Where you put your hand on the pistol grip determines the real length of the stock. Unfortunately, this is very hard to measure, so people continue to use the old trigger to butt length. The type of pistol grip will also have an influence on technical stock length.
Full Answer
How to measure the length of pull on a rifle stock?
Now, using a tape or similar device, measure from the inside of the elbow, just below the bicep, straight down the forearm to the middle of the pad on your trigger finger. You now have the measurement for your length of pull on a rifle stock.
How to measure a gun for a proper stock trim?
Take your measurements with an unloaded gun, since your finger will be on the trigger. Measure from the trigger to the back of the recoil pad or butt to determine whether you should trim the stock or get it replaced.
How do I know what size stock to wear?
The more you crawl your stock, the longer a stock you will need. The more erect you carry your head, the shorter stock will suffice. For example: I am 6’1″ and wear a 17/35 shirt. My neck is of average length, but my cheek bones are slightly higher than normal.
Can you change the length of the stock on a pistol?
Yes, moving the trigger fore and aft will change the numerical stock length, but not the practical one. Where you put your hand on the pistol grip determines the real length of the stock. Unfortunately, this is very hard to measure, so people continue to use the old trigger to butt length.

How long should your AR stock be?
0:002:13Tactical Tip of the Day: Proper Buttstock Length - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFrom the crook of my arm.MoreFrom the crook of my arm.
How is the length of stock measured?
0:091:51Quick Tip: Measuring Length of Pull - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can measure with the tape measure. Just put the hook on the trigger. And about halfway up youMoreYou can measure with the tape measure. Just put the hook on the trigger. And about halfway up you want the center of the pad. This one has 14 inches.
What is the standard stock length?
13.5 inchesSELECTING YOUR PRO-SERIES STOCK For brands such as Remington, Howa, Weatherby, and more, shooters are able to select from different models, styles, grips, and of course — length of pull. With a standard stock length of 13.5 inches, Pro-Series stocks can be shortened to 12.5 inches or extended to 14.5 inches.
What is the correct length of pull for a rifle?
Many rifles and shotguns are manufactured with a standard length of pull assumed to fit most shooters. This is often approximately 13.5 in (34 cm) for rifles and about 2 cm (0.8 in) longer for shotguns.
What is the minimum barrel length for a rifle?
16 inchExamples of minimum length requirements in federal law [ATF-NFA] include: 16 inch barrel length for rifles, 18 inch barrel length for shotguns, and 26 inch overall length for both rifles and shotguns.
How do you know if a shotgun fits you?
0:243:33How to Tell if Your Shotgun Fits Presented by Larry PotterfieldYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe eye should be in perfect alignment down the center of the rib if it isn't your pattern won't beMoreThe eye should be in perfect alignment down the center of the rib if it isn't your pattern won't be where you're looking most modern shotguns are designed to fit average shooters.
What is drop at heel?
Drop at Heel: extent of vertical offset between the top of the barrels (rib) and the heel of the butt-stock. Cast: extent of offset left (cast on) or right (cast off) between the midline of the barrels and the center of the butt.
What is a short length of pull?
There should be a one to one and half inch gap or about two finger widths of space between your nose and thumb. If there is more space than that, the length of pull is too long. If there is less space, the length of pull is too short.
What is length of pull AR 15?
The average length of pull for a standard AR-15 is around 13 inches. An adjustable stock works well for shooters whose ideal length of pull doesn't meet this average measurement. Length of pull can also vary based on the clothes you're wearing.
How long is an A2 stock?
10.8" longThe A2 length stock is 10.8" long and weighs 10.4oz.
What stock does Magpul use?
Magpul offers versions of the MOE fixed stock for A1, A2 and Carbine configurations. It’ll give you additional sling loop and quick attach options over the original along with a rubber buttpad and internal storage compartment.
What is the difference between A1 and A2?
The basic difference is that they are different lengths for different sized shooters and/or use from different positions. If you’re using an A2 rifle stock, then you add an extension to the A1 buffer tube to make it work.
What are the parts of an AR stock?
There are four “classes” of stocks for AR-type rifles, so you need to make sure that the stock mounting parts (receiver extension tube, recoil spring, and buffer) are compatible with the butt stock you want to use.
What do I need to mount a butt stock?
To mount the stock, you’ll need to make sure you have the receiver extension (buffer) tube, buffer, recoil spring, receiver plate and locking ring installed. Read on to make sure that these parts, sometimes known as the mounting kit, are compatible with your butt stock of choice.
Is VLTOR a good butt stock?
Yes, VLTOR gets another entry on the list, as will Magpul in a second. Both of these companies make some excellent butt stock options. I love a couple of things about the IMOD. First, the waterproof battery compartments (right and left sides) make smooth and wide cheek weld areas.
Do AR pistols need buffer tubes?
Remember at the beginning when we talked about the four types of buffer tubes and stock sizes? Well, if you’re building a pistol, add to the list. A classic AR pistol also needs a buffer tube to make it work, and you’ll find variances there too.
Is the pistol grip good?
Technically, it eliminates that evil pistol grip that seems to upset so many for no good reason. State laws are changing, so be sure to check with your local situation to see if this is a viable option for you.
