Standard vs. Custom LOP??

[redneckd1]

If standard length of pull (LOP) is 14.5 inches, how do you measure for 'your own LOP', if there is really such a thing. Is it like a draw length for bows? And does it make a significant difference in accuracy?
Thx,
 R

[gunnut69]

It doesn't effect the intrinsic accuracy of a rifle but will affect the rifle/man interface and that is part and parcel of the useability of the rifle.  This is the useable accuracy of a rifle.  A correctly fitted rifle, in a very general sense, will allow the shooters trigger hand elbow to be at a 90 degree angle with the hand on the grip(in a firing position) and the butt to the shoulder.  This is really quite general and many things can alter this length, clothing, butt stock pitch, caster/chamber, cast off, just to name a few.  In an ordinary stock a measurement allowing that angle on the shooters strong side arm will be a good measurement.  if the rifle is used in colder weather tighten the angle up and bit and allow a shorter tock for the use of heavier clothing.

[Judson]

Since this is what I do for a living I have to jump in on this one.    The accuracy of a rifle has nothing to do with the length of pull, nor for that matter do any of the stock dimensions.    However stock dimensions do make a big difference as to how well you can shoot the rifle fast.    
  LOP is measured from the center of the trigger to the center of the butt plate when looking at the rifle in profile.    What your physical measurement as to length of pull has to be tempered with what shooting habits you have developed over the years from adapting to factory rifles.
For example a tall person with a long length of pull is so used to having to pull a factory stocked rifle into his shoulder that a stock using just his physical measurements will most times feel too long and catch on their arm pit when they shoulder the gun.    A person with a short length of pull will usually have the reverse situation.
    For these reasons if at all possible I want to see my customer handle several different length rifles or use a try gun before I design a custom stock for them.    Good fit involves other measurements such as cast off or cast on for a left handed shooter, drop, which should be in most cases as little as possible in order to minimize muzzle jump.   circumference of the grip, shape of the cheek piece, pitch and many other factors all enter in to proper stock design.
    With a properly fitted rifle you will find it points where you are looking when you shoulder it.   Hang steady when brought up fast and have minimal jump and perceived recoil when fired.    In reality, a custom rifle should be as individualized as you are!

[Dave in WV]

I believe the "standard" LOP is 13.5" in the US.
I'm 5' 10" @ 220 lbs and a 13" LOP is right for me with hunting clothing on. I can shoulder my rifles faster and shoot better off hand better with the shorter LOP.