The short answer regarding why LOP is longer on doubles is "because it can be". I once read a stockmaker assert that LOP is shorter on bolt guns because a longer one makes scope use all but impossible due to a lack of eye relief. Makes a bit of sense. Also, one definitely wants a longer LOP on heavy recoiling rifles like doubles to keep from being bopped in the nose.

What makes this discussion really interesting is that it's a fact that people were smaller 50-100 years ago (ever look at old photos or try to buy WWI or WWII surplus clothing?) yet we still see 14-15" LOP doubles from that era. It's quite possible that early African hunters would be amazed that today's guys are choosing rifles stocked so SHORT at 14.5".

JMHO,

John