R2BRO Wrote:there are some claims that side charging = unprotected bolt exposed to dust = disadvantage/reliability issue in a field;
is the above claim valid or no?
Yes, technically speaking, since there is no dust cover you have a higher likelihood of dirt getting into the action.
I dont own any side chargers but do have a few slick side uppers i run often. Ive never had an issue with dirt or debris while running drills or all day hunts. It would probably prove to be troublesome in a sandy desert environment or extremely muddy.