Accurately measuring your shotgun's length of pull (LOP) is crucial for comfortable and effective shooting. An improper LOP can lead to discomfort, poor accuracy, and even injury. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step method to measure your shotgun's LOP and explains what to do if it doesn't fit you perfectly.
Understanding Length of Pull
Length of pull is the distance from the trigger face to the end of the buttstock. It's a critical dimension affecting your shooting stance and how well the gun fits your body. A properly fitted shotgun allows for a natural point of aim and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
What You'll Need
- A shotgun: Obviously!
- A ruler or measuring tape: A flexible tape measure is preferable for ease of use.
- A solid, level surface: A table or bench will work perfectly.
Measuring Your Shotgun's Length of Pull: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare Your Shotgun: Ensure the shotgun is unloaded and the action is open. Safety first!
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Position the Shotgun: Lay the shotgun on a solid, level surface. The buttstock should be flat and stable.
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Identify the Trigger Face: Locate the trigger on the shotgun. The trigger face is the part your finger contacts when you pull the trigger.
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Find the End of the Buttstock: Determine the end of the buttstock. This is typically the backmost point of the recoil pad. If you have a different type of buttstock ending, use that point as your reference.
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Measure the Distance: Using your ruler or tape measure, carefully measure the straight-line distance between the trigger face and the end of the buttstock.
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Record the Measurement: Note down the measurement in inches. This is your shotgun's length of pull.
Interpreting Your Length of Pull Measurement
The ideal length of pull varies depending on individual body size and shooting style. However, a common range is between 13.5 and 14.5 inches. A length of pull that's too short can cause you to hunch over and strain your body. A length of pull that's too long can lead to a poor cheek weld and inconsistent shooting.
What if Your Shotgun's LOP Doesn't Fit?
If your shotgun's length of pull isn't optimal, don't despair! Several options exist to adjust it:
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Recoil Pad Adjustment: Many recoil pads are designed to be adjusted. Check your recoil pad's specifications to see if it offers any length-of-pull adjustment.
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Gunsmith Services: A qualified gunsmith can adjust the length of pull by shortening or lengthening the stock. This is a more involved process and requires expertise.
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New Stock: In some cases, replacing the stock entirely might be necessary. This allows for a complete customization of the length of pull and other dimensions to fit your body perfectly.
Conclusion
Measuring your shotgun's length of pull is a simple yet critical step to ensure proper fit and shooting comfort. By following these steps and considering the implications of a proper LOP, you can significantly improve your shooting experience and accuracy. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you need assistance adjusting your shotgun's fit. Remember, safety always comes first when handling firearms.
