Measuring Length of Pull: A Complete Guide to Fit

Achieving optimal firearm fit begins with understanding and mastering the concept of Length of Pull (LOP), a critical dimension impacting both accuracy and comfort. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) emphasizes the importance of proper LOP, highlighting that a firearm which correctly fits the shooter enhances control and reduces felt recoil. A key attribute of the AR-15 platform is its modularity, allowing for adjustable stocks that can be tailored to different body sizes and shooting styles, directly influencing the measurement of length of pull. Tools such as a measuring rod, often used by gunsmiths, are essential for precisely measuring length of pull from the trigger to the buttstock, ensuring a customized fit for each shooter.

Unlocking Accuracy and Comfort: The Power of Length of Pull

Length of Pull (LOP) is a fundamental, yet often overlooked, aspect of firearm fit. It’s the distance between the trigger and the end of the buttstock – a measurement that holds the key to unlocking a world of improved accuracy, enhanced comfort, and a more confident shooting experience.

Ignoring LOP is akin to wearing shoes that are several sizes too big or small. The result is an awkward, inefficient, and ultimately frustrating experience. A firearm with an improper LOP will hinder your ability to consistently and accurately hit your target, regardless of your skill level.

Defining Length of Pull and Its Significance

Simply put, Length of Pull (LOP) is the distance from the trigger to the midpoint of the buttstock. This measurement is critical because it dictates how comfortably and efficiently you can interface with the firearm.

A proper LOP allows for a natural and repeatable mounting of the gun, ensuring consistent eye alignment with the sights or optic. Conversely, an incorrect LOP can lead to a host of problems, from discomfort and fatigue to flinching and missed shots.

The Importance of Proper Gun Fit

Proper gun fit, with LOP as a cornerstone, is not just about comfort; it’s about performance and safety. A well-fitted firearm becomes an extension of your body, allowing for intuitive and precise movements.

When a firearm fits correctly, recoil is managed more effectively, reducing felt recoil and minimizing the risk of developing bad shooting habits. This leads to increased confidence, better accuracy, and a more enjoyable experience.

Beyond performance, proper gun fit contributes to safer gun handling.

A secure and comfortable grip reduces the likelihood of accidental discharges or losing control of the firearm, particularly in dynamic shooting situations.

Exploring LOP and Its Practical Application

This article is designed to be your comprehensive guide to understanding and optimizing Length of Pull for your specific needs. We’ll delve into the myriad factors that influence your ideal LOP, explore practical methods for measuring and adjusting it, and discuss when to seek expert assistance.

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and tools necessary to unlock the full potential of your firearms and achieve a new level of accuracy, comfort, and confidence.

Understanding the Core Concepts: LOP, Gun Fit, and Mounting

Length of Pull (LOP) is a fundamental, yet often overlooked, aspect of firearm fit. It’s the distance between the trigger and the end of the buttstock – a measurement that holds the key to unlocking a world of improved accuracy, enhanced comfort, and a more confident shooting experience. Let’s delve into the core concepts surrounding LOP, gun fit, and mounting to better understand their intertwined relationship.

What is Length of Pull (LOP)?

LOP is defined as the distance from the trigger to the center of the butt of the stock.

It’s usually measured in inches. This seemingly simple measurement has a profound impact on how you interact with your firearm.

A proper LOP ensures that the firearm sits comfortably and securely against your shoulder, allowing for a stable shooting platform and minimizing unnecessary strain.

An incorrect LOP can lead to discomfort, inconsistent shouldering, and ultimately, diminished accuracy.

The Importance of Proper Gun Fit

Defining "Proper Fit"

What constitutes "proper fit" is partially subjective. It depends on individual body type and shooting style. However, some universal principles apply.

A well-fitted gun should allow you to comfortably reach the trigger without straining your neck or shoulder.

It should also allow you to achieve a consistent cheek weld on the stock, ensuring proper eye alignment with the sights or scope.

Gun Fit and Recoil Management

Beyond comfort and accuracy, proper gun fit plays a crucial role in recoil management.

A gun that fits well distributes recoil more effectively across your body. This reduces the felt impact and minimizes the risk of developing a flinch.

When the LOP is correctly matched to your physique, you can better absorb the recoil.

Gun Mounting: The Foundation of Consistent Shooting

Mastering the Mounting Technique

Gun mounting is the process of bringing the firearm to your shoulder in a consistent and repeatable manner.

The goal is to establish a stable and secure shooting platform.

A smooth, fluid mount is essential for accuracy, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios.

The LOP’s Role in Consistent Mounting

LOP directly influences the consistency of your gun mount.

If the LOP is too long, you may struggle to bring the gun to your shoulder quickly and efficiently. You will be over-reaching, causing strain and potential inaccuracy.

If it’s too short, you may find yourself crowding the stock, leading to an unstable shooting position. An appropriate LOP allows for a natural and consistent mounting process.

Comb Height: Aligning Your Vision

Comb height refers to the vertical distance from the top of the stock to the rib on a shotgun, or the sights on a rifle. This dimension plays a crucial role in ensuring proper eye alignment with your sighting system.

When comb height is correct, your eye should naturally line up with the sights or scope without requiring you to strain or adjust your head position.

An incorrect comb height will result in an improper cheek weld.

This can cause you to shoot high or low, or prevent you from seeing clearly through your optic.

Eye Relief: Achieving a Clear Sight Picture

Eye relief is the optimal distance between your eye and the rear of your scope. This provides a full, clear field of view.

Maintaining proper eye relief is critical for fast target acquisition and accurate aiming, especially with rifles.

LOP can significantly influence your ability to achieve proper eye relief.

If the LOP is too long or too short, you may find yourself either too far away or too close to the scope.

This will impact the image clarity and increase the risk of scope bite (being hit in the eye by the scope during recoil). By adjusting your LOP, you can optimize your distance from the scope. This maximizes your field of view and minimizes the risk of injury.

Factors Influencing Your Ideal Length of Pull

Understanding Length of Pull (LOP) is crucial, but finding your ideal LOP is a journey that depends on several intertwined factors. It’s not just about a single measurement, but a careful consideration of your unique physical characteristics, shooting style, and the firearm itself. Let’s explore these key influencers to help you unlock your shooting potential.

The Impact of Age, Body Type, and Stature

One of the most obvious influences on LOP is your physical build. Stature, arm length, and even chest size play a significant role in determining the most comfortable and effective LOP for you.

A taller individual with longer arms will generally require a longer LOP than someone with a smaller frame. Consider that even within the same height, variations in arm length can shift the ideal LOP by an inch or more.

Children and adolescents will inevitably require shorter LOPs than adults, and should use youth models until physically ready for the adult dimensions.

It’s also vital to remember that our bodies change over time. As we age, we may experience changes in posture, muscle mass, and flexibility. These changes can all affect how we mount a firearm and, consequently, the LOP that feels most natural.

Therefore, what felt perfect in your 20s may no longer be optimal in your 40s or beyond. Regularly reassessing your LOP as you age is crucial to maintaining comfort and accuracy.

Shooting Stance and Posture

Your chosen shooting stance and overall posture significantly dictate your ideal LOP. A more bladed, squared-off stance might favor a shorter LOP, bringing the firearm closer to your body. Conversely, a more modern, aggressive stance, often adopted in tactical shooting, may benefit from a slightly longer LOP to accommodate the extended arm position.

Consider how you naturally hold and shoulder the firearm. Are you leaning forward aggressively, or maintaining a more upright position? These subtle differences can dramatically alter the optimal LOP.

Experimenting with different stances, while focusing on proper alignment and balance, is crucial to determining the LOP that complements your unique biomechanics.

The Importance of Trigger Reach

While LOP focuses on the distance from the buttstock to the trigger, the actual reach to the trigger is equally crucial.

If you find yourself straining or contorting your hand to comfortably reach the trigger, it could indicate that your LOP is too long. This can lead to inconsistent trigger pulls and decreased accuracy.

A proper LOP allows for a natural and relaxed trigger finger placement, enabling smooth and controlled manipulation of the trigger. Evaluate your trigger reach in conjunction with your overall LOP. You may find that adjusting the LOP slightly can drastically improve your trigger control and, consequently, your shooting performance.

Tailoring LOP to Your Shooting Discipline

Different shooting disciplines demand different techniques and postures, which in turn influence the ideal LOP.

For example, a shotgun shooter engaged in trap or skeet might prefer a slightly longer LOP to facilitate smooth swings and consistent target acquisition. This longer LOP can help maintain a consistent cheek weld and eye alignment with the rib.

Conversely, a hunter maneuvering through dense cover might benefit from a shorter, more compact LOP for quicker shouldering and improved maneuverability.

Rifle shooters engaged in precision shooting often fine-tune their LOP to achieve optimal stability and comfort while shooting from prone or supported positions.

Consider the specific demands of your chosen shooting discipline and adjust your LOP accordingly to maximize your performance in that context.

Understanding Pitch and Its Connection to LOP

Pitch refers to the angle of the buttstock in relation to the barrel. It’s measured as the angle between a line extending from the barrel and a line extending from the bottom of the buttstock.

Proper pitch is critical for comfortable recoil management, especially with shotguns. If the pitch is incorrect, the heel or toe of the buttstock may dig into your shoulder during recoil, causing discomfort and bruising.

Pitch often works in conjunction with LOP. Adjusting LOP can sometimes influence the effective pitch, and vice-versa. A gunsmith or experienced stock fitter can expertly adjust pitch to ensure the buttstock makes full and even contact with your shoulder, distributing recoil evenly and reducing discomfort.

Cast: Fine-Tuning for Eye Alignment

Cast refers to the horizontal angle of the buttstock, either cast-on (away from the shooter’s face) or cast-off (towards the shooter’s face). It primarily addresses eye alignment with the sights or rib.

While not directly influencing LOP, cast interacts with LOP to affect overall gun fit. If you consistently find yourself having to tilt your head to properly align your eye with the sights, adjusting the cast may be necessary. This adjustment can then indirectly impact the ideal LOP.

Achieving optimal gun fit is a holistic process. While LOP is a fundamental measurement, it must be considered in conjunction with other critical factors such as pitch and cast to achieve a firearm that truly feels like an extension of your body.

Tools and Techniques for Adjusting Length of Pull

Understanding Length of Pull (LOP) is crucial, but finding your ideal LOP is a journey that depends on several intertwined factors. It’s not just about a single measurement, but a careful consideration of your unique physical characteristics, shooting style, and the firearm itself. Let’s explore these key tools and techniques that can help you fine-tune your firearm for a perfect fit.

Approximating LOP with a Measuring Tape

The simplest method for estimating your LOP involves using a standard measuring tape. While not the most precise, it offers a starting point.

To do this, stand with your arm extended as if holding a firearm.

Have someone measure from the crease of your elbow to the distal joint of your trigger finger. This measurement provides a rough estimate.

Keep in mind that individual stance and preferences can influence the ideal LOP. So consider this a preliminary step.

Precision with an LOP Gauge

For a more accurate measurement, consider using a dedicated LOP gauge.

These tools are designed to mimic the position of a firearm against your shoulder and provide a precise LOP reading.

Using an LOP gauge involves positioning the device against your shoulder and extending your trigger finger.

The gauge then indicates the distance required for a comfortable and effective shooting stance.

The advantage of an LOP gauge lies in its ability to provide consistent and repeatable measurements, eliminating guesswork.

Versatility of Adjustable Stocks

Aftermarket adjustable stocks offer the ultimate in customization.

These stocks typically feature adjustable cheek rests, recoil pads, and, most importantly, LOP.

The benefits are immense. You can fine-tune the stock to perfectly match your body and shooting style.

Adjusting an adjustable stock involves loosening the locking mechanisms and sliding the components to your desired positions.

Ensure that the stock is securely locked in place before shooting.

Experimentation is key to finding the optimal settings.

Extending LOP with Stock Spacers/Extensions

Stock spacers or extensions are simple yet effective for increasing LOP.

These are typically installed between the stock and the recoil pad.

They add length to the overall stock, accommodating shooters with longer arms or those who prefer a longer LOP.

When selecting spacers/extensions, material and secure attachment are essential.

Opt for durable materials and ensure the spacers are properly installed to avoid any safety issues.

Fine-Tuning with Recoil Pads

Recoil pads not only cushion recoil, but also subtly impact LOP.

Thicker recoil pads can effectively increase LOP by a small amount, which can be beneficial for shooters needing minor adjustments.

It’s a balancing act. Consider the level of recoil reduction needed alongside the subtle change in LOP.

Experiment with different thicknesses to find the right balance between comfort and fit.

Seeking Expert Assistance: When to Consult a Professional

Understanding Length of Pull (LOP) is crucial, but finding your ideal LOP is a journey that depends on several intertwined factors. It’s not just about a single measurement, but a careful consideration of your unique physical characteristics, shooting style, and the firearm itself. Let’s explore the invaluable role of professionals who can guide you toward that perfect fit.

While self-assessment and adjustments are possible, there are times when the expertise of a professional is not just helpful, but essential. Knowing when to seek assistance can save you time, frustration, and ensure you achieve a truly optimized shooting experience.

The Role of a Gunsmith: Precision Stock Alterations

A gunsmith’s expertise lies in the precise and permanent modification of your firearm. They are the artisans who can reshape, refinish, and adapt your stock to your specific needs.

When to Consult a Gunsmith

Consulting a gunsmith is particularly beneficial when dealing with:

• Significant LOP Adjustments: If you require a substantial alteration to your stock, a gunsmith can expertly cut, reshape, or add material for optimal fit.
• Custom Stock Contouring: A gunsmith can tailor the stock’s shape to perfectly match your hand and cheek weld, enhancing comfort and control.
• Complex Repairs: Damage to your stock requires professional repair to ensure structural integrity and safety.
• Fine-Tuning Fit Dimensions: Gunsmiths can adjust Cast-on and Cast-off, Pitch, and perform other modifications to achieve optimal eye alignment and recoil management.
• Refinishing: When modifications require a refinish, a gunsmith can provide a professional-quality finish matching original specs or custom requests.

Types of Adjustments a Gunsmith Can Perform

Gunsmiths offer a range of services that can significantly impact your gun fit:

• Stock Shortening/Lengthening: Precisely cut and refinish the stock to achieve your desired LOP, including the installation of spacers or recoil pads.
• Comb Height Adjustments: Adjustments of the comb (or cheekpiece) can align your eye perfectly with the sights, particularly important for rifles with optics.
• Adding Adjustable Cheek Pieces: Gunsmiths can install aftermarket adjustable cheek risers on rifle stocks for fine-tuning.
• Custom Stock Fabrication: For a truly personalized fit, a gunsmith can craft a completely custom stock to your exact specifications.

The Insight of Shooting Instructors and Coaches: Dynamic Fit Analysis

While a gunsmith addresses the physical dimensions of your firearm, shooting instructors and coaches analyze your dynamic interaction with it. They can observe your stance, mount, and shooting form to diagnose fit issues that might not be apparent through static measurements.

Benefits of a Professional Assessment

A qualified shooting instructor can provide invaluable insights:

• Identifying Inconsistencies: Instructors can pinpoint inconsistencies in your mount or shooting technique that are caused by poor gun fit.
• Optimizing Stance and Posture: They can help you refine your stance and posture to complement your gun fit, leading to improved accuracy and reduced recoil.
• Personalized Recommendations: Based on their observations, instructors can recommend specific LOP adjustments or other stock modifications to optimize your shooting form.
• Addressing Recoil Management: Expert instructors can teach techniques to mitigate recoil and minimize flinching and improve performance by fine-tuning gun fit.
• Holistic Approach to Improvement: They provide guidance on all aspects of shooting, from gun fit to breathing and trigger control.

Diagnosing Fit Issues

Instructors often use various methods to assess your gun fit:

• Mounting Drills: Observing your gun mount to identify issues like reaching for the trigger or craning your neck to see the sights.
• Patterning: Analyzing shot patterns to determine if the gun is shooting where you are looking.
• Video Analysis: Recording your shooting form to identify subtle movements and inconsistencies.
• Feedback on Felt Recoil: Assessing your perceived recoil to determine if the gun is fitting you properly.

Aftermarket Stock Manufacturers: Customizable Solutions

For shooters seeking adjustable or highly customizable solutions, aftermarket stock manufacturers offer a wide range of options. These stocks allow for on-the-fly adjustments to LOP, comb height, and other critical dimensions.

Exploring Aftermarket Options

Consider these options when exploring aftermarket stocks:

• Adjustable Stocks: Stocks with adjustable LOP, comb height, and cast offer a high degree of customization.
• Modular Systems: Stocks that allow you to swap out components to create a personalized fit.
• Folding/Collapsible Stocks: Useful for compact storage or transport.
• Ergonomic Designs: Stocks designed for improved comfort and control.
• Tactical Considerations: Stocks designed to accept accessories like lights and lasers.

Remember that even with adjustable stocks, consulting a professional to help you dial in the perfect fit is highly recommended. A professional ensures every element, like cheek weld, trigger reach, and stance, are optimized for peak performance.

Ultimately, achieving optimal gun fit is a process that may require the expertise of one or more professionals. By understanding their roles and knowing when to seek their assistance, you can unlock your full shooting potential and enjoy a more comfortable and rewarding shooting experience.

Real-World Examples: LOP Adjustments in Action

Understanding Length of Pull (LOP) is crucial, but finding your ideal LOP is a journey that depends on several intertwined factors. It’s not just about a single measurement, but a careful consideration of your unique physical characteristics, shooting style, and the firearm itself. Let’s explore real-world scenarios where LOP adjustments have made a tangible difference.

Case Studies: Tailoring LOP to the Discipline

The impact of proper LOP extends across various shooting disciplines. Let’s consider a few examples:

• Trap Shooting: A trap shooter with a LOP that’s too long might find themselves struggling to consistently break targets on hard left or right angles. The extra length forces them to reach for the gun, disrupting their swing and creating inconsistent cheek weld. Shortening the LOP, even by half an inch, can allow for a smoother, more natural swing and improved target acquisition.

• Skeet Shooting: Skeet shooters require fluid movement and rapid target acquisition. A LOP that’s too short can cause them to hunch over the gun, leading to fatigue and reduced accuracy. Conversely, a LOP that’s too long can hinder their ability to quickly mount the gun and track the target. Finding the optimal LOP allows for a balanced stance, effortless gun mount, and improved lead.

• Hunting Rifles: In hunting scenarios, especially in dense environments or when shooting from awkward positions, a rifle LOP must prioritize speed and maneuverability. A hunter with a LOP that’s too long will have slower target acquisition, and will be more likely to have the gun snag on clothing. A shorter LOP can facilitate a quicker, more fluid mount, crucial for capitalizing on fleeting opportunities.
  

  Conversely, if hunting in cold climates with bulky clothing, adding length to LOP may be needed.
  

• AR-15 Platform: An AR-15 style rifle’s adjustable stock offers great versatility for different shooting stances. Shooters can dynamically adjust their LOP for standing, prone, or supported shooting positions, ensuring consistent cheek weld and sight alignment across all scenarios. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining accuracy and control in dynamic shooting situations.

Troubleshooting Common Fit Issues

Improper LOP can manifest in a variety of ways, and recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward correction:

• "Getting Punched" by Recoil: A common sign of a LOP that’s too short is increased felt recoil. The shooter is essentially closer to the impact, leading to discomfort and potential flinching. Increasing the LOP, along with proper shooting technique, can help distribute recoil more effectively.

• Difficulty Achieving a Consistent Cheek Weld: A LOP that’s too long or too short can make it challenging to establish a consistent cheek weld, resulting in inconsistent sight picture and reduced accuracy. Adjusting LOP in conjunction with comb height adjustments often resolves this issue.

• Bruising of the Bicep: This issue typically arises when the LOP is excessively long. During recoil, the stock impacts the bicep, leading to discomfort and bruising. Shortening the LOP prevents this direct contact and allows for more comfortable shooting.

• Inconsistent Shot Patterns (Shotguns): In shotgun shooting, LOP directly affects where the shot pattern impacts relative to the point of aim. A too short or too long LOP will affect your shot consistency. Make small adjustments to LOP at a shooting range to fine-tune accuracy.

Alleviating Discomfort and Reducing Felt Recoil

A well-fitted gun is not only more accurate but also significantly more comfortable to shoot. By optimizing LOP, you can:

• Distribute Recoil More Evenly: A proper LOP ensures that the recoil is distributed across a larger surface area of the shoulder, reducing the concentration of force in any one spot. This translates to less perceived recoil and reduced fatigue.

• Promote a More Natural Shooting Position: An appropriate LOP facilitates a more relaxed and balanced stance, reducing muscle strain and improving overall comfort. A comfortable shooter is a more accurate shooter.

• Enhance Control and Stability: When the gun fits properly, you have better control over the firearm, leading to increased stability and reduced muzzle rise. This is particularly important for rapid follow-up shots.

Adjusting your gun’s Length of Pull is not a one-size-fits-all solution. By paying close attention to these practical examples and real-world scenarios, you can diagnose fit issues, implement targeted adjustments, and ultimately unlock a more comfortable, accurate, and enjoyable shooting experience.

So, whether you’re customizing a new rifle or tweaking an old favorite, taking the time to accurately measure length of pull is an investment in your comfort, accuracy, and overall shooting experience. Grab your tools, follow the steps, and get ready to dial in that perfect fit! Happy shooting!