Bergara does manufacture left handed rifles, though their availability and model selection are more limited compared to right handed versions. Left handed shooters can find specific Bergara models designed or adapted for left handed use, catering to the unique ergonomic and functional needs of southpaw marksmen.
Background on Bergara Rifles
Bergara Rifles is a Spanish firearms manufacturer known for producing high-quality bolt-action rifles with precision barrels. Established in the early 2000s, Bergara quickly gained a reputation for delivering excellent accuracy and craftsmanship at competitive prices. Their product lineup includes hunting rifles, tactical rifles, and long-range precision models favored by hunters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement alike.
While Bergara primarily focuses on right handed rifles, as is common in the firearms industry, they do acknowledge the demand for left handed shooters by offering certain models or custom options to accommodate them.
How Left Handed Rifles Differ from Right Handed Rifles
Left handed rifles are not simply mirror images of right handed rifles; they require specific design changes to ensure safe and comfortable operation for left handed shooters. Key differences include:
- Bolt handle placement: On left handed rifles, the bolt handle is on the left side, allowing the shooter to cycle the action with their left hand while maintaining a shooting position.
- Safety and controls orientation: Safety levers, magazine releases, and other controls may be reversed or repositioned to be easily accessible with the left hand.
- Stock design: The stock’s cheek piece and ergonomics may be shaped for left handed shooters to provide proper eye alignment and comfort.
- Extractor and ejection port: These are reversed to eject spent cartridges away from the shooter’s face on the left side.
Because of these differences, left handed rifles often require dedicated manufacturing or modification rather than simply switching the bolt handle side.
Bergara’s Left Handed Rifle Offerings
Bergara offers a range of rifles across several series, including the B-14, B-14 HMR, B-14 Hunter, and Premier series. Their left handed options are generally limited to certain popular models rather than the full catalog. For example:
- Bergara B-14 Hunter Left Handed: Available in some configurations, this model is designed for hunters who prefer a left handed rifle, featuring a left side bolt handle and compatible stock design.
- Bergara B-14 HMR Left Handed: The Hunting and Match Rifle (HMR) platform, known for precision and versatility, has left handed versions in select calibers.
- Custom Options: Bergara also allows for custom orders or modifications to create left handed rifles on certain models, although this may involve longer wait times and higher costs.
It is important to note that availability of left handed Bergara rifles can vary by retailer and region, and not all calibers or configurations are offered left handed. Prospective buyers should verify stock and options with authorized Bergara dealers.
How to Choose a Left Handed Bergara Rifle
When selecting a Bergara left handed rifle, shooters should consider several factors:
- Purpose: Determine if the rifle is primarily for hunting, target shooting, or tactical use, as Bergara offers different models optimized for each.
- Caliber: Choose a caliber suitable for your intended use and compatible with available left handed models.
- Stock fit: Since left handed rifles often have specialized stocks, ensure the rifle’s ergonomics match your shooting style and body type.
- Action type and features: Consider bolt throw length, safety type, and magazine configuration.
- Availability: Check with dealers about lead times and stock for left handed versions.
Trying the rifle in person, if possible, is highly recommended to confirm comfort and function.
Common Challenges with Left Handed Rifles
Left handed shooters often face challenges when purchasing rifles, including:
- Limited availability: Most firearms manufacturers produce predominantly right handed models, making left handed rifles harder to find.
- Higher cost: Left handed models or custom builds often carry a price premium due to lower production volume.
- Accessory compatibility: Certain scopes, mounts, and aftermarket parts may be designed primarily for right handed rifles.
- Resale value: Left handed rifles may have a smaller secondary market, affecting resale options.
Bergara’s approach to offering select left handed rifles helps mitigate some of these issues, but buyers should remain aware of these common hurdles.
Comparison with Other Left Handed Rifle Manufacturers
Several other manufacturers are known for producing left handed rifles, sometimes with broader selections than Bergara. For comparison:
- Remington: Offers a substantial lineup of left handed bolt-action rifles, including the Model 700 series.
- Browning: Known for left handed versions in their X-Bolt and A-Bolt series.
- Tikka: Produces left handed models in their T3x series, known for quality and affordability.
- Ruger: Offers left handed rifles primarily in their American and Precision Rifle lines.
Compared to these, Bergara’s left handed offerings are more limited but still competitive in quality and performance.
Cost Considerations for Bergara Left Handed Rifles
Pricing for Bergara left handed rifles typically ranges from mid to upper mid-tier, reflecting the brand’s positioning as a premium yet affordable manufacturer. Factors influencing cost include:
- Model and caliber: Larger calibers and tactical models tend to be pricier.
- Stock material: Synthetic stocks are usually less expensive than laminated or walnut options.
- Custom features: Special finishes, barrel lengths, and left handed configurations can increase price.
As a rough guide, Bergara left handed hunting rifles may start around $900-$1,200, with precision or tactical models exceeding $1,500. Custom orders or limited runs can cost more.
Safety and Handling Tips for Left Handed Shooters
Using a rifle designed for your dominant hand greatly enhances safety and shooting effectiveness. Left handed shooters using a properly configured Bergara rifle should:
- Ensure the bolt handle and safety mechanisms are fully accessible and operable with the left hand.
- Practice cycling the action and clearing malfunctions to build muscle memory.
- Use eye and ear protection to guard against ejected casings and noise.
- Maintain proper cheek weld and sight alignment to maximize accuracy.
Never attempt to shoot a right handed rifle left handed without modifications, as this can lead to dangerous situations with ejection and control.
Alternatives to Bergara Left Handed Rifles
If Bergara’s left handed rifle selection does not meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
- Other manufacturers: Explore left handed models from Remington, Browning, Tikka, and Ruger, which may offer broader choices.
- Custom gunsmithing: Some gunsmiths can convert right handed rifles into left handed configurations, though this can be costly and affect warranty.
- Left handed shooting accessories: If a left handed rifle is unavailable, some shooters adapt right handed rifles with ambidextrous stocks and aftermarket parts, though this is less ideal.
Ultimately, your choice depends on budget, intended use, and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bergara offer left handed rifles in all calibers?
No, Bergara’s left handed rifles are typically limited to select popular calibers suitable for hunting and target shooting. Availability varies by model and dealer.
Can I convert a Bergara right handed rifle to left handed?
Bergara does not officially support conversions. While some gunsmiths may perform modifications, it is complex and not generally recommended due to safety and warranty concerns.
Are Bergara left handed rifles custom orders?
Some left handed models are available as standard options, but others may require custom ordering, especially for less common calibers or configurations.
How do Bergara left handed rifles compare in price to right handed ones?
Left handed Bergara rifles often carry a slight premium due to lower production volume and potential custom work, but the price difference is usually modest.
Where can I buy a Bergara left handed rifle?
Authorized Bergara dealers and certain online retailers stock left handed models. Availability depends on location and current inventory, so contacting dealers directly is advised.
Are Bergara left handed rifles suitable for competitive shooting?
Yes, Bergara’s precision models like the B-14 HMR in left handed configuration are used by competitive shooters and provide excellent accuracy and reliability.
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