Best Martin Guitar Lefthanded Acoustic Guitars 2026
Alright, lefty acoustic players, let's talk Martin. Finding a good left-handed acoustic can be a real hunt, and Martin consistently sits at the top of the pile-but it's a big pile, and knowing what you're after is key. This isn't about just owning a 'Martin'; it's about getting the right Martin for your hands and your playing style. We're going to break down the models that actually deliver that signature Martin vibe, and why they're worth the investment.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
⚡ The best lefthanded acoustic guitars in 2026 are Martin Guitar Super D-18 LH (top pick), Martin Guitar DC-10E Modern BLK LH for tighter budgets, and Martin Guitar DC-13E Modern Nat LH for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $1,419–$6,006, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Martin Guitar Super D-18 LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Left-Handed Players
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This left-handed dreadnought feels like a big, warm voice ready to fill a room. The solid spruce top pushes a clear, bright sound while the mahogany back and sides add warmth. It suits lefty players who want a traditional, acoustic tone without extra electronics.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers bright attack and strong projection
- • 20% more internal volume creates a bigger sound than standard models
- • Left-handed configuration caters specifically to players on the left
- • Dreadnought body shape offers a warm, full-range bass response
CONS
- • No electronics included means no onboard pickup or preamp
- • Natural finish shows wear and requires regular maintenance
- • Lefthanded models often command a higher price than right-handed ones
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 629401
$4,540
Martin Guitar DC-10E Modern BLK LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Proper Ergonomics
Comfort
Left-Handed Players
Key Feature:
This black lefty dreadnought has a spruce top that cuts through a mix well. The Sapele body adds some depth, and the included pickup makes it ready for gigging. It's a solid choice for a left-handed player who wants a modern look without the extra cost of a custom shop build.
PROS
- • Premium spruce top delivers bright, responsive attack
- • Sapele back and sides add warmth and density
- • Included Martin E1 pickup system for live playing
- • Black finish looks sleek and modern on stage
CONS
- • Left-handed configuration limits resale value options
- • Hardwood neck may feel less familiar than rosewood
- • No specific weight rating listed in the data
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629361
$1,897
Martin Guitar DC-13E Modern Nat LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Optimal Performance
Comfort
Correct Technique
Key Feature:
This guitar plays big and bright thanks to its spruce top and Koa sides. The built-in pickup helps you perform in loud rooms without turning up the amp. It suits left-handed players who want a classic dreadnought sound. The natural finish looks great but needs careful handling. Overall, it is a solid choice for both home practice and stage gigs.
PROS
- • Premium Koa wood adds rich, warm tones.
- • Solid spruce top delivers strong projection.
- • Built-in pickup makes playing easy.
- • Dreadnought shape handles many chords.
CONS
- • Natural finish shows every scratch.
- • Left-handed models cost more.
- • Case is basic compared to top brands.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 629359
$2,327
Martin Guitar DE Retro Plus Granadillo LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Comfort
Left-Handed Players
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This left-handed dreadnought brings a warm Granadillo body and a sturdy hardwood neck to the stage. The included LR Baggs pickup makes it ready for live sound without extra gear. It suits solo players who want a classic, dark tone that cuts through a mix.
PROS
- • Granadillo wood offers a rich, dark tone for this dreadnought.
- • LR Baggs Element pickup ensures reliable amplification on stage.
- • Selected hardwood neck provides a solid, stable playing feel.
- • Ebonized fingerboard adds durability and a classic dark look.
CONS
- • Lefthanded configuration limits options for right-handed players.
- • No weight information is provided in the product details.
- • Made in Mexico may differ from traditional US Martin specs.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 629338
$3,317
Martin Guitar GPC-13E Modern Nat LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Natural Playing
Optimal Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This left-handed Martin plays like a classic road guitar with a bright Koa sound. The cutaway shape makes reaching high notes easy for anyone. It suits both beginners and pros who want clear tone on stage.
PROS
- • Koa back and sides add bright, complex tones.
- • Cutaway design gives easy access to upper frets.
- • Martin E1 pickup ensures clear amplified sound.
- • Hardwood neck feels sturdy and well-balanced.
CONS
- • Lefthanded models often cost more than right-handed ones.
- • Natural finish shows every scratch and wear quickly.
- • Case is basic softlight, not a hard case.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 629331
$2,327
Martin Guitar OMC-10E Modern Burst LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Left-Handed Players
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This lefty guitar uses a spruce top and Sapele wood for a balanced sound. The cutaway lets you reach higher notes without strain. It comes with a solid pickup for playing in front of a band. Great for road gigs where you need reliability and clear tone.
PROS
- • Classic spruce top for bright, responsive attack
- • Sapele back and sides add warm depth
- • Cutaway design reaches high frets easily
- • Built-in pickup handles live performance well
CONS
- • Left-handed models often cost more than right-handed ones
- • No weight listed means potential heft on the road
- • Case is basic softlight, not a hard shell
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629326
$1,897
Martin Guitar 000-13E Retro Walnut LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
632 mm (24.88")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Comfort
Key Feature:
This left-handed model uses a spruce top and walnut body for a balanced tone. The Martin E1 pickup helps it sound great when plugged in. It fits players who want a classic look with a warm, clear voice.
PROS
- • Classic spruce top delivers bright attack for fingerstyle players.
- • Walnut back and sides provide warm, deep resonance.
- • Martin E1 pickup system ensures clear sound through amps.
- • Elegant natural finish suits both casual and stage use.
CONS
- • Left-handed configuration is rare and often more expensive.
- • No specific weight rating is listed for the instrument.
- • Ovation-style body shape may feel different to right-handers.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629286
$2,269
Martin Guitar Super HD-28 LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Natural Playing
Comfort
Left-Handed Players
Key Feature:
This is a big-sounding dreadnought built for lefties who want power. The solid spruce top hits hard, while the solid rosewood back and sides keep the tone warm. It comes with a tortoise pickguard and a nice case, but there are no pickups inside. It suits players who need room to breathe and love traditional woods.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top offers strong attack and clear highs.
- • Solid rosewood back and sides add warmth and depth.
- • 20% more interior volume for a bigger sound.
- • Diamond inlays and tortoise pickguard add nice looks.
CONS
- • No electronics listed for modern stage use.
- • Left-handed models are harder to find and pricier.
- • Weight is not specified in the text provided.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 629404
$6,007
Martin Guitar 000-10E Retro Nat LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
632 mm (24.88")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Correct Technique
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This lefty guitar brings spruce top warmth and Sapele body depth right out of the box. With a solid hardwood neck and easy-to-read ebony fretboard, it plays smoothly for hours. It's a premium-priced choice for lefties who want a classic look and built-in sound. The 20-fret scale fits well for fingerpicking or strumming.
PROS
- • Selected hardwood neck offers solid stability
- • Sapele back and sides provide rich tone
- • Built-in pickup system aids amplification
- • Natural finish looks classic and clean
CONS
- • Lefthanded models often run higher priced
- • No specific weight data listed in text
- • Scale length is long at nearly 25 inches
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 629379
$1,582
#10
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar D-10E Retro Nat LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Optimal Performance
Comfort
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This guitar feels solid and sounds balanced right out of the box. The spruce top cuts through the mix while the Sapele wood adds warmth. It's a great choice for left-handed players who want a classic dreadnought with built-in pickup. The natural finish looks nice but needs some love to stay looking its best.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top offers bright attack and strong projection
- • Sapele back and sides provide warm, rich mid-range tones
- • Built-in Martin E1 pickup ensures reliable amplification
- • Left-handed configuration suits musicians who play backwards
CONS
- • Natural finish requires more care to maintain its look
- • Steel strings can be harsh on fingertips during playing
- • Case included but no hard shell protection mentioned
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 629377
$1,582
#11
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar D-10E Retro Sapele LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Left-Handed Players
Correct Technique
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This dreadnought guitar uses rich Sapele wood for both the top and the body, giving it a warm sound. The Martin E1 pickup lets you plug in easily, and the extra frets help you reach higher notes. It is built for left-handed players who want a full-bodied acoustic without guessing about its weight.
PROS
- • Solid Sapele wood on top, back, and sides for a rich tone.
- • Includes a Martin E1 pickup for easy amplification.
- • Left-handed design fits players who strum from the other side.
- • 20 frets offer a wide playable range for complex songs.
CONS
- • No weight listed means you cannot tell how heavy it is.
- • Neck material is vague and does not specify the wood type.
- • Lefthanded models often have higher price points than right-handed ones.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 629372
$1,419
#12
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar D-12E Retro Nat LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Comfort
Natural Playing
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty dreadnought brings a big, warm sound thanks to its spruce top and Sapele sides. The solid hardwood neck feels sturdy under your fingers. It's a solid choice for players who want a classic tone with built-in pickup and a case included.
PROS
- • Classic dreadnought sound from solid spruce top
- • Premium Sapele wood for rich, warm backing
- • Solid ebony fingerboard offers smooth play
- • Includes softlight case for easy transport
CONS
- • Made in Mexico differs from traditional US builds
- • No weight spec listed in product details
- • Lefthanded models can be harder to find
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629370
$2,130
#13
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar D-13E Retro Walnut LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
645 mm (25.39")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Correct Technique
Key Feature:
This left-handed dreadnought sounds great with its spruce top and dark walnut body. It plays well on stage thanks to the included pickup and comes with a case. It suits lefty players who want a warm tone without extra setup costs.
PROS
- • Solid walnut back and sides offer rich dark tone
- • Premium spruce top delivers bright, responsive attack
- • Built-in Martin E1 pickup handles live playing well
- • Left-handed design fits players who need it
CONS
- • No weight listed means you can't judge the feel
- • Neck material is vague without specific wood name
- • Made in Mexico may not suit some players' preferences
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629366
$2,269
#14
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar 000-10E Retro Sapele LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
632 mm (24.88")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Optimal Performance
Comfort
Correct Technique
Key Feature:
This lefty guitar plays warm with its mahogany top and dark Sapele wood. The built-in pickup makes it ready for stage play without extra gear. It suits players who want a classic sound in a comfortable left-handed shape.
PROS
- • Sapele back and sides offer rich, dark tones
- • Left-handed design fits right-hand players perfectly
- • Martine E1 pickup provides clear built-in sound
- • Mahogany top delivers warm midrange frequencies
CONS
- • Natural finish requires more frequent polishing
- • No listed truss rod for neck relief adjustment
- • Softlight case offers minimal protection for travel
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 629293
$1,419
#15
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar 000-12E Retro Roadseries LH
Nut width
44.5 mm (1.75")
Scale
632 mm (24.88")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Optimal Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Comfort
Key Feature:
This lefty model brings the classic look of the Retro Roadseries to players who need a natural finish. The Sapele wood gives a warm sound, and the Martin E1 pickup helps you hear yourself on stage. It suits left-handed players who want a solid, high-end acoustic without the bulk of a heavy case.
PROS
- • Natural finish looks classic and matches the Retro Roadseries name perfectly.
- • Sapele wood on back and sides offers a warm, rich tone unlike standard rosewood.
- • Martin E1 pickup system provides reliable built-in amplification for stage use.
- • Selected hardwood neck ensures durability and smooth playability for long sessions.
CONS
- • Left-handed configuration makes it unsuitable for the majority of guitar players.
- • No specific weight data is provided, which is critical for touring musicians.
- • Description lacks details on bracing patterns that affect resonance and sustain.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629281
$2,130
Every lefthanded acoustic guitars that matches
55 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Martin Guitar D-X2E Billy Strings LH | Nut width 43.7 mm (1.72") · Scale 635 mm (25") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,396 |
| 17 | Martin Guitar D-18 Satin LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,783 |
| 18 | Martin Guitar 000C12-16E Nylon LH | Nut width 47.6 mm (1.87") · Scale 672 mm (26.46") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,317 |
| 19 | Martin Guitar GPC-16E-01 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,201 |
| 20 | Martin Guitar DSS-17L Whiskey Sunset Left | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,619 |
| 21 | Martin Guitar OMJM John Mayer Lefthand | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,174 |
| 22 | Martin Guitar 000-28ECL Eric Clapton Left | Nut width 44.4 mm (1.75") · Scale 633 mm (24.92") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,820 |
| 23 | Martin Guitar HD28 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,237 |
| 24 | Martin Guitar 00017 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $3,492 |
| 25 | Martin Guitar 000-15M LH | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,560 |
| 26 | Martin Guitar OM28E LRB LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,819 |
| 27 | Martin Guitar D28 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,994 |
| 28 | Martin Guitar J40 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $6,810 |
| 29 | Martin Guitar HD28 Ambertone LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,599 |
| 30 | Martin Guitar HD28E LRB LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,902 |
| 31 | Martin Guitar D41 Sunburst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $8,324 |
| 32 | Martin Guitar D41 Ambertone LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $8,382 |
| 33 | Martin Guitar D41 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $7,974 |
| 34 | Martin Guitar D35 Sunburst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,587 |
| 35 | Martin Guitar D35 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,237 |
| 36 | Martin Guitar D35 Ambertone LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,599 |
| 37 | Martin Guitar D28 Sunburst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,296 |
| 38 | Martin Guitar D28 Satin 1935 Burst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,388 |
| 39 | Martin Guitar HD28E LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,902 |
| 40 | Martin Guitar D28 Ambertone LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,296 |
| 41 | Martin Guitar D18 Sunburst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,691 |
| 42 | Martin Guitar D18 Ambertone LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,691 |
| 43 | Martin Guitar 0028 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,238 |
| 44 | Martin Guitar 0018 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,307 |
| 45 | Martin Guitar 00028 Sunburst LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 633 mm (24.92") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,470 |
| 46 | Martin Guitar 00028 Ambertone LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 633 mm (24.92") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $5,587 |
| 47 | Martin Guitar D18 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,365 |
| 48 | Martin Guitar GPC-16E-01 LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $2,910 |
| 49 | Martin Guitar D Jr E StreetMaster LH New | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 632 mm (24.88") · Frets 20 frets | $1,280 |
| 50 | Martin Guitar D-X2EL Rosewood LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,023 |
| 51 | Martin Guitar DX Johnny Cash LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $872 |
| 52 | Martin Guitar D-10E-01 Sapele LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 20 frets | $1,314 |
| 53 | Martin Guitar GP-X2E Ziricote Special LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $1,280 |
| 54 | Martin Guitar GPC-13E Burst Ziricote LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets | $2,211 |
| 55 | Martin Guitar D28 Satin LH | Scale 645 mm (25.39") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $4,365 |
Lefthanded Acoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 149 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,280
from $170 to $5,902
Nut width
median 44.5 mm (1.75")
from 42.5 mm (1.67") to 46 mm (1.81") · 144 models
Scale
median 645 mm (25.39")
from 597 mm (23.5") to 650 mm (25.59") · 142 models
Frets
median 20
from 19 to 20 · 128 models
Fingerboard
ebony, rosewood, walnut
most common · 96 models
Fingerboard radius
median 400 mm (15.75")
from 305 mm (12.01") to 400 mm (15.75") · 5 models
Strings
median 12-string
from 12-string to 12-string · 5 models
Neck profile
C, V
most common · 7 models
Body
mahogany, sapele
most common · 7 models
How to Choose the Best Lefthanded Acoustic Guitars
1
Heritage & Construction
Martin's bracing patterns (X-bracing, forward-shifted scalloped X) are legendary for a reason-they're the foundation of their tone. The older the design, the more likely it is to have that complex, responsive voice that separates a Martin from the pack. It's not just about wood type, it's about how that wood is braced.
2
Tonewood Selection
Mahogany offers that warm, dry, fundamental tone - great for fingerpicking and recording vocals. Sitka Spruce is the workhorse top, providing headroom and articulation, perfect for strumming and cutting through a band. Rosewood, especially East Indian, brings a rich overtone complexity and that lush, 'expensive' sound.
3
Neck Profile & Playability
Martin's neck profiles have evolved over the years, and comfort is key. The SlimTaper profile is modern and easy to play, while the Modified Low Oval offers a more vintage feel. Action is also crucial - a higher action can choke sustain, while too low can lead to fret buzz. It's a balance.
4
Sustain & Dynamics
A good Martin resonates. You want that note to linger, to respond to your touch with a wide dynamic range-from a whisper-quiet fingerpicked passage to a full-on strum that fills a room. This is where the bracing and wood quality really shine.
5
Aesthetics & Appointments
Let's be honest, looks matter. From the dovetail joint construction to the quality of the binding and finish, the details reflect the craftsmanship. While aesthetics don't affect tone, they impact the overall feel and value of the instrument.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the hype. A newer, less expensive Martin (like a Road Series or X Series) can be a decent starting point, but you'll notice the corners cut-thinner bracing, less resonant wood. If you're serious, aim for a Standard Series or higher-the difference in tone and build quality is significant. Consider a used model; you can often find a higher-end Martin for a fraction of the new price, just check the neck for any serious warping.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 55 of 149 lefthanded acoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pretty much. Martin doesn't dumb down the left-handed models. The build quality and materials are consistent, but availability is often limited, so be prepared to wait.
Martin tweaked their bracing patterns a few years back to try and modernize the tone. Some players love it, some miss the older, more traditional sound. It's a matter of personal preference - try before you buy if possible.
Not necessarily. A cheaper Martin might feel 'Martin-like', but it won't inspire you like a well-built one. Consider a used Standard Series model for a better playing experience.
Dreadnoughts are the iconic, big-bodied Martins-powerful, with a low-end thump. Grand Auditoriums are smaller, more balanced, and often preferred for fingerpicking and recording. It's a matter of what kind of sound you're after.
That's a loaded question. A good Martin can be worth it if you value that signature tone, build quality, and playability. But there are other great acoustic guitars out there - it's about finding what works best for you and your budget.
