[QuickDraw]

Went shooting this past weekend.Brought along my Marlin
30/30.A freind gave it to me about 15 years ago for helping
him work on his house.In that time,I've probably put about
10 rounds through the barrel.After firing a couple rounds,
I realized the gun is too "short" for me.I'm 6'2"and have
a pretty long reach,so it was very uncomfortable to shoot.
How does one "lengthen"a rifle?;thick buttpads,new stock?
Its a nice rifle,brand new looking,I'd really like to become
proficient at shooting it,but not if I have to "scrunch" up to
do it.Thanks in advance.

QuickDraw

[Art Eatman]

I often have a similar problem, given my 35" sleeve size...

I've found the easiest way to measure for a proper length of pull is to hold the rifle with your shooting hand and that arm bent at the elbow. Check the clearance between the buttpad and the bottom of your bicep. Anything over about 1/4" is Too Much.

Pachmyr makes a fairly thick pad, and also spacers to help lengthen the stock even more. Aside from the ususal screwdriver, it takes a 1" or 2" belt-sander to do a proper job of fitting. (Tape the back of the stock to prevent "hickeys".)

Always remember that the thickness of your clothing will affect "proper" length. A "summertime" rifle might hang up when you go for a snapshot in winter. :)

Art

[scotjute]

Let me reinforce what Art is saying about summer/winter. I had Swedish Mauser sporterized with laminated stock in summer, perfect fit. But when I went hunting with gun, the stock is a tad too long when I wear a jacket. Its annoying enough that I'll have to have it readjusted.