Side-Charging AR-15 Uppers: Pros, Cons and Your Options

Short answer: a side-charging AR-15 lets you pull the bolt back with a handle on the side instead of the T-handle at the back. There are three ways to get one: a side-charging upper with the handle built in, a reciprocating handle that screws into a special carrier and needs a slotted upper, or an add-on kit that clamps to the top rail of a standard upper. The main pro is charging with your support hand while your head stays behind the optic; the main con is cost and, for reciprocating designs, a handle that moves when you fire.

The options at a glance

Reciprocating vs non-reciprocating

A reciprocating handle is fixed to the bolt carrier, so it moves back and forth every shot, like on an AK. You can push it forward to help close the bolt, but it needs a clear path along the side of the rifle. A non-reciprocating handle stays put while the rifle fires and only moves when you pull it. Many side-charging uppers sold for the AR-15, such as the Gibbz G4, are non-reciprocating.

Option 1: a side-charging upper

The handle is part of the upper receiver. You build the rifle around that upper, and the maker's instructions tell you which carrier and parts it needs. Our gallery 14.5 inch build uses a Gibbz G4 side-charging upper. Browse uppers on the upper receivers page.

Option 2: a reciprocating carrier handle

Lantac sells a side-charger bolt carrier group whose handle screws into the carrier. It only works in an upper with a slot cut in the side for the handle to travel in, and Lantac recommends its own side-charging upper for a guaranteed fit. See the bolt carrier group guide for how the carrier works.

Option 3: an add-on kit for a standard upper

The Devil Dog Concepts Hard Charger replaces your charging handle and clamps to the top rail; the rear model mounts on the first Picatinny slot and the tactical model on the third. Devil Dog lists it as needing no machining, weighing under 5 ounces and fitting mil-spec, forged and billet uppers. It does not move when the rifle fires. This is the cheapest way to try side charging on a rifle you already own.

Pros and cons

• Pro: charge and clear with your support hand without breaking your cheek weld, which is handy with a large scope.
• Pro: easier to work with a low-mounted optic that crowds the rear T-handle.
• Con: costs more than a standard upper or handle.
• Con: reciprocating handles move every shot, and side handles can catch on gear.
• Con: fewer choices; side-charging uppers are often out of stock.

If you only want an easier rear handle, an ambidextrous or extended latch may be enough: see ambidextrous vs extended charging handle latches and the best charging handles.

Side-charging parts in stock, with today's prices

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Plan the rest of the rifle in the AR-15 builder.

Frequently asked questions

What is a side-charging AR-15 upper?

An upper receiver with a charging handle on the side, so you charge the rifle without reaching for the rear T-handle.

Is a side-charging upper reciprocating?

Many AR-15 side-charging uppers, such as the Gibbz G4, are non-reciprocating. Reciprocating handles, such as Lantac's, are fixed to the carrier.

Can I side-charge my existing AR-15?

Yes, with an add-on kit such as the Devil Dog Hard Charger, which replaces the charging handle and clamps to the top rail.

Do I need a special bolt carrier?

For a reciprocating handle, yes: the handle screws into a special carrier. For a side-charging upper, follow the maker's parts list.

Is a side-charging upper worth it?

For a scoped rifle you shoot from a rest or prone, often yes. For a light carbine, a good ambidextrous charging handle usually does the job.