Understanding Length of Pull (LOP)
If you've ever felt like your rifle is working against you and putting yourself in an unnatural position, you may not be far from the truth. There are many elements to consider when it comes to rifle marksmanship and long-range shooting, but one that often gets overlooked is the length of pull (LOP). You can't afford to ignore this crucial step if you want to reach peak performance with your rifle, particularly in recoil management, accuracy, and overall comfort.
The LOP of your rifle is dependent on the buttstock, which means you can and should adjust it to achieve the right fit for your body. Specifically, the measurement for a rifle's length of pull is from the center of the recoil pad to the center of the trigger shoe. The average LOP is just over 13 inches if you're looking at the most popular factory rifle brands. The average fit is just that, average, so making fine-tune adjustments to fit your body will further excel your shooting ability. We'll discuss the measurements further below, including how to measure and compare your body's correct length of pull to that of your rifle.
Questions about fitting your XLR chassis to your specific build? Give our team a call at 970-241-1807 or contact us online here.
Why Measuring LOP Matters
Sometimes, a rifle can just feel wrong. You may not know why exactly, and it's tempting to think it will get more comfortable with time, but it could be as simple as adjusting the length of pull. With a properly fitting LOP, you will improve your bolt manipulation, rifle fit, and recoil control.
For example, with the proper fit, you'll be able to pull, push and fire the next round without sacrificing your support position. To test and confirm your length of pull is appropriate for your arm length, lie down in the prone position and run the bolt a few different times. Your bicep should not feel crunched when you pull the bolt back and your elbow should not leave the ground when you push the bolt forward.
Proper LOP will also make it easier and more comfortable to get your eye into position behind the scope and improve your sight picture. Again, this will undoubtedly help with accuracy and consistency with follow-up shots.
Recoil and muzzle rise are also greatly affected by the length of pull. Excessive muzzle rise may be the product of a short length of pull. Addressing the length of pull will improve your comfort and recovery between shots so you can get back on target quicker.
Tools and Materials Needed
Now that we've gone over some of the ways fitted LOP can help, it's time for you to find out your own personal measurements. You don't need anything too fancy; just a simple ruler and/or tape measure should do the trick.
Depending on your particular rifle stock, it may come with LOP markings and/or adjustment points that are ready to use. Even so, we recommend getting your own measurement first because it's still handy to know. For example, it will help if you ever want to order a custom stock or buy secondhand products without being able to physically try them first.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Measure LOP
You can measure a rifle's LOP and determine whether it's a proper fit by yourself with a tape measure, but it'll be easier and more accurate with the help of a buddy. Of course, before using any firearm for these measurements, you must first ensure it's unloaded and safe. Now, we're ready to begin by following the steps outlined below.
Step 1: Make a 90-degree angle with your arm.
Step 2: While your arm is in this position, curl your finger like you are pulling the trigger on a rifle.
Step 3: Measure from the pad of your trigger finger to the inside crease of your elbow.
Step 4: Confirm this measurement is comfortable by running the bolt (as described in the previous paragraph). Test your LOP in multiple different positions to confirm it will not only work while shooting prone, but also while shooting off a tripod, standing, and kneeling. Once you have the length of pull set properly, you can mount your scope to match your length of pull.
Interpreting Your LOP Measurement
While the factory standard average LOP is around 13 to 13.5 inches is set to fit fairly closely for most people, you shouldn't assume it's right for you. Your own correct LOP is largely based on your height and arm length. If you're much over 6 feet, your length of pull could be an inch or more above the average. It will also vary depending on clothing. For example, wearing a heavy coat while shooting in cold environments will change the measurement.
Adjustable recoil pads, custom stocks and spacers can help make the necessary adjustments to the LOP. Using these, you'll be able to quickly make the necessary adjustments on the fly without disassembling the rifle. For example, this comes in handy for people who'll be shooting in different environments, wearing a variety of clothing. Additionally, one firearm can be adjusted for the correct stock length to suit multiple shooters on trips where only one or a few rifles are shared.
Fine-Tuning Your Rifle Fit for Optimal Performance
Adjusting the length of pull also influences your cast and comb height. These factors determine how you shoulder the rifle and align your face with the optic to achieve a clear sight picture. Any significant alterations may cause difficulty in hitting or even seeing your target. Measurements such as drop at the comb vs. drop at the heel may also come into play. Due to the possible conflicts between these and other factors, it's recommended you talk to a professional gunsmith for fitment help with stocks that are not easily adjustable.
XLR Industries is ready to assist shooters of any experience level who want adjustable, high-quality rifle components and accessories that are user-adjustable. For example, the XLR Rifle Chassis Systems provide much greater versatility than standard gear, giving you personalized performance without a gunsmith. Popular accessories include the TR-2 Buttstock, which is an adjustable stock with a LOP range of 12 to 15 inches, as well as flat-top AR-style grips, folding stock, and sling adapters.
Elevate Your Shooting Experience With Proper Rifle Fit
Elevate Your Shooting Experience with XLR
Finding your proper LOP is a foundational step in rifle setup. It is the difference between feeling cramped and having a rifle that feels like an extension of your body.
XLR Industries provides high-quality, user-adjustable components that eliminate the need for a gunsmith. Our chassis systems and buttstocks, such as the TR-2 (with a 12 to 15 inch range), allow for personalized performance that adapts to your style. You can also explore our full line of precision rifle accessories to further customize your setup for maximum comfort and repeatability.
Ready to upgrade to a fully adjustable system? Call the experts at XLR Industries at 970-241-1807 or visit our Contact Page to find the perfect fit for your rifle.