The length of pull (LOP) on a shotgun is a critical measurement affecting your shooting comfort, accuracy, and overall performance. Getting it right is crucial, regardless of whether you're a seasoned hunter, competitive shooter, or just starting out. This guide will walk you through precisely how to measure your shotgun's LOP and determine if it's the right fit for you.
What is Length of Pull?
Length of pull refers to the distance between the trigger face and the end of the shotgun's buttstock. It's measured in inches and is a key factor in achieving proper gun fit. An incorrect LOP can lead to discomfort, flinching, poor aim, and ultimately, missed shots.
Why is Proper Length of Pull Important?
A shotgun with an improper LOP can negatively impact your shooting in several ways:
- Discomfort: An excessively long LOP can strain your shoulder and arm, leading to fatigue and discomfort during extended shooting sessions. Conversely, a too-short LOP might cause you to hunch or reach, disrupting your natural shooting posture.
- Poor Accuracy: Incorrect LOP can affect your cheek weld (the position of your cheek against the stock) and eye alignment, resulting in inconsistent aim and reduced accuracy.
- Inconsistency: A poor fitting gun will make your shots inconsistent, impacting both your target acquisition and overall proficiency.
- Injury: In extreme cases, an incorrect LOP can contribute to injuries, such as shoulder strain or repetitive strain injuries.
How to Measure Your Shotgun's Length of Pull
Measuring your shotgun's LOP is a straightforward process requiring only a ruler or measuring tape. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Gather Your Tools: You'll need a ruler or measuring tape (preferably one with inch markings) and a hard, flat surface.
- Secure the Shotgun: Place the shotgun on the flat surface with the buttstock resting firmly.
- Identify the Trigger Face: Locate the rearmost point of the trigger. This is your starting point for the measurement.
- Measure to the Butt Pad: Using your ruler or measuring tape, measure the distance from the trigger face to the very back of the butt pad. This is your shotgun's length of pull.
- Record the Measurement: Note down the measurement in inches.
Determining Your Ideal Length of Pull
While measuring your current shotgun's LOP is important, understanding your ideal LOP is equally crucial. Unfortunately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal LOP depends on several factors including your height, arm length, and shooting style. Many gun-fitting experts suggest using a combination of measurements and hands-on fitting for the most accurate results.
Consider consulting with a professional gun fitter for a personalized assessment. They can help you determine your optimal LOP and make recommendations for adjustments or custom stocks.
Adjusting Length of Pull
If your shotgun's LOP isn't ideal, you have several options:
- Butt Pad Adjustment: Some shotguns allow for adjustment of the butt pad, adding or removing spacers to alter the LOP.
- Custom Stock: A gunsmith can create a custom stock to your exact specifications, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Recoil Pad Replacement: Replacing the recoil pad with one of a different thickness can effectively change the LOP.
Conclusion
Measuring the length of pull on your shotgun is a simple yet vital step in ensuring a comfortable, safe, and accurate shooting experience. By understanding your ideal LOP and taking steps to adjust accordingly, you'll significantly improve your shooting performance and enjoyment of the sport. Remember, a proper fit makes all the difference.
