How to measure correct length of your rifle stock

[deadon]

I was taught 40 years ago to measure from the inside bend of my elbow to my trigger finger bent at a 90 degree angle. Is that still the best way to measure? I believe ozark said a few week ago that his was 12 and ?? inches. Measuring that way mine is 13 1/2 inches.

[Jon]

I would like to see more feed back on this Confused minds would like an answer.
Jon

[ozark]

13-5 Inches is constidered standard and actuall does fit many people without change. But commons sense tells you that one size cannot fit all. That 13.5 Inch measurement is referred to as length of pull and measured as deadon described above. If you are wide shouldered, narrow shoulders, have arms longer or shorter than average you would probably need a different from standard length of pull. People with long necks, short necks, or other body measurements different from standard then a change would no doubt help you. Adding a recoil pad changes the pull length unless it is the same diameter as the original.
Then we have the drop of the stock, any cheek pad build up and height of the sights or scope to contend with. I am awar that this isn't providing what you need personally. What you need is to have a competent gunsmith take measurements and then alter your stocks if needed to fit. Another method is to luck out and find a rifle or shotgun that fits you perfectly and us it to take all measurements from. My modle was a 16 ga. Mossberg bolt action. When I threw that one up I hit without even making a good effort. I took every measurement from it except scope highth and worked from there. I am sure someone here can provide a better description on how to customize a stock to fit the individual that I have or can. Hopefully they will step forward and educate us all.

[mountainam]

Ozark is correct about the many factors that need be considered. I used to shoot ATA competition and stock fit was critical for the load to shoot where you were looking. I follow those same guidelines when setting up a rifle stock. I don't change much on my 700's that I use while groundhog hunting in shirt sleeves during the Summer because there are no snap shots. You take your time using a bipod for the long range stuff. For cold weather deer hunting I shorten my stocks on my 700 ML's for quick shouldering in my thick winter coats. The youth length stocks work great. Having a stock that catches under your armpit is no good. That extra re-shouldering can cost you the shot.