This is a good discussion. Skidrow's suggestion must be right, because it works for me (LOL). Not so well for knuckle draggers, I guess.
Even 1/4" of difference can be quite noticeable. I modify many of my guns by adding one of the different sizes of Pachmyer Decelerator pads, since I find most factory stocks a bit short for me. I don't cut the wood, and I save the original pad so the gun can be returned to original, if so desired.
One thing for sure, a stock that is 1/4" too short is much more comfortable than a stock that is 1/4" too long.
Another trick that makes a short stock more comfortable to use, is to just grasp the forend further out with your offside hand than you normally do.
It sounds silly, but it works.
