It works for some. I just can’t do it with my feet.

I agree, but in my opinion figure out your Brannock first. Then if a maker has sizing guidance, compare it to that or crowd source it a bit.

Because let’s be real, sometimes these Stockists say go a full size down and for most people that’s just flat out wrong.

If it’s a little back from there, across the widest part of the foot then yes, you can get a reasonable amount of stretch there using a boot stretcher - I’ve done so plenty of times.

Others might say different, but you’re not really stretching the toe box in any meaningful way. That’s structured leather up front, not like the shaft you can loosen up a bit. If you actually need more room, you’re talking re-lasting, and that’s not cheap.

If it’s tight in the toe box, it’s usually one of two things. Boot’s too short, or your foot’s just wider with more toe splay than that last allows. That Lofgren combat last isn’t exactly forgiving up front, so if it’s already bothering you, it’s probably not gonna “break in” the way you’re hoping.