Knowing your shotgun's length of pull (LOP) is crucial for comfortable and accurate shooting. An improperly fitted shotgun can lead to discomfort, poor accuracy, and even injury. This guide will walk you through precisely how to measure your shotgun's length of pull and explain why it matters. Understanding your LOP is a foundational aspect of proper shotgun fit and marksmanship.
Understanding Length of Pull
The length of pull is the distance from the trigger face to the butt of the stock. It's measured in inches and significantly impacts your shooting experience. A correct LOP ensures proper shoulder mount and reduces fatigue, promoting better accuracy. Incorrect LOP can lead to flinching, poor aim, and a generally unpleasant shooting experience.
Why is Proper LOP Important?
- Comfort: An incorrect LOP can cause discomfort and strain, especially during extended shooting sessions. This can lead to fatigue and reduced accuracy.
- Accuracy: A proper LOP allows for consistent and comfortable mounting of the shotgun, leading to better aim and accuracy. Improper LOP can make it difficult to align the sights properly and consistently.
- Safety: A poorly fitting shotgun can lead to improper recoil management, potentially causing injury.
How to Measure Length of Pull: A Step-by-Step Guide
You'll need a ruler or measuring tape for this process. Here's how to accurately measure the length of pull on your shotgun:
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Secure the Shotgun: Place the shotgun on a flat, stable surface. Ensure it's not going to move during the measurement process.
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Find the Trigger Face: Locate the very back of the trigger. This is your starting point for the measurement.
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Identify the Butt of the Stock: Determine where the stock meets your shoulder. This is your ending point. For some stocks, this is clearly defined; others require a bit more judgment.
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Measure the Distance: Place the ruler or measuring tape against the trigger face, aligning the zero mark. Extend the tape measure to the butt of the stock, making sure it's perfectly straight and perpendicular to the stock.
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Record the Measurement: Record the measurement in inches. This is your shotgun's length of pull.
Important Note: For shotguns with a recoil pad, measure to the very back of the pad itself, not to the end of the pad's extension.
Determining Your Ideal Length of Pull
While measuring your current shotgun's LOP is important, understanding your ideal LOP is equally crucial. This is highly individualized and depends on several factors, including:
- Body Size and Build: Taller individuals usually require a longer LOP, while shorter individuals might need a shorter LOP.
- Shooting Style: Your preferred shooting stance and style can also influence the ideal LOP.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, what feels most comfortable and allows for the most accurate shooting will dictate your ideal LOP.
There are various online calculators and resources that can estimate your ideal LOP based on your body measurements. However, the best way to determine your ideal LOP is through hands-on experience and adjustments, possibly with the assistance of a gun fitter.
Adjusting Length of Pull
If your shotgun's LOP doesn't match your ideal LOP, you can adjust it through several methods:
- Recoil Pads: Replacing the recoil pad with one of a different thickness is a common and often cost-effective way to adjust LOP.
- Stock Modification: A gunsmith can modify the stock to lengthen or shorten the LOP. This is a more involved process and may be more expensive.
- Adding Spacers: Some gunsmiths can add spacers between the stock and the receiver to increase the LOP.
Before undertaking any modifications, it's always recommended to consult with a qualified gunsmith. They can assess your situation, provide expert advice and ensure the modifications are performed correctly and safely.
Case Study: Adjusting LOP for Improved Accuracy
A competitive clay shooter, experienced inconsistent shots despite having excellent skills. After measuring the LOP of their shotgun, it was discovered to be an inch shorter than their ideal LOP. By adding a thicker recoil pad, they achieved a significant improvement in their accuracy and consistency. This highlights the substantial impact of a proper LOP on shooting performance.
Conclusion: The Importance of Proper Length of Pull
Measuring your shotgun's length of pull is a critical step towards achieving optimal shooting comfort and accuracy. By understanding your ideal LOP and making necessary adjustments, you can significantly enhance your shooting experience and improve your performance. Remember, always prioritize safety and consult a gunsmith for any modifications to your firearm. Don't underestimate the impact of a properly fitted shotgun on your shooting success!