When buying a hunting rifle, one important factor to consider is the stock length. However, the correct term for this measurement is Length of Pull (LOP), which refers to the distance from the center of the trigger to the end of the buttstock. Getting the right LOP is crucial for both comfort and accuracy. If your rifle doesn’t fit your body properly, it can make shooting awkward, throw off your aim, and make you a less effective shooter.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to determine the best LOP for you.

Why Length of Pull (LOP) Matters

LOP is more than just a number; it plays a vital role in how a rifle feels in your hands and on your shoulder. The LOP affects how easily you can reach the trigger, how well you can absorb recoil, and how naturally you can align the sights with your target.

• If the LOP is too short: Your body will feel cramped, and your face will be too close to the action and sights. This can make shooting uncomfortable, lead to poor form, and throw off your aim.

• If the LOP is too long: You’ll feel like you’re stretching to reach the trigger, which can make aiming harder, decrease your control over the rifle, and lead to instability when you’re trying to fire accurate shots.

Finding Your Ideal Length of Pull (LOP)

There are a couple of methods you can use to find the right LOP for your body type. Both are straightforward and will help ensure that the rifle fits you well.

Method 1: The Arm Measurement

One of the most commonly recommended ways to determine your ideal LOP is to use your arm as a measuring tool.

1. Bend your arm at a 90-degree angle: Hold your shooting arm at a right angle so that your elbow is bent, and your forearm is parallel to the ground.

2. Measure from the crook of your elbow to the first joint of your trigger finger: This measurement is a good approximation of the LOP that will fit your body. Most shooters have an LOP that falls somewhere between 13 to 14.5 inches, but your specific measurement will depend on your body size and proportions.

Method 2: Simulating the Rifle Fit

Another way to find the correct LOP is by testing how a rifle feels in your hands and on your shoulder.

1. Shoulder the rifle: Pick up a rifle and place the buttstock in the pocket of your shoulder. Make sure it’s seated comfortably and doesn’t feel like it’s digging into your collarbone or sitting too high or low.

2. Reach for the trigger: With the rifle shouldered, check how naturally your finger falls onto the trigger. Ideally, you want to be able to rest the pad of your index finger comfortably on the trigger without having to stretch or curl your finger excessively.

3. Align the sights: With the rifle still shouldered, see if you can align your dominant eye with the sights or the scope without tilting your head too far forward or backward. Your head should rest naturally on the stock, allowing for a quick and clear sight picture.

If the rifle feels comfortable in these positions and allows you to naturally align your sights, then the LOP is likely a good fit for you.

Consider Hunting Gear and Shooting Conditions

When determining your LOP, it’s important to remember that you won’t always be shooting in ideal conditions or wearing light clothing. If you hunt in colder weather, you’ll likely be wearing heavier layers or jackets, which can affect how the rifle fits against your shoulder.

• Adjusting for layers: If you plan to shoot with heavier gear, it may be wise to slightly shorten your LOP to accommodate for the extra padding that your clothing provides.

• Variable stock options: Many modern rifles offer adjustable stocks or spacers, which allow you to modify the LOP. This can be especially helpful if you hunt in different seasons or climates, as you can adjust the stock length based on what you’re wearing or how you’ll be shooting.

Testing the LOP in the Field

Once you’ve found a rifle with what seems to be the right LOP, it’s a good idea to spend some time testing it before heading into the field. Take the rifle to the range and practice shouldering it multiple times. Try to mimic the conditions you’ll face when hunting, whether that’s shooting from a standing, kneeling, or prone position.

• Focus on comfort: After shouldering the rifle several times, take note of any discomfort. Does the rifle dig into your shoulder? Does your trigger hand feel cramped or stretched? Small discomforts can become big problems over time, especially during long hunts or multiple shots.

• Consistency in aiming: Each time you bring the rifle up, you should be able to align your eye with the sights consistently and without extra adjustments. If you find yourself struggling to get a clear sight picture, the LOP may need adjusting.

Working with a Gunsmith

If you’re still unsure about your LOP or want to ensure your rifle fits perfectly, it’s worth consulting with a gunsmith. A professional can help you measure your LOP more precisely and may even be able to modify the stock to fit you better. Gunsmiths can also add or remove spacers, or in some cases, custom-make stocks that are tailored to your exact measurements and preferences.