Originally Posted by
ebf
Muzz, welcome. I am a lefty. Depends what type of shooting you're going to be doing.
Prone only, right hand bolt is actually faster for lefties, coz you keep your left hand on the grip. For bush hunting, or something like NZDA comps where you need quick follow-up shots, a left bolt or lever action is worth it. Position of the safety is also an issue, tang safeties like on the older lever actions are obviously faster.
My primary bush hunting rifle is a Baikal single shot, and I have open sights on it, coz where I hunt, 90% of animals are shot well within 100m.
Keep an eye on Trademe, I have a favorite search stored that notifies me of any left hand rifles, if you are patient, you get some awesome deals. Picked up a Remington 788 lefty for $400 earlier this year...
The Savage International package includes a Weaver scope, and they have lefty models, around $1k, very good deal IMHO.