Side charging upper

[radgokart]

I've seen side charging uppers with and without a side charging handle slot. Why would either be preferred to the other?

[Coyotegunner]

Not trying to be smart guy,but would it not be up to the preference of the guy buying it?
I like my ARs that charge from the rear,but prefer my Scars and M1s that side charge.

[radgokart]

Correct, but I'm not asking about rear charging vs side charging, I'm asking why (for example) Mega makes two versions of the same side charging upper (with and without a charging handle slot) . Does the charging handle slot give you the option of going back to rear charging?

[OyPinoy]

While I cannot read the minds of the engineers at Mega Arms, here's my take:

I just purchased an LAR OPS4 right-side charger that does not have a rear charging slot. I would prefer to have a T-Charge handle as a back-up because a side charging handle (see Young's Manufacturing Side Charging BCG) could come loose, bend or potentially break and I've been advised by other Cal Gunners to purchase a spare charging handle.

My next build is going to be a mega-side charger with both or an ambi OPS 4 so I have 2 charging options. This issue seems to be a negative aspect of side-chargers.