Left-Handed Models of the Ruger American Rifle Generation II
Specs at a glance
About this product
For years, left-handed shooters visiting our shop have had to make do. They've adapted to right-handed bolts, dealt with ejected brass, and waited for manufacturers to finally listen. That wait is over. Ruger has just announced left-handed models of the Ruger American Rifle Generation II, and we at Iowa Gun Shop are thrilled to be among the first to get them. The initial release is the Ranch configuration in 7.62x39mm—a compact, powerful, and incredibly practical package built from the ground up for the southpaw shooter. This isn't an adaptation; it's the real deal, a factory-lefty Gen II with all the upgrades, chambered in a famously affordable and effective round. If you've been holding out for a left-handed bolt-action that doesn't compromise, your rifle has arrived.
Specs at a Glance
- Manufacturer & Model: Ruger American Rifle Generation II Ranch (Left-Handed)
- Chambering: 7.62x39mm
- Action: Left-Handed Bolt Action
- Barrel: 16.1" Cold Hammer-Forged, Threaded (5/8"-24)
- Muzzle Device: Factory-Installed Radial Port Muzzle Brake
- Stock: Flat Dark Earth with Black Splatter Texture
- Magazine: Detachable Box Magazine (Ruger American Rifle pattern)
- Trigger: Ruger Marksman Adjustable
- Safety: Tang-Mounted, 3-Position
- Overall Length: Compact (Approx. 36.5")
Why We're Stocking This
We handle every gun that comes through our doors, and the feedback from our left-handed customers has been consistent and clear: they want quality options without the "lefty tax" of custom work or the hassle of a right-handed action. When Ruger announced the left-handed Ruger American Rifle Generation II, it was an instant "yes" for our inventory. This is a manufacturer directly answering a major segment of the shooting community, and doing it with one of their most popular, modernized platforms. We believe in supporting gear that serves shooters' actual needs, not just what's easiest to mass produce. The 7.62x39 chambering in particular is a smart choice—it pairs the natural handling of a left-handed bolt with one of the most cost-effective centerfire cartridges available, perfect for everything from whitetail to recreational shooting.
Having handled the right-handed Gen II models extensively, we know the upgrades are significant: the improved stock texture, the superb adjustable trigger, and that cold hammer-forged barrel are all top-tier features. To now offer that same refined experience in a true left-handed configuration is something we're proud to do. We're stocking the left-handed Ruger American Rifle Gen II Ranch because it fills a glaring gap in the market with a trustworthy, American-made solution from a company that stands behind its products.
Who It's For
- The Dedicated Southpaw Hunter: Finally, a compact, lightweight hunting rifle where the bolt handle is where it should be, and brass ejects away from your body. Ideal for treestands or brush.
- The Practical Rifle Shooter: Someone who values high-volume, low-cost practice. The 7.62x39 chambering means you can shoot more for less, and the left-handed action makes follow-up shots smoother and faster.
- The "Do-All" Woods Rifle Owner: This left-handed Ruger American Gen II Ranch is a perfect truck, ATV, or cabin gun. Its compact size, threaded barrel, and potent chambering make it ready for a variety of tasks at short to medium range.
- The New Left-Handed Shooter: An excellent first centerfire rifle. The manageable recoil of 7.62x39 (aided by the muzzle brake), the user-friendly controls, and Ruger's reputation for reliability create a fantastic starting point.
- The Suppressor Enthusiast: The factory-threaded barrel is a direct invitation. Pairing this left-handed bolt gun with a suppressor in 7.62x39 creates a phenomenally quiet and fun-to-shoot system.
- The Value-Conscious Collector of Useful Tools: This isn't a safe queen. It's a working rifle that solves a long-standing problem without breaking the bank. It's for the shooter who buys tools, not just toys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this left-handed Ruger American Rifle Gen II use the same magazines as other models?
A: Yes. This left-handed Ruger American Rifle Generation II in 7.62x39 uses the same detachable box magazine pattern as the standard Ruger American Rifle series. This is a huge benefit for compatibility and finding spares. We'll have magazines in stock.
Q: Is the muzzle brake removable for a suppressor or thread protector?
A: Absolutely. The rifle comes from the factory with the radial port brake installed on the 5/8"-24 threaded muzzle. It can be easily removed to direct-thread a suppressor or install a thread protector (sold separately). The 7.62x39 bore is a great candidate for .30 caliber suppressors.
Q: As a lefty, is it really that much better than just learning on a right-handed bolt?
A: Having run both types behind the counter and on the range, the difference is not subtle. A true left-handed action like this Ruger American Gen II allows you to keep your firing hand on the grip and your eye on the scope while you work the bolt with your support hand. It's faster, more stable, and safer, as hot brass is ejected away from you. It's not about "learning to adapt"; it's about using equipment designed for you.
In Stock & Ready to Ship
The left-handed models of the Ruger American Rifle Generation II are a landmark release, and we have the 7.62x39 Ranch configuration arriving now. This is the rifle left-handed shooters in Iowa have been asking for, and we've got it. Don't settle for a compromise. Come handle it in person at Iowa Gun Shop, feel the texture of the Flat Dark Earth stock, work that left-handed bolt, and see what a purpose-built tool can do. If you're not local, contact us for shipping details. This is one announcement that delivers exactly what it promises.