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Length of pull

Length of pull (LOP) is a fundamental dimension in the design and fitting of shoulder-fired firearms, such as rifles and shotguns, defined as the distance from the center of the trigger to the center of the buttstock or recoil pad.^[1]^[2]^[3] This measurement, typically ranging from 12 to 15 inches depending on the shooter's build, ensures optimal alignment of the firearm with the user's anatomy for effective handling and performance.^[3]^[4] Proper LOP is essential for shooter comfort and safety, as an ill-fitting stock can lead to increased felt recoil, poor posture, or even injury during firing.^[3]^[1] For instance, a stock that is too long may drag on the shoulder or catch in the armpit, slowing target acquisition, while one that is too short can drive the recoil directly into the shoulder and face, exacerbating discomfort.^[1]^[2] To determine the ideal LOP, shooters often use the "elbow method," where the arm is bent at a 90-degree angle and the distance from the elbow crease to the tip of the trigger finger is measured, aiming for about a half-inch gap when the firearm is shouldered.^[3]^[2] Many modern firearms feature adjustable stocks to accommodate variations in shooter height, clothing layers, or multiple users, with factory standards commonly set at 13 to 13.75 inches for adult males.^[3]^[4] Youth and women's models often have shorter LOPs, around 12 inches or less, to promote safe and accurate shooting among smaller-framed individuals.^[4] Custom fitting by gunsmiths or through aftermarket stocks further refines this parameter, enhancing precision in hunting, sport shooting, and tactical applications.^[3]

Definition and Fundamentals

Core Definition

Length of pull (LOP) is the distance measured in a straight line from the center of the trigger to the center of the buttplate or recoil pad at the rear of the buttstock.^[5]^[2] This measurement is typically taken along the centerline of the stock to ensure consistency and accuracy in firearm fitting.^[6] The endpoints involve the trigger as the forward point and the buttplate or recoil pad as the rearward terminus, encompassing the grip and stock body in between.^[7] LOP primarily applies to shoulder-fired long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, where it determines the firearm's alignment with the shooter's shoulder and body during mounting.^[6]^[4] In these weapons, the dimension influences the overall ergonomics, allowing the shooter to achieve a natural and repeatable position for sighting and recoil absorption.^[2] The measurement is expressed in inches or centimeters, with factory standards for adult males typically ranging from 13 to 13.5 inches, though custom adjustments may extend to 12.5–14.5 inches based on shooter build.^[2]^[4] This standard reflects an average fit for most adult users, ensuring compatibility with common shooting stances without excessive strain.^[6] While LOP plays a key role in overall firearm ergonomics, its precise adjustment contributes to improved comfort and control during use.^[7]

Historical Origins

During the 19th century, the advent of mass production during the Industrial Revolution shifted firearm design toward standardization to meet growing military and civilian demands. Historical models like the Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle, introduced in the 1870s, featured lengths of pull around 13 inches, facilitating efficient manufacturing while approximating fit for average adult users.^[8]^[9] A pivotal milestone occurred in the 1950s with the introduction of adjustable stock features in military rifles, notably experimental and variant designs for the M14, which recognized population-wide variability in shooter dimensions and prioritized adaptability for roles such as paratroopers. The M14E1 folding stock, tested during this period, allowed for collapsible configurations to enhance portability and fit, while the later M14A1 variant incorporated a fixed length of pull of 13.16 inches with adjustable foregrip positioning for stability in automatic fire.^[10]

Measurement Techniques

Measuring on Firearms

To measure the length of pull (LOP) on a firearm, begin by ensuring the firearm is completely unloaded, with the chamber visually inspected and no ammunition present in the magazine or nearby, to prioritize safety during handling.^[2] Common tools for this measurement include a standard ruler or tape measure for basic assessments, a digital or vernier caliper for higher precision, or a specialized LOP gauge designed for firearm stocks, such as those offered by stock manufacturers for consistent results.^[2]^[11]^[12] The standard step-by-step method involves positioning the firearm on a stable surface with the stock horizontal and parallel to the bore axis. Start at the forward face or center of the trigger blade, then measure in a straight line to the center of the buttplate or recoil pad at the stock's end, ensuring the line follows the bore's direction to account for any stock geometry.^[2]^[13] For stocks with curves or irregular contours, such as certain shotgun designs, a flexible non-stretchable tape measure may be used to follow the natural path of the pull while maintaining alignment with the bore line, avoiding straight-line approximations that could skew results.^[13] Common pitfalls include taking diagonal or off-axis measurements, which can overestimate or underestimate the LOP by up to 1/2 inch, and failing to center the measurement on the trigger shoe rather than its edge.^[2] Measurements are typically precise to within 1/8 inch using a caliper or gauge, allowing for reliable comparisons across stocks. For example, many aftermarket stocks for the Remington 700 rifle, such as the Hogue OverMolded model, register an LOP of 13.75 inches when measured this way.^[2]^[14]

Assessing Shooter Fit

Assessing an individual's ideal length of pull (LOP) begins with a simple body measurement that simulates the arm's position during trigger engagement. To determine this, bend the shooting arm at a 90-degree angle at the elbow with the palm facing up, then measure the distance from the crease of the elbow to the first knuckle of the index finger, as if pulling the trigger.^[3] This measurement typically yields an average of 13.5 to 13.75 inches for adult shooters, reflecting standard body proportions in the population.^[3] Several factors influence the appropriate LOP beyond the basic arm measurement, including arm length, torso height, and the adopted shooting stance. Longer arms or taller torsos often necessitate adjustments to maintain proper alignment, while a more open stance may require slight lengthening for stability. For instance, youth or female shooters with shorter builds generally benefit from an LOP of 12 to 13 inches to avoid overextension, whereas taller adult males may require 14 to 15 inches for comfortable shouldering.^[3]^[2] To verify fit, perform a dry-fire test by mounting an unloaded firearm to the shoulder in the intended shooting position. The elbow should naturally form a 90-degree angle without undue strain or torque on the shoulder, ensuring the buttstock contacts the body securely yet allows fluid movement.^[3]^[2] Customizing the LOP to within 0.5 inches of the personal body measurement promotes consistent cheek weld and reduces anticipatory tension.^[2]

Ergonomic Importance

Comfort and Recoil Management

A correct length of pull (LOP) enables the firearm's buttstock to fit naturally into the shooter's shoulder pocket, promoting a relaxed posture that minimizes muscle tension during aiming and firing.^[3] This alignment allows the shooter to maintain an upright stance without excessive forward lean, which occurs when the LOP is too long, forcing the body to compensate by stretching the arms and neck. Conversely, an LOP that is too short results in a cramped position, where the elbow flares outward and the shoulder hunches, increasing strain on the upper body muscles.^[15]^[16] In terms of recoil management, an optimal LOP positions the buttplate squarely against the shoulder, distributing the recoil force across a broader surface area and directing it straight back into the body rather than upward or sideways.^[3] This configuration reduces perceived recoil intensity, as the firearm recoils in line with the shooter's skeletal structure, lessening the jolt to the shoulder and cheek.^[15] Improper fit can exacerbate recoil effects. For instance, studies on shoulder-fired weapons with high recoil energy have reported soft tissue injuries like contusions in up to 93% of users after repeated exposure to recoil energies around 59 ft-lbs.^[17] Long-term mismatches in LOP contribute to health issues, including shoulder strain and repetitive stress injuries, as chronic awkward positioning amplifies the cumulative impact of recoil on the musculoskeletal system.^[17] For instance, ergonomic analyses from the early 2010s link recurrent rifle use to posterior shoulder instability, such as Bankart lesions, resulting from repeated counterforces against the anterior shoulder during firing.^[18] These injuries often manifest as pain and reduced mobility after prolonged training or hunting sessions.^[17] In practical applications, such as upland hunting with shotguns, an LOP under 13 inches enhances swing comfort for smaller-framed shooters, including women and youth, by allowing fluid mounting and movement through brush without binding or overextension.^[19] Models designed for these users, like youth variants with adjustable stocks from 12 to 13 inches, facilitate better recoil handling during extended walks and quick target acquisition on flushing birds.^[20]

Impact on Accuracy

Proper length of pull (LOP) is essential for achieving consistent mounting of the firearm, which directly influences cheek weld and sight alignment. A well-fitted LOP allows the shooter to establish a repeatable cheek-to-stock contact, ensuring the eye aligns precisely with the optic or sights without straining or shifting position between shots. This repeatability minimizes variations in point of impact (POI), as inconsistencies in head placement can otherwise cause the line of sight to deviate, leading to angular errors that manifest as lateral or vertical shifts on target. For instance, improper LOP contributing to variable cheek weld has been shown to produce POI shifts of 4–5 inches at 992 yards in long-range testing, underscoring the need for fit to maintain precision across multiple shots.^[21] Mismatched LOP can induce anticipation flinch, where the shooter subconsciously tenses or jerks in expectation of recoil, disrupting the shot and enlarging group sizes. A fitted LOP promotes a natural, relaxed hold, reducing this anticipatory response and allowing better focus on trigger squeeze and follow-through. In practical shooting scenarios, such as benchrest setups, adjusting to the correct LOP has been reported to yield noticeable improvements in grouping by enabling steadier control and less shooter-induced error, though exact percentages vary by individual and rifle setup. This enhancement in flinch mitigation supports tighter shot clusters, particularly under repeated firing conditions where fatigue might otherwise exacerbate inconsistencies.^[22]^[23] In prone or offhand positions, LOP significantly affects trigger control and overall stability during dynamic shooting. A properly adjusted LOP—typically shorter for offhand to center the rifle's weight over the torso—facilitates a squared stance and ergonomic wrist angle, preventing the shooting hand from being pulled off-axis during trigger pull. Excessively long LOP in these unsupported positions can lead to awkward extension, compromising follow-through and introducing torque that widens groups, especially in precision disciplines requiring rapid transitions. Adjusting LOP for position-specific needs, such as shortening it by 0.25–0.5 inches for offhand compared to prone, enhances control and reduces such disruptions.^[24]^[25] Many precision rifle shooters use LOPs around 13.5–14 inches to achieve sub-MOA accuracy. This range accommodates the ergonomic demands of competitive shooting, where adjustable stocks allow fine-tuning for both bench and field stages, contributing to consistent sub-1-inch groups at 100 yards. Shooters in events like F-Class and Precision Rifle Series often report sustained sub-MOA performance with this LOP, attributing it to optimized fit that supports reliable sight picture and minimal POI variation under varying conditions.^[3]

Adjustments and Variations

Modification Methods

One common method to shorten the length of pull involves cutting the butt end of the stock with a fine-tooth saw after removing the existing recoil pad, followed by filing the cut surface flat and sanding it smooth to prepare for refinishing or reattachment of a pad. This requires precise marking of the desired length—typically measured from the trigger—and wrapping the stock with masking tape to minimize splintering during the cut. Refinishing may include applying wood finish or bedding compound to restore aesthetics and protect the wood.^[26] To extend the length of pull, a recoil pad can be added or replaced, typically increasing it by 0.5 to 1 inch depending on the pad's thickness; installation involves grinding the pad to fit the stock's contour, securing it with retainer screws through pre-drilled holes, and applying epoxy adhesive for a permanent bond that withstands recoil forces. Thicker pads or spacers can be used for greater extension, with screws providing mechanical hold while epoxy ensures even distribution of stress.^[27] Replacement stocks offer a more comprehensive modification, allowing installation of aftermarket options designed for adjustability; for example, H-S Precision Pro-Series stocks for Remington 700 actions feature adjustable length of pull and include aluminum bedding blocks for improved accuracy. These stocks often can be swapped by removing the original stock via action screws, requiring no cutting of the firearm.^[28] Professional gunsmith services are preferred for modifications involving cutting or fitting, as they ensure precise alignment and finishing to maintain the firearm's balance and value, whereas DIY approaches carry risks such as uneven cuts that alter weight distribution and handling characteristics. Gunsmiths use specialized tools like jigs for straight cuts and professional sanders for smooth refinishing. Basic DIY recoil pad addition can be completed in under 30 minutes with materials costing less than $50, while a full stock replacement may take 1 to 2 hours and cost over $200 including the stock itself; professional shortening and pad fitting typically ranges from $100 to $150.^[29]^[30]

Standard Lengths by Firearm Type

Standard lengths of pull vary significantly by firearm type, reflecting design priorities such as handling, recoil absorption, and user ergonomics. For rifles, bolt-action hunting models typically feature an average length of pull between 13 and 13.5 inches to accommodate a broad range of shooters in field conditions.^[4] AR-15 platforms, optimized for tactical applications, commonly range from 13 to 14 inches, allowing for compact maneuverability while maintaining stability during rapid fire; adjustable stocks on these platforms often permit variations from 10.5 to 14 inches via telescoping mechanisms.^[31] Shotguns exhibit greater variation to suit specific shooting disciplines. Trap guns, designed for extended arm reach and smooth swings, generally have lengths of approximately 14.5 inches, promoting fluid target tracking.^[32] In contrast, youth shotgun models prioritize accessibility for smaller frames, with lengths averaging 11 to 12.5 inches to prevent overextension and enhance control.^[33] User-specific adaptations further influence these standards. Military configurations, such as the M4 carbine, adhere to approximately 13.75 inches in the extended position to balance portability and combat readiness across diverse personnel.^[34] For non-standard builds, women's and youth fits are often 1 to 2 inches shorter than standard adult lengths of 13 to 14 inches, reducing strain and improving mount consistency.^[3] Global manufacturing practices introduce additional nuances, particularly in sporting firearms. European models, including those from Beretta and Browning, favor lengths of 14.5 to 15 inches to align with regional anthropometric data and traditional stock designs.^[35]^[36]

References

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How do you determine the proper fit of your shotgun stock?
### Summary: Length of Pull for Shotgun Fit
[2]
How to Measure Length of Pull - H-S Precision
Aug 20, 2021 · To measure your current length of pull, the only items you will need are a tape measure and your stock. From the center of the trigger, measure to the back of ...
[3]
The Importance of Length of Pull | An Official Journal Of The NRA
Feb 11, 2025 · A proper length of pull ensures best posture, minimizes felt recoil and I feel it allows a shooter to perform their best.
[4]
Length of Pull: A Complete Guide for Fitting Your Rifle to Your Body
I've taken measurements from some of the leading stock and chassis manufacturers; 13 to 13.5 inches is the average factory length of pull. Many shooters will ...
[5]
[PDF] 2021-12176.pdf - Federal Register
Jun 9, 2021 · Length of Pull. Length of pull is a common measurement of firearms that describes the distance between the trigger and the center of the ...
[6]
27 CFR 478.11 -- Meaning of terms. - eCFR
(i) Whether the weapon has a weight or length consistent with the weight or length of similarly designed rifles;. (ii) Whether the weapon has a length of pull ...
[7]
What Is Length of Pull and Why Does It Matter? - The Shooter's Log
Jul 10, 2013 · The length of pull or LOP is the distance from the middle of the trigger to the end of the gun's buttstock. It is one of the most important aspects of a gun's ...
[8]
What Is Length Of Pull? - AmmoMan School of Guns Blog
Dec 31, 2021 · Simply put, the length of pull of a shotgun or a rifle is the distance from the trigger to the back of the buttplate at the end of the stock.Missing: definition - | Show results with:definition -
[9]
Back To Basics: Rifle Stock Components & Designs
Feb 15, 2017 · These stocks are also quite short by today's standards in length of pull because most people were shorter several hundred years ago than today.
[10]
Winchester Model 1873 | An Official Journal Of The NRA
Nov 4, 2013 · Stock: oil-stained walnut: length of pull, 13", drop at heel, 3"; drop at comb, 1¾". Overall Length: 39". Weight: 7 lbs., 4 ozs. MSRP: $1,300 ...<|separator|>
[11]
A History of Ergonomics in Firearm Design - Shooting Illustrated
Dec 2, 2019 · Lighter weight, slimmer rails, comfortable stock and easy access to controls…in other words, design ergonomics of the rifle were critical.”
[12]
[PDF] M14 Rifle History and Development - Miami Rifle & Pistol Club
Blanchard learned to shoot from his dad as a child. He shot smallbore rifle as a teenager and was a member of the Brigham. Young University Army ROTC Rifle Team ...
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Sporter Boyds Length Of Pull Gauge | Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks
Shop Boyds Gunstock Accessories for your gunstock needs from pillar bedding, gripping, screw sets, swivel loops, trigger guards, component sets.
[14]
Length of Pull Gauge - Graco Corporation
Innovate Your Firearm Experience with Graco · GRACOIL LENGTH OF PULL. GC15LP. MSRP: Was: Now: $309.95 · GRACOIL LENGTH OF PULL - BLACK. GC15LP-B MSRP: Was: Now: ...
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Length of Pull: What It Is and How to Measure It - Grayboe
### Step-by-Step Process for Measuring Length of Pull on a Firearm Stock
[16]
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003687012000245
[17]
The Science of Shotguns: Why Gun Fit Matters for Accuracy and ...
Dec 17, 2024 · Discover why proper shotgun fit is crucial for accuracy and comfort. Learn how Graco's customization tools fine-tune balance and alignment, ...
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Using human-centered design to improve the assault rifle
### Summary: Impact of Rifle Ergonomics on Muscle Tension, Posture, or Strain
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[PDF] Shoulder-Fired Weapons with High Recoil Energy - DTIC
May 3, 2004 · In addition to these reported injuries, two other published studies have reported nerve palsy as related to shoulder-fired weapons (49, 53).
[20]
Recurrent posterior shoulder instability after rifle shooting - PubMed
This article describes the case of a 27-year-old male soldier who presented with left shoulder pain and instability after rifle training.
[21]
Why Shotguns for Women Matter - Project Upland Magazine
Barrel length is typically 28 or 30 inches, with a length of pull around 13.9 inches. Women's shotguns are most commonly found in 12 or 20 gauge, though there ...
[22]
Youth Shotguns: Choosing a Gun for Little Hunters
Nov 12, 2020 · ... inch vent rib barrel and an adjustable 12- to 13-inch length of pull. That allows the gun to grow with the shooter. Chambered in 3-inch 20 ...
[23]
[PDF] Fitting the Long Range Rifle | Defensive Edge
Now it never occurred to Andy that his rifle lacked the proper length of pull and cheek weld. ... prone to confirm there is not variation in point of impact.Missing: accuracy | Show results with:accuracy
[24]
10 Tips For Rifle Accuracy - GUNS Magazine
10 Tips For Rifle Accuracy · 10. Match the bullet to the rifle · 9. Shoot a lighter caliber · 8. Use the correct length of pull for your body · 7. Adjust the scope ...
[25]
How can developing a flinch from shooting recoil-heavy rifles impact ...
Aug 7, 2025 · The first problem I had with that rifle is that the butt stock is too short - length of pull on it is 13.75″, and my LOP is 15″. The second ...What can I do to get rid of recoil-anticipation flinch when shooting my ...How can I improve my rifle accuracy? - QuoraMore results from www.quora.com
[26]
Length of Pull for Precision Rifles | Sniper's Hide Forum
Mar 9, 2017 · My question for you guys is: do you adhere to the "crook of the arm to trigger MINUS 1/4 inch" for your length of pull? ... For example, a person ...Length of Pull | Sniper's Hide ForumGunsmithing - Correct Length of Pull? | Sniper's Hide ForumMore results from www.snipershide.com
[27]
Improve Your Trigger Technique for Better Scores and Accuracy
Dec 22, 2022 · Gary Eliseo tubegun prone ... For stocks with adjustable Length of Pull you may want to set the LOP differently for bench shooting vs. prone or F- ...
[28]
Length of Pull ??? | Shooters' Forum
Apr 23, 2010 · Most rifles come standard with a 13.5 inch length of pull. This seems to be the "do all" for the vast majority, not exactly ideal.
[29]
Length of Pull (LOP) - How to Determine Best Fit | Shooters' Forum
Dec 18, 2018 · Zero333 said: I can shoot good with shorter than optimal length of pull, but I can NOT shoot well if the LOP is longer than optimal.
[30]
How to Shorten a Stock to Change Length of Pull | MidwayUSA
### Summary of Steps to Shorten a Stock to Change Length of Pull
[31]
Attaching a Recoil Pad - Rifle Stock
Even though epoxy is used as a bonding agent, retainer screws are employed to help secure the recoil pad to the stock. This is because epoxy does not ...
[32]
PST095 – Remington 700 BDL Short Action Rifle Stock - H-S Precision
It features a full length aluminum bedding block, dual front swivel studs, vertical grip with ambidextrous palm swell, adjustable length of pull, and an ...
[33]
Gunsmithing Services & Pricing - Simmons Gun Repair
Gunsmithing Services & Pricing ; PAD-SHORTEN STOCK AND RESET PAD, $135.00 ; PAD-WINCHESTER-INSTALL (Pad Only $67), $150.00 ; PARKERIZE ENTIRE GUN, $400.00.
[34]
full list of shotgun gunsmithing pricing
Adjustable comb installed (most guns), $425.00, GAC. Stock Bending, $195.00, GBEND. Adjustable recoil pad plate (most guns and includes Kick-Eez pad), $400.00.
[35]
What Is Length of Pull on an AR-15? - Wing Tactical
Mar 9, 2022 · The average length of pull for a standard AR-15 is around 13 inches. An adjustable stock works well for shooters whose ideal length of pull doesn't meet this ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[36]
Length of pull - Trapshooters Forum
Jan 27, 2019 · Most off-the-shelf shotguns come with a LOP between 14 inches to 14-3/4 inches. This may be fine for most users, but a custom...Length of pull for a 6 foot shooter? - Trapshooters ForumHOW TO MEASURE LENGTH OF PULL (LOP) TUTORIALMore results from www.trapshooters.com
[37]
GunMag 101: Length of Pull - The Mag Life
Aug 29, 2023 · Measure the space between the recoil pad of your rifle and the crease of your elbow. Leaving approximately a ½-inch gap, the remaining length is ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[38]
Length of pull on adjustable AR stock | Northwest Firearms
Dec 31, 2017 · It is limited to just over 600 meters range due to the shorter elevation screw but that's fine as Highpower is not shot past 600 yards anyway.
[39]
Correct length of pull for a female? - TheGunRack
Aug 11, 2016 · The length of pull on most shotguns is between 13 and 14 inches. Many youth model shotguns work well for women and several of the gun ...
[40]
Gun Fit - Pete Blakeley
Most American guns come with a standard length of pull of about 14 ¼ to 14 ½ inches. European guns are routinely slightly longer than this, I have no idea why.
[41]
Clay Target Nation September 2025: REVIEWED: BERETTA 688
Aug 19, 2025 · The butt comes with Beretta's 10mm Microcore recoil pad in place. Beretta also offers 15mm and 20mm pads separately if the gun's 14.75-inch ...