Ask The Instructor: Gun Adjustment?

Question:  I think my gun needs some adjustments to fit correctly. I don’t need a set of measurements because I’m not ordering a new stock. I just want my current gun to fit. What do I do?

Answer: “Re-stocking” a shotgun is not always necessary nor affordable. So, let’s discuss the most common types of gunfitting adjustments, short of re-stocking your shotgun. Perhaps the easiest adjustment to make is to length-of-pull, which is the dimension measured from the trigger to the butt. Adding length is as easy as adding an off the shelf butt-pad extender or, for a more permanent fix, having a gunsmith or stock maker add a thicker butt pad or spacer. While shortening length-of-pull most often requires the services of a gunsmith or stock maker, the cost is usually under $200. There are also a number of instructors out there that have the necessary tools and expertise to cut down a stock and replace the butt pad of your gun.

Pitch is another dimension of gunfit which can be adjusted on a “field expedient” basis, or by a qualified stock maker or gunfitter for a more permanent solution. For a field expedient fix, back off the top screw affixing the top of your butt pad to the stock, insert common washers to achieve the desired angle, and replace the screw by threading it through the center of the washers. It’s rare that a gun needs less pitch but, if your does, insert the washers at the bottom of the butt pad instead of the top. If you need a bit more comb height (i.e., your gun has too much drop-at-comb), you will need to heighten your comb. Field expedient solutions include the Beartooth Comb Riser, Wrapid Comb, and the ISIS Comb Riser (Leather). I often recommend that instructors carry moleskin in their kit bags for those occasions when a student requires additional comb height. Of course, an adjustable comb is the ideal solution if your gun needs more cast-on, cast off or additional comb height. The installation of an adjustable comb is always best done by someone with the right expertise and tools. Avoid making any permanent adjustments to your shotgun without consulting with a qualified and experienced gunfitter.