Can You Use a Right-Handed Sight on a Left-Handed Bow?

15 April 2022

It’s a right-handed world. If you’re one of the 10% who is left-handed, it becomes a daily game of cat and mouse. With many items, you can makeshift things to work around this socially-induced handicap. But, with some objects, it’s just not feasible or a good idea. This is especially true in the world of sport hunting in regard to bows and arrows.

So, can you use a right-handed sight on a left-handed bow? No, you can’t.

You have to have a left-handed sight on a left-handed bow and vice versa. There is no other way around this and a makeshift setup to make it work is iffy. Therefore, it’s best to find the correct sight and put it on the proper-handed bow.

Why Can’t You Use a Right-Handed Sight on a Left-Handed Bow?

In regards to archery, you must be precise and accurate with confidence in what you’re aiming at.

To become better, you have many options, one is to use archery training apps. Using the wrong kind of sight on a bow can spell disaster on several levels. All of which you want to avoid. At best, you could simply aim wrong. At worst, you could seriously hurt yourself or someone else.

Problems with Vision; Potential Danger

If you tried to install a right-handed sight on a left-handed bow, you would run into problems with the integral amenities of the sight itself. It would be backward and upside down. Depending on the engineering and design of the sight, it could even present a mirrored appearance that will be really confusing.

Additionally, the mismatch could make it difficult to see your target at certain angles. But, this will vary depending on the kind of bow you have, what your target is, and the kinds of arrows you’re using. However, if you’re doing night hunting, don’t even take a chance.

There Might Be Some Exceptions to the Rule

Having said all that, there are some exceptions to note. While some people say it’s okay to do, many experts don’t agree. Yet, there are other types of equipment and many variables that can influence the possibility of using a right-handed sight on a left-handed bow.

Using an Ambidextrous Sight

You could try installing an ambidextrous sight. That would be a better option if you have it available to you. This is useful if you have no other choice than to use a left-handed bow. But, if you can invest in the proper equipment appropriate to your dominant hand and sight, it will be better for you.

Some People Say It’s Okay

If you poke around through online forums on the subject, some people try to say that you can simply flip the housing and this should take care of it. But this isn’t advisable for safety and security reasons. Plus, it leaves far too much up to chance since varying manufacturers produce sights and bows differently.

If You Do Try It

This isn’t to say you can’t try it since there are some people who do switch them and don’t experience issues. But don’t go out into the field with it unless you are certain sure this is going to work. You’ll have to do some tests and other configurations with the setup. This includes a few practice rounds to see how it goes.

Success Relies on Many Variables

So, the success in attempting such a thing will not only rely on the sight itself but also on the design of the bow. As you probably already well know, these come in an array of styles, sizes, shapes, materials, and other configurations. Some may work beautifully in using an opposing sight while for others it will be impossible.

But, understand that manufacturers do not design and engineer their bows for this kind of conversion. The materials and the overall makeup of a bow don’t allow for such a thing. So, this is going to come down to the luck of the draw in terms of the equipment you have to work with.

When in Doubt . . .

As a general rule when in doubt, don’t switch out the correlating sight for the opposing hand. It’s not worth the risk if you’re unsure about it. Try your best to have the appropriate sight for the handed bow; it’s the only way to get the best results.

Final Thoughts

For all intents and purposes, don’t attempt to change out a right-handed sight for a left one on a left-handed bow. Most experts and seasoned professionals always warn against doing it. Plus, when it comes to hunting or sport, observe safety first. Use a left-handed sight for a left-handed bow and a right-handed sight for a right-handed bow.