Length of pull (LOP) is a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of rifle fit and shooting comfort. Simply put, it's the distance from the rifle's trigger face to the rearmost point of the buttstock where it meets your shoulder. Getting the correct LOP is vital for accuracy, consistent shooting, and preventing discomfort or injury. This guide will explain what LOP is, why it matters, and how to determine the ideal length for you.
Why is Length of Pull Important?
An incorrect LOP can significantly impact your shooting experience. Here's why:
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Accuracy: A too-short LOP forces you to reach for the trigger, disrupting your natural shooting posture and introducing inconsistencies. This leads to less precise shots. Conversely, a too-long LOP can cause you to hunch or strain, negatively affecting your aim and follow-through.
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Comfort and Control: The ideal LOP allows you to mount the rifle naturally, with a comfortable and secure cheek weld against the stock. This ensures proper alignment of your eye, sights, and target, enhancing control and reducing fatigue during longer shooting sessions.
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Injury Prevention: Improper LOP can contribute to repetitive strain injuries, particularly in the shoulder and neck. A poorly fitting rifle can cause discomfort, leading to improper shooting techniques and potential injury.
How to Measure Your Length of Pull
Determining your ideal LOP isn't guesswork. Here’s a step-by-step method:
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Find a Comfortable Shooting Position: Assume your natural shooting stance, mimicking how you would hold your rifle.
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Measure from Trigger to Shoulder: Using a flexible measuring tape, carefully measure the distance from the rifle's trigger face to the point where the stock comfortably meets your shoulder pocket. Remember to maintain your shooting posture throughout the measurement.
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Consider Clothing: Account for the thickness of any clothing you would typically wear while shooting. You may need to add a small amount to your measurement to compensate.
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Consult a Professional: If you're unsure, seeking guidance from a firearms professional or experienced shooter can provide valuable insight and ensure accurate measurement. Gunsmiths often offer this service.
Adjusting Length of Pull
Many rifles allow for LOP adjustment, often through:
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Adjustable Buttpads: These offer a simple and effective way to fine-tune the LOP. They typically come with spacers or shims that can be added or removed to adjust the length.
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Replacing the Stock: If your rifle doesn't have an adjustable buttpad, you might consider replacing the stock with one that offers a different LOP. This option provides a more permanent solution but involves a more significant investment.
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Adding a recoil pad: A thicker recoil pad can slightly increase the LOP. This is a less precise method, and the increase is limited by the pad's thickness.
Length of Pull and Different Shooting Disciplines
The ideal LOP can also vary depending on the shooting discipline:
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Precision Shooting: Accuracy is paramount; therefore, finding the perfect LOP is critical. This often involves meticulous adjustment.
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Hunting: Comfort and a rapid, natural shooting position are important, but absolute precision might be slightly less critical than in target shooting.
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Tactical Shooting: The LOP should allow for rapid target acquisition while maintaining stability and control.
Conclusion: Prioritize Comfort and Accuracy
Finding the correct length of pull is a crucial step in optimizing your rifle for accuracy, comfort, and safety. By understanding the importance of LOP and following the measurement guidelines, you can ensure a better shooting experience and improve your overall performance. Don't hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed—the investment in a well-fitting rifle is an investment in your shooting success.
