The AR-15 platform's popularity stems from its modularity and adaptability. One crucial aspect often overlooked is length of pull (LOP). Getting the LOP right significantly impacts shooting comfort, accuracy, and overall shooting experience. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about AR-15 length of pull, helping you find the perfect fit for your rifle and shooting style. We'll cover the importance of proper LOP, how to measure it, adjustment options, and factors influencing your ideal LOP.
Understanding AR-15 Length of Pull
Length of pull refers to the distance between the trigger and the rear of the stock. It's measured in inches from the trigger face to the back of the buttstock. A poorly chosen LOP can lead to several problems, including:
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Poor Shoulder Alignment: An improperly sized stock can result in the rifle being mounted too far forward or backward on your shoulder. This negatively affects your cheek weld, sight picture, and overall shooting stability.
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Reduced Accuracy: An incorrect LOP can force you to compensate for an uncomfortable or unstable shooting position. This compensation often manifests as flinching or inconsistent trigger pulls, leading to reduced accuracy.
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Discomfort and Fatigue: Shooting an AR-15 with an inappropriate LOP can cause discomfort, shoulder strain, and fatigue, particularly during extended shooting sessions.
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Inefficient recoil management: The correct LOP helps properly align the rifle's recoil with your body, making recoil management easier and more efficient.
Key takeaway: The correct AR-15 length of pull is crucial for optimal comfort, accuracy, and efficient recoil management.
Measuring Your Current AR-15 Length of Pull
Before making any adjustments or purchasing a new stock, accurately measure your current AR-15's length of pull. Here's how:
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Safety First: Ensure the firearm is unloaded and clear of ammunition.
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Proper Mounting: Mount the rifle as if you were about to shoot, ensuring a natural and comfortable shoulder position.
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Measurement: Use a ruler or tape measure to determine the distance between the trigger face and the back of the buttstock where it meets your shoulder.
Ideal AR-15 Length of Pull: Finding Your Sweet Spot
The ideal AR-15 length of pull varies depending on individual factors such as:
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Body size and build: Taller shooters often require a longer LOP, while shorter shooters may prefer a shorter one.
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Shooting style: Prone shooting might necessitate a different LOP than standing shooting.
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Clothing: Bulkier clothing can influence your LOP needs.
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Personal preference: Ultimately, what feels comfortable and allows for consistent, accurate shooting is most important.
While there's no universally perfect length, a good starting point is between 13 and 14.5 inches. However, this is simply a guideline; experimenting to find what feels most comfortable for you is crucial.
Adjusting Your AR-15 Length of Pull
There are several ways to adjust your AR-15's length of pull:
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Adjustable Stocks: Many AR-15 stocks offer adjustable length of pull features, allowing you to fine-tune the LOP to your preferences. These adjustments are often made via a simple lever or button.
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Replacing the Stock: If your current stock doesn't offer adjustability, or the adjustment range isn't sufficient, replacing it with a stock that has the desired LOP is a viable option. A wide variety of stocks are available with different LOP options.
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Adding spacers: Some stocks allow the addition of spacers to increase the length of pull.
Case Study: Comparing Different AR-15 Stocks
Let's consider two popular AR-15 stocks to illustrate the impact of LOP:
| Stock Type | Manufacturer | Typical LOP Range (inches) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magpul CTR | Magpul | 13.5-14.5 | Adjustable, rubber buttpad, durable |
| Magpul MOE Carbine | Magpul | 13.0 | Non-adjustable, comfortable, affordable |
As shown, even within the Magpul stock line alone, there are variations in LOP. The CTR offers adjustability, making it suitable for a wider range of shooters, while the MOE Carbine offers a fixed LOP that's comfortable for many.
Conclusion: The Importance of a Proper AR-15 Length of Pull
Choosing the correct AR-15 length of pull is often overlooked but profoundly impacts your shooting experience. By understanding your body type, shooting style, and adjusting your rifle accordingly, you can improve accuracy, comfort, and overall shooting performance. Don't underestimate the significance of this seemingly small detail—it's a crucial element for maximizing your shooting potential. Remember to always prioritize safety and handle your firearm responsibly.