When you fire a shotgun or rifle, the explosion in the shell or cartridge also produces a reaction called a recoil. Basically, the gun butt slams into your shoulder. For beginners it can be very painful, and even experienced shooters often get some soreness.
The solution is a recoil pad, which absorbs much of the impact. We’ve been checking out the latest models, and we’ve chosen a few favorites. Top pick is the LimbSaver Airtech Recoil Pad. It provides not just physical protection but reduces muzzle jump after each shot thus helping with rapid acquisition of subsequent targets.
What to know before you buy a recoil pad
The key decisions in choosing a recoil pad are the type of fit and whether it has a significant impact on your length of pull (the distance from the butt of your weapon to the trigger or, in other words, your reach).
Slip-on recoil pads are perhaps the most popular because they’re easy to put on and take off. Some are fairly rigid rubber compounds. Others are combinations of neoprene and lycra that are elasticated. The latter will stretch to fit a wider variety of firearms but may be less durable.
The downside of slip-on recoil pads is that fit isn’t always great. If they move about during firing, they will still absorb the shock, but you can get friction injuries instead. Having one fall off in the field isn’t a lot of fun either!
Screw-on recoil pads fix permanently to the butt of your rifle with two screws. Drilling of the butt is necessary to achieve this — and not all shooters are keen on doing that. Generally these are available to suit specific firearms and are called “precision fit.” However, cheap versions aren’t always as precise as they might be, so it’s worth investing in quality.
Your final option is a grind-to-fit recoil pad. Attachment is again via screws. The pad will arrive a little over size so it can be ground down, using a belt sander or similar tool, until it exactly matches your rifle or shotgun butt. Clearly a degree of care is needed here so as not to damage the butt. This is the only type where some thickness can be ground down to reduce length of pull. When buying other recoil pads you need to assess this at the outset.
Recoil pad features
Recoil effect is absorbed in one of two ways.
So-called rigid pads are made of plastic and/or rubber polymers. They aren’t really rigid but have a degree of give to them. Air chambers may be built in to provide additional cushioning.
Gel pads are usually used on the neoprene/Lycra type and have one or more gel pockets to absorb shock. Many find the gel pads more comfortable on the shoulder, though they may not last as long.
Recoil pad cost
Recoil pads are very affordable. The cheapest recoil pad we found was under $15 and a perfectly good device for those on a limited budget. Most quality models are in the $20-$30 range, though you might pay another $10 for precision-fit pads.
Recoil pad FAQ
Can I install a recoil pad myself?
A. Slip-on models are installed in moments, and anyone can do it. Screw on and grind-to-fit models require some DIY skills and appropriate tools. It’s not particularly difficult, though your local gun store will usually do it if you’re not confident.
Is a shooting vest better than a recoil pad?
A. It’s a viable alternative, though whether it’s better is a matter of personal preference. Vests are often quite bulky and usually more expensive. However, if you shoot several guns you only need one vest instead of several recoil pads.
Which recoil pad should I get?
Best of the best recoil pad
LimbSaver Airtech Slip-On Recoil Pad: available at Amazon
Our take: High-quality model for a variety of weapons reduces impact injury and muzzle-jump.
What we like: Fits in moments. Reduces felt recoil by up to 70%. Made from proprietary NAVCOM (noise and vibration control material), which absorbs vibration and provides excellent grip on clothing, even when wet.
What we dislike: A few people found the fit imperfect, causing it to move around.
Best bang for your buck recoil pad
Pachmayr Decelerator Recoil Pad: available at Amazon
Our take: Modestly priced yet well-made slip-on model available for several stock sizes.
What we like: Quick and easy tool-free fitting. Durable rubber material. Manufactured to within 0.05 inch of standard factory stock sizes. Available black or brown. Good value.
What we dislike: Not much. Occasional problems with loose fit.
Honorable mention recoil pad
TinyPrice Recoil Pad: available at Amazon
Our take: Low-cost gel-filled model with flexible fit for numerous rifles and shotguns.
What we like: Reduces recoil impact by as much as 70%. Simple Lycra and neoprene cuff offers versatility and won’t damage your firearm. Butt material grips well preventing friction injuries.
What we dislike: Stitching sometimes poor. Sleeve offers limited durability.
Bob Beacham is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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