When it comes to customising your AR-15, few upgrades are as practical—and often misunderstood- as a side-charging upper. While the standard rear-charging handle works just fine, many shooters find a side-charging AR-15 upper more ergonomic, intuitive, and reliable for certain applications. Whether you’re building a rifle from scratch or looking to replace your standard upper receiver, this article breaks down what a side charging upper is, why it might be right for you, and what to look for when shopping.
What Is a Side-Charging AR-15 Upper?
A side-charging AR-15 upper relocates the charging handle from the rear of the receiver to either the left or right side of the upper. This design allows you to charge or clear your rifle by pulling a handle that’s mounted directly into the side of the bolt carrier group.
It’s often used in:
- Competition shooting
- Precision rifle builds
- Tactical setups
- Alternative calibres (like .300 BLK or 6.5 Grendel)
Some shooters also just prefer the feel and function of a side charger.
How It Works
There are two primary styles of side charging uppers:
- Non-Reciprocating Side Charger
- The charging handle moves independently of the bolt during firing
- Stays locked in place while the rifle cycles
- Safer for competitive or close-quarters use
- Reciprocating Side Charger
- The charging handle moves with the bolt every time it cycles
- Offers direct control over the bolt for manual cycling
- Great for clearing malfunctions or suppressed builds
Benefits of a Side Charging Upper
There are several reasons why gun owners switch to a side charger:
Easier to Operate
Charging from the side is often faster and more comfortable, especially when shooting from a prone position, using optics, or running suppressed.
Better Scope Clearance
No more bumping into rear charging handles under large optics. Side chargers leave the rear area clean and accessible.
Improved Malfunction Clearing
You can rack the bolt more directly and with better leverage. Useful in training, matches, or stressful scenarios.
Ambidextrous Options
Many side charging uppers come in both left-hand and right-hand configurations for shooter preference.
Who Should Consider a Side Charging Upper?
A side charging upper is ideal for:
- Precision shooters who need low-profile optic clearance
- 3-gun competitors who value speed
- Suppressed rifle users looking for easy gas and bolt control
- Anyone tired of reaching over or under a scope to charge
It’s also a great choice for those building a custom AR from scratch, where you can integrate the upper into a tailored build.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Upper Compatibility
Not all side charging uppers work with standard AR-15 bolt carriers. Some require proprietary BCGS with charging slots or notches cut into the carrier.
Check if:
- The upper includes a modified BCG.
- It works with Mil-Spec lowers.
- The handle is reciprocating or non-reciprocating
- Material and Finish
Look for 7075-T6 aluminium and Type III hard coat anodising for durability. Quality machining reduces wear and improves fit. - Charging Side
Right-handed shooters often prefer left-side charging for better control with their support hand. Lefties may want the opposite. - Handle Design
Some handles fold, lock, or detach for easier transport. Others are fixed but rugged. Choose based on your use case. - Price Range
Prices vary:
- Budget models: ~$150–$250
- Mid-range: ~$300–$450
- High-end: $500+ (includes custom BCGS or advanced coatings)
Top Use Cases
| Use Case | Benefits of Side Charging |
| Precision Shooting | Clear access around optics |
| Competition | Faster reloads and malfunctions |
| Tactical Builds | Manual bolt control, better ergonomics |
| Suppressed Rifles | Easier to manage excess gas blowback |
Is It Worth It?
In most cases, yes. A side charging upper won’t make your AR magically more accurate, but it can significantly improve handling, control, and comfort, especially in demanding conditions.
The only real drawback is cost and compatibility. But for those serious about customising their rifle, it’s a worthwhile upgrade.
READ MORE – Realtek 8762 Charger: Everything You Need to Know
FAQs:
- Can I use my standard AR-15 bolt carrier group with a side charger?
Some models require a proprietary BCG. Always check with the manufacturer. - Which side should the charging handle be on?
Most right-handed shooters prefer a left-side handle so it can be used with the support hand. - Is a side charging upper legal?
Yes. It’s fully legal and complies with AR-15 platform regulations in most states; local laws may vary. - Can I install a side charging upper on any lower receiver?
Yes, as long as it’s a Mil-Spec lower. No modifications are typically needed. - Do side charging ARs still have a dust cover?
Some models include a dust cover or built-in seal. Others use minimalist designs. It’s model-specific.
Conclusion:
The side-charging AR-15 upper is more than just a cool-looking mod—it’s a functional upgrade that can make your shooting experience smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re building for precision, competition, or just personal preference, it brings modern ergonomics to a proven platform. If you’re ready to step beyond the rear charging handle, now’s the time to try a side charger. Just make sure to pick the right configuration for your setup, and enjoy the added speed, comfort, and confidence on every ride you take.
