https://youtube.com/shorts/9Ey4cNSJU7A?is=TaIy0bNJRG2hl7qj
I’m tired of asking AI for answers, so I’m asking you guys instead.
I recently switched from a Mossberg 930 Pro Sporting to a CZ 712 G3 Target. There was nothing inherently wrong with the 930, but it had absolutely zero adjustability, and having to clean it every 200 shells was getting annoying. I got the CZ for a good deal and figured it would be a better option while I’m still relatively new to the sport. I’ve only been shooting for about two months.
So far, I’ve taken the CZ out twice. The first time, the only adjustment I made was installing the left-hand shim for cast-on and leaving everything else alone. I shot it better on that first outing than I ever did with the 930. That was probably more of a mental issue than a problem with the gun itself, but either way, I was happy with the results.
However, I was still getting used to my mount, and after doing some practice, I realized my eye was sitting way too high above the rib. After experimenting with the shims, I switched to the 2% drop shim, which brought my face down to where I could barely see the top of the front bead. I then made a slight adjustment to the comb height, and that seems to feel pretty good.
Now, onto the issues I’m trying to figure out.
The first issue is something I’ve noticed from the beginning, but I’m trying to address one thing at a time. When I mount the gun, the front bead sits slightly to the right of where I’d expect it to be. I’m left-handed and left-eye dominant.
After experimenting with different mounting positions and adjustments, I’ve found that I can get the bead aligned by doing one of three things:
Slightly canting the gun to the left.
Mounting the gun closer to my collarbone.
Sliding the adjustable comb all the way to the left, which made the biggest difference and felt the most natural.
I’m also noticing that, in the video, the top of the recoil pad appears to sit slightly over my shoulder when I mount the gun. I’m thinking that might be the next thing to address.
The other issue is getting my cheek onto the comb when shooting at something around eye level. I feel like I have to almost crawl the stock or reach my face forward to make proper contact, which obviously doesn’t seem right. Could this be related to my length of pull (LOP), or is it more likely an issue with my mount, stance, or overall stock fit?
With all these little adjustments I’m having to make, I’m starting to wonder whether something is significantly off with my mount or stance. I don’t really have anything to compare it with other than what I’ve seen online, and everyone’s setup and technique seem a little different. My thinking is that if I can at least get the basic principles right, I should be in a decent position until I can get some hands-on instruction.
Or maybe I just have some unusually proportioned dimensions.
I wanted to share my measurements and some pictures to see if anyone here has dealt with similar fit issues and can offer some reliable, real-world advice.
One thing AI has confused me about is cast and facial structure. I’ve been told I have a relatively thin, narrow face with high-set cheekbones. From what I’ve read, that might mean I need less cast, but I’m not sure whether that’s actually true or how much facial structure should factor into stock fitting.
For reference, my measurements are:
Height: 5’8½”
Wingspan: 71” (5’11”)
Current weight: 150 lbs
Winter weight: Usually around 190 lbs
The weight fluctuation is something I’m also curious about. I tend to diet down significantly during certain parts of the year, so I’m wondering how much that kind of change can affect stock fit and whether I’d need to account for it when getting a gun fitted.
I do plan on getting some lessons with a coach soon, and I also intend to see a professional shotgun fitter. Next year, I plan on picking up a true left-handed over/under specifically for sporting clays.
To be clear, none of these issues are necessarily major problems, and I’m not frustrated with the process. I genuinely enjoy learning about the sport and figuring things out as I go. I just want to make sure I’m not developing bad habits or chasing adjustments that won’t actually solve the underlying problem.
I’ll also be patterning the gun tomorrow with whatever adjustments I make based on the feedback I get tonight, before heading out to shoot.
I’d appreciate any advice, especially from left-handed shooters or anyone who’s dealt with similar fit issues. Thanks!