer various upper receiver configurations, so consider what features you desire in your build.
The Bolt Carrier Group
The Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) is the workhorse of the AR-15, responsible for cycling the action, extracting spent casings, and chambering new rounds. The BCG consists of the bolt, carrier, firing pin, and other critical components. A standard right-handed AR-15 BCG may not work optimally in a **left handed upper receiver**. However, the key here is the orientation of the extractor. A standard BCG, in a standard upper, is set to eject brass to the right.
Selecting a BCG designed for left-handed operation ensures proper extraction and ejection of spent casings to the left, working with the left-handed upper receiver. This is particularly important for preventing malfunctions. Many high-quality manufacturers produce BCGs specifically designed for left-handed use, often with enhanced coatings for increased reliability and easier cleaning. Look for BCGs that are properly heat-treated and have passed rigorous testing. The BCG is, arguably, the single most important part in your **left handed upper parts kit**
The Charging Handle
The charging handle is the component used to manually cycle the action, cocking the hammer and preparing the rifle for the first shot. While the standard charging handle on an AR-15 is located on the right side, which is often inconvenient for a left-handed shooter, there are several excellent options available that make operation easier and more efficient.
Ambidextrous charging handles are an excellent choice. These charging handles have levers on both sides of the receiver, allowing the shooter to charge the rifle from either side. This eliminates the need to reach across the body. This allows left-handed shooters to quickly and easily manipulate the charging handle with their non-dominant hand.
Extended charging handles, which feature larger latches, are also a popular choice. They offer a more prominent surface area for easier manipulation, even with gloved hands or in cold weather. The specific charging handle is an important part of the **left handed upper parts kit** because it provides a simple, yet effective, ergonomic enhancement.
Ejection Port Cover
The ejection port cover is a seemingly small, yet important, detail in your **left handed upper parts kit**. This piece is designed to keep dirt, debris, and moisture out of your upper receiver. In a left-handed build, the ejection port is located on the left side, opposite that of a right-handed build. This requires a specific cover to fit and function properly.
Make sure that the cover is securely mounted and easy to open and close. This ensures your rifle stays clean and functions reliably. The ejection port cover, though simple, is a key part of keeping your rifle in great working order.
Forward Assist
The forward assist, a button located on the upper receiver, is used to ensure the bolt is fully seated in the chamber. It is primarily a feature to override any small obstructions or resistance that might prevent the bolt from fully locking.
While some shooters may choose to omit the forward assist, it can be a valuable feature in certain situations. The position of the forward assist typically remains on the right side of the upper receiver, regardless of the ejection port orientation. Therefore, the forward assist remains a standard part of a **left handed upper parts kit**. It’s a feature many people simply don’t use, but is there for good measure.
Barrel
The barrel is a critical part of the upper receiver. It’s the tube that guides the bullet and determines both the caliber and accuracy of your rifle. Several barrel factors impact your build. Barrel length is a significant factor. Consider the intended use of your rifle. A shorter barrel is more maneuverable, while a longer barrel will give better ballistics. The barrel twist rate is also very important. The twist rate dictates the rate at which the bullet spins as it travels down the barrel. The correct twist rate for your chosen ammunition is crucial for accuracy.
When choosing your barrel, quality and materials play a crucial role. Barrels should be made from high-quality steel, and precision-machined. The proper barrel is a vital component in any **left handed upper parts kit**
Considerations When Choosing a Left Handed Upper Parts Kit
When selecting a **left handed upper parts kit**, you need to be certain that you select the right parts. Several factors should influence your decision.
Quality and Reliability
The most important consideration when choosing any AR-15 part is the quality and reliability. You should always select high-quality components made from durable materials. This ensures the long-term reliability and function of your rifle.
Do your research and choose parts from reputable manufacturers with a proven track record. This will give you a much higher chance of success. Read reviews from other shooters, and find out what experiences others have had with the parts you are considering. It is usually worth it to spend a bit more for quality. This will help ensure that your rifle is dependable.
Compatibility
Ensure all the components of your **left handed upper parts kit** are compatible with each other and with your existing lower receiver. The AR-15 platform is generally standardized, but some variations exist. Paying close attention to the specifications of each part before purchase will help prevent any issues during assembly.
Familiarize yourself with terms like “Mil-Spec,” which indicates that a part adheres to military specifications. This can often indicate a high level of compatibility. Checking online forums and resources can also help you understand compatibility considerations.
Budget
The cost of a **left handed upper parts kit** can vary widely. It depends on the quality of the components, and the features you choose. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping. This can help you to narrow your options and prevent overspending.
You can often find kits in different price ranges. Don’t always go for the cheapest option. Consider the long-term value and reliability of the components. Prioritize the most critical components, such as the upper receiver, BCG, and barrel. Investing in quality in these areas will have a major impact on the performance and reliability of your rifle.
Intended Use
The intended use of your rifle will affect your component choices. If you are building a rifle for self-defense, you may want to prioritize reliability and durability. A faster and easier to manipulate charging handle may be beneficial. You might choose a BCG with a more advanced coating. If you are building a rifle for target shooting, accuracy becomes the primary consideration. Your choice of barrel, and optics will change the build.
The environment you will be shooting in should also be considered. This will influence your choice of handguard. Understanding your intended use will make it easier to choose the most appropriate components for your needs.
Building or Buying a Left Handed Upper
Once you’ve selected the components for your **left handed upper parts kit**, you will need to decide how to assemble the upper receiver. There are two main options.
DIY Build
Building your own upper receiver allows you to customize your rifle to your exact specifications. It can also be more cost-effective, especially if you are building on a budget. The process involves assembling the various components, typically using specialized tools.
You’ll need an armorer’s wrench to tighten the barrel nut, a vise, and possibly a reaction rod. Before you start, make sure you have a good understanding of AR-15 assembly. The internet offers many tutorials and videos. It will guide you through each step of the process.
Buying a Pre-Assembled Upper
If you lack the time or expertise, or you just want a hassle-free option, you can purchase a pre-assembled upper receiver. These uppers are assembled by manufacturers or gunsmiths, eliminating the need for you to build it yourself. This offers a convenient solution.
Pre-assembled uppers are typically tested to ensure proper function and are available in various configurations. When choosing a pre-assembled upper, research the manufacturer to ensure they have a solid reputation for quality and reliability.
Maintenance and Care
Once your **left handed upper parts kit** is complete, proper maintenance is essential for ensuring reliable function and a long lifespan. Regular cleaning and inspection are important parts of proper care.
Cleaning
Cleaning your AR-15 upper receiver will keep it running reliably and ensure all the parts move correctly. After each shooting session, or at regular intervals, disassemble your upper receiver and clean all components. Use a quality gun cleaning solvent, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay close attention to the bolt carrier group, barrel, and chamber. Thorough cleaning will remove powder residue, carbon buildup, and any other debris that could cause malfunctions.
Inspection
Regularly inspect your AR-15 upper receiver for wear and tear. Check the bolt carrier group for cracks, and ensure that the firing pin moves freely. Inspect the barrel for any signs of damage or corrosion. Check the charging handle and other controls for proper function. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain safety.
Conclusion
Building or buying a **left handed upper parts kit** will allow you to tailor your AR-15 to your specific needs as a left-handed shooter. By taking the time to understand the components, considering the factors described above, and choosing the right parts, you can build an AR-15 that offers improved comfort, safety, and performance. Remember, the AR-15 is a versatile platform. With the correct parts, it can provide an enjoyable and effective experience for all shooters.
Consider your requirements, and build or purchase the perfect rifle. Now you have the knowledge and information needed to choose the right **left handed upper parts kit**, and start enjoying the benefits of a customized AR-15.
