Determining the correct length of pull (LOP) on a shotgun is essential for comfort, control, and accuracy, yet not everyone can or wants to measure it from a traditional shooting stance. This list covers practical, reliable methods to measure shotgun LOP without assuming a full firing position, perfect for new shooters, gunsmiths, or anyone customizing their firearm fit.
1. Measure From the Trigger to the Rear of the Stock
This is the most straightforward method: use a tape measure or ruler to measure the distance from the trigger’s center to the end of the buttstock. This measurement directly represents the shotgun’s length of pull. It’s useful because it requires no physical positioning—just the firearm itself—and helps compare existing guns or plan modifications.
2. Use Your Arm Length as a Proxy
Measure from the middle of your chest (sternum) to the tip of your middle finger with your arm extended as if reaching forward. This length approximates the ideal LOP, ensuring the shotgun fits your natural reach without overextension. It’s a helpful starting point when you can’t hold the gun in shooting position but want a custom fit.
3. Measure From the Center of the Rear Sight to the Trigger
For shotguns with a rear sight or bead, measuring from the bead or rear sight to the trigger can help approximate LOP relative to your eye position. While less common than trigger-to-stock measurement, this helps when considering sight alignment and overall fit without raising the gun.
4. Use a Length of String or Flexible Tape
Wrap a piece of string or flexible tape measure around your chest at the sternum and extend it to the tip of your middle finger, then measure the string length. This method offers a non-technical way to estimate your arm reach, which correlates to LOP, and is easy to perform without specialized tools or a shooting stance.
5. Compare With a Known Comfortable Shotgun
If you already own or have access to a shotgun that fits well, measure its length of pull as a reference. This comparison method can be done without shooting stance by simply measuring trigger to buttstock length and using that as a benchmark for new guns or stock adjustments.
6. Use a Stock Measuring Gauge or Template
Some gunsmiths and manufacturers provide length of pull gauges or templates that you can hold up to your arm or the gun to estimate fit. These tools avoid the need for a shooting stance by providing a physical reference for comfortable reach, especially useful for custom stock fitting.
7. Measure Your Hand Span and Forearm Length
Although indirect, measuring your hand span (from base of palm to fingertip) plus forearm length can help estimate how far you can comfortably reach. Adding these together provides a baseline for LOP, useful when you cannot replicate a shooting position but want to customize your shotgun ergonomics.
8. Use a Wall and Shoulder as a Reference Point
Stand with your back and shoulder against a wall and extend your arm forward at a natural angle. Mark where your middle finger lands on the wall and measure the distance from your shoulder to that mark. This measurement approximates your natural reach and can guide shotgun LOP without holding the gun.
9. Measure From the Elbow to the Trigger
Place your arm at your side bent at 90 degrees, then measure from the elbow crease to where the trigger would naturally fall in your hand. This method estimates the needed LOP based on your arm length and grip position, bypassing the need for a full shooting stance.
10. Record Your Existing Shotgun’s Length of Pull Using a Caliper
Using a caliper to measure with precision from the trigger face to the end of the stock butt provides an exact LOP measurement. This method is more accurate than tape measures and can be done without shooting stance, making it ideal for gunsmiths or serious enthusiasts fine-tuning their fit.
How to Choose
When picking a method to measure shotgun length of pull without a shooting stance, accuracy and ease of execution matter most. Measuring directly from the trigger to the buttstock is the most reliable and repeatable since it uses the gun itself. However, if you don’t have the gun handy or want a personalized fit, measuring your arm length or using a wall reference offers a good estimate. Tools like length of pull gauges or calipers improve precision but require additional equipment. Ultimately, choose a method that balances convenience with the level of accuracy you desire, and always confirm fit by dry mounting or handling the shotgun before shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal length of pull for a shotgun?
The ideal LOP usually ranges between 13.5 and 14.5 inches for most adults but varies based on arm length and shooting style. Proper fit ensures comfortable reach without overextending your arms.
Can I adjust the length of pull on my shotgun?
Yes, many shotguns allow LOP adjustments via recoil pads, spacers, or custom stocks. Consult a gunsmith to ensure safe and proper modifications.
Why shouldn’t I rely solely on measuring with my shooting stance?
Shooting stance measurements can be inconsistent due to posture variations and fatigue. Measuring without stance offers a consistent baseline, especially useful for initial fitting or stock alterations.
Is it necessary to measure the length of pull for youth shooters?
Absolutely. Youth shooters often require shorter LOPs to ensure they can comfortably and safely control the shotgun, improving accuracy and reducing fatigue.
Does shotgun length of pull affect recoil?
Yes, a proper LOP helps distribute recoil more evenly into the shoulder, reducing felt recoil and improving control during follow-up shots.
Can I use a rifle’s length of pull measurement for a shotgun?
Not reliably. Rifles and shotguns have different ergonomics and shooting positions, so measuring shotgun-specific LOP is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Measuring shotgun length of pull without a shooting stance is both practical and effective when done carefully. Whether using direct trigger-to-stock measurements or arm length proxies, these methods provide solid starting points for ensuring your shotgun fits comfortably and performs well. Taking the time to measure properly can improve your shooting experience, reduce fatigue, and enhance safety. Always verify fit with the actual firearm before committing to modifications or purchases.
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