Last Updated: May 21, 2026
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Introduction
The mandolin’s bright, chiming tone is beloved in bluegrass, folk, Celtic, and classical music — but left-handed players face real challenges when trying to find a properly built lefty instrument. Most mandolins are produced exclusively in right-hand configurations, leaving lefties to either play right-handed (a difficult adjustment), restring a right-hand instrument (which compromises the nut and internal bracing), or seek out the few manufacturers who build true left-handed mandolins. The latter option always produces the best playing experience and sound quality.
What to Look for in a Left-Handed Mandolin
- Body Style: A-style mandolins have a teardrop body that is lightweight and comfortable; F-style mandolins feature the classic scroll and points, preferred for bluegrass due to their bright, cutting tone.
- Solid vs. Laminate Top: Solid wood tops resonate and improve with age; laminate tops are more affordable and humidity-resistant. For serious players, a solid spruce top is worth the extra investment.
- Scale Length: Standard mandolin scale is around 13.9 to 14.1 inches. Shorter scales reduce hand strain and are better for players with smaller hands.
- Nut Setup: A true left-hand mandolin will have the nut slots cut for a reversed string order (G-D-A-E from top to bottom when held left-handed). Do not settle for a flipped right-hand instrument.
Top Left-Handed Mandolins
Kentucky KM-150 Left-Handed Mandolin
The Kentucky KM-150 Left-Handed is a well-regarded A-style mandolin that offers genuine quality for beginning and intermediate left-handed players. Its solid spruce top produces clear, bright tone that projects beautifully in acoustic settings, and the maple back and sides add warmth and definition to the overall sound. Kentucky’s reputation for consistent setup quality means the instrument arrives with comfortable action and accurate intonation. It is one of the most commonly recommended beginner left-hand mandolins by music teachers and players alike.
Loar LM-110L Left-Handed Mandolin
The Loar LM-110L Left-Handed is an affordable A-style mandolin from a brand that takes traditional craftsmanship seriously. Its spruce top and maple body provide classic mandolin resonance, and the hand-scalloped X-brace construction adds stiffness and projection that cheaper mandolins lack. The compensated tailpiece and bone nut are set up specifically for left-hand string order, ensuring accurate intonation and comfortable playability. For lefty beginners who want a genuine step up from entry-level instruments, the LM-110L is excellent value.
Eastman MD305L Left-Handed Mandolin
The Eastman MD305L Left-Handed is an intermediate A-style mandolin that delivers remarkable tone and craftsmanship for its price. Eastman hand-carves and finishes each instrument to a high standard, and the solid Sitka spruce top and maple body produce a rich, nuanced sound that improves noticeably with regular playing. It is properly set up for left-hand playing and includes quality Grover Sta-Tite tuners for reliable pitch stability. For left-handed players ready to invest in a serious instrument, the MD305L is a genuinely rewarding choice.
Final Thoughts
Left-handed mandolin players who invest in a properly built lefty instrument will enjoy better tone, more natural playability, and faster progress. The Eastman MD305L is our top recommendation for its handcrafted quality and superior sound. Start with the right instrument and you will love every moment spent playing this beautiful, versatile instrument.
