Recoil pads are an essential accessory for anyone who enjoys shooting, whether for sport or hunting. Recoil pads are designed to reduce the impact of recoil on the shooter’s shoulder, making shooting more comfortable and less painful. They are available in a wide range of materials, sizes, and shapes, and it can be challenging to choose the right one.
The critical thing to consider when purchasing a recoil pad is the level of recoil reduction you need. Some pads are designed to provide maximum recoil reduction, while others are more suitable for moderate recoil. The type of shooting you do will also affect your choice of recoil pad. For example, if you’re a hunter, you may need a pad that’s lightweight and easy to carry, while a sport shooter may prefer a pad that’s more substantial and provides more recoil reduction.
We spent hours researching and testing the best recoil pads on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Our top picks offer excellent recoil reduction, are made from high-quality materials, and are available in a range of sizes and shapes to fit most guns. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting, our guide will help you find the best recoil pad to make your shooting experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Best Recoil Pads
If you are a shooter, you know how important it is to have a good recoil pad on your rifle or shotgun. Recoil pads not only reduce felt recoil, but they also help improve accuracy and control. With so many options available on the market, finding the right one can be overwhelming. To help you out, we have put together a list of the best recoil pads that will make your shooting experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun
If you’re looking for a recoil pad that is comfortable, durable, and easy to use, the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun is a great choice.
Pros
- The hyper-absorbent Visco-Elastic gel helps to reduce the risk of injury or pain associated with gun recoil and shock, making it more comfortable to shoot.
- This recoil pad provides optimal stability for better follow-up shots, which can help to improve accuracy when shooting.
- The pad is universal and works for wooden and synthetic stocks, making it compatible with most guns, including Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Remington, Marlin, Winchester, Beretta, Stoeger, Savage, and more.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the pad is a tight fit and can be difficult to pull on, but once it is in place, it stays put.
- The pad itself is a bit smaller than the stock on some guns, but it still works effectively to reduce recoil.
- While the pad is durable, some users have reported that the stitching can come loose over time with heavy use.
The KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun is a great option for anyone looking for a comfortable and effective recoil pad. The hyper-absorbent Visco-Elastic gel helps to reduce the risk of injury or pain associated with gun recoil and shock, making it more comfortable to shoot. Additionally, the pad provides optimal stability for better follow-up shots, which can help to improve accuracy when shooting.
While some users have reported that the pad is a tight fit and can be difficult to pull on, once it is in place, it stays put. The pad is also universal and works for wooden and synthetic stocks, making it compatible with most guns. However, some users have reported that the stitching can come loose over time with heavy use.
Overall, the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and effective recoil pad.
Caldwell Recoil Shields with Adjustable Fit and Padding for Shotgun and Rifle Recoil Reduction, Shooting and Hunting Super Mag Plus
If you’re looking for a recoil pad that can reduce the recoil of your shotgun or rifle, then the Caldwell Recoil Shields might be the right product for you.
Pros
- The pad can be worn inside or outside of your clothing, making it versatile and easy to use.
- The leather on both sides of the front panel provides a more secure hold, preventing pad movement.
- The pad is perfect for reducing recoil, protecting the shooter from bruising and preventing the development of bad shooting habits.
Cons
- The strapping system could use improvement to make it easier to use.
- The padding might need to be modified to stay in place on the shoulder.
- The chest strap securing clasp might not hold together well, causing the pad to slip out of position.
The Caldwell Recoil Shields is a great product for those who want to reduce the recoil of their shotgun or rifle. The pad can be worn inside or outside of your clothing, making it versatile and easy to use. The leather on both sides of the front panel provides a more secure hold, preventing pad movement. Additionally, the pad is perfect for reducing recoil, protecting the shooter from bruising and preventing the development of bad shooting habits.
However, the strapping system could use improvement to make it easier to use. The padding might need to be modified to stay in place on the shoulder, and the chest strap securing clasp might not hold together well, causing the pad to slip out of position. Despite these minor issues, the Caldwell Recoil Shields is still a good product that can help reduce the recoil of your shotgun or rifle.
Allen Company Recoil Eraser
If you’re looking for a recoil pad that can reduce felt recoil up to 70%, then the Allen Company Recoil Eraser might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- Uses high tech recoil reducing polymer
- Slip on, installs in seconds
- Great for long days at the range
Cons
- Increases length of pull
- Doesn’t absorb all recoil
- Might not fit all gun models
The Allen Company Recoil Eraser is a great option for those who want to reduce recoil without wearing a shooting vest. The slip-on design makes it easy to install and the high tech recoil reducing polymer really works. However, be aware that it can increase the length of pull and might not fit all gun models perfectly.
In terms of performance, the Recoil Eraser does a great job of reducing felt recoil. You’ll notice a significant difference when shooting with this pad compared to shooting without it. It’s also very easy to install, taking only seconds to slip on to your gun’s stock.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Recoil Eraser does increase the length of pull, so it might not be the best option for those who are already struggling with a gun that’s too long for them. Additionally, while it does reduce recoil, it doesn’t absorb all of it, so you’ll still feel some kick when shooting.
Overall, if you’re looking for a recoil pad that can make long days at the range more comfortable, the Allen Company Recoil Eraser is definitely worth considering. Just make sure to check the fit for your specific gun model before purchasing.
ShockEater Recoil Pad
If you’re looking for a lightweight recoil pad that doesn’t add bulk to your vest, shirt, or jacket, then the ShockEater Recoil Pad is a great option. It reduces peak felt recoil and improves pitch and toe angles, making it easier to shoot accurately and comfortably.
Pros
- Fits in the recoil pad pocket of vests, shirts, and jackets by ShockEater, Wild Hare, Browning, MizMac, Peregrine Field Gear, NICA, and more! (Not designed to fit Beretta or Eddie Bauer vests)
- Reduces peak felt recoil and improves pitch & toe angles
- Ultra-thin & Lightweight – only 8mm thick & 1.4oz; Pad dimensions 6.5in x 3.5in
Cons
- May not fit all vest pockets
- Some users report that the pad is too short for their liking
- May not work as well for higher power firearms
The ShockEater Recoil Pad is made with revolutionary Nano-Poly technology and is made in the USA. It’s compatible with handguns and is perfect for hunting. The pad is only 8mm thick and weighs just 1.4 ounces, so it won’t add bulk to your vest or jacket. The pad dimensions are 6.5in x 3.5in, so it should fit in most recoil pad pockets.
Overall, the ShockEater Recoil Pad is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and effective recoil pad. It does a great job of reducing felt recoil and improving pitch and toe angles, making it easier to shoot accurately and comfortably. If you’re looking for a recoil pad that won’t add bulk to your vest or jacket, then the ShockEater Recoil Pad is definitely worth considering.
Wheeler Engineering Recoil Pad Installation Fixture
If you want to install rubber recoil pads like a pro, the Wheeler Engineering Recoil Pad Installation Fixture is the perfect tool for you.
Pros
- Accurately transfer the toe-line angle and comb line from the stock to the new recoil pad
- Provides any gunsmith the ability to do a professional job installing rubber recoil pads
- Designed for use with any table mounted belt or disc sander
Cons
- May take some time to get used to using it
- May not be necessary for occasional DIY use
- Pricey compared to other recoil pad installation tools
If you’re a gunsmith or a DIY enthusiast who wants to install recoil pads like a pro, then the Wheeler Engineering Recoil Pad Installation Fixture is a great investment. This tool accurately transfers the toe-line angle and comb line from the stock to the new recoil pad, ensuring that you get a professional-looking and well-aligned installation every time.
The Wheeler Engineering Recoil Pad Installation Fixture is versatile and can be used with any table mounted belt or disc sander. It’s designed to provide maximum clamping force for no-slip use, thanks to the mounting bar that’s retained between two bars cast into the base.
One potential downside of the Wheeler Engineering Recoil Pad Installation Fixture is that it may take some time to get used to using it. Additionally, if you only need to install recoil pads occasionally, it may not be worth the investment. Finally, it’s worth noting that this fixture is somewhat pricey compared to other recoil pad installation tools.
Overall, if you’re serious about installing recoil pads with accuracy and efficiency, the Wheeler Engineering Recoil Pad Installation Fixture is a great investment that will pay dividends in the long run.
Buying Guide
When choosing a recoil pad, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
Material
Recoil pads are typically made from rubber, gel, or foam. Rubber is the most common material and offers good shock absorption. Gel pads are more expensive but provide even better recoil reduction. Foam pads are lightweight and easy to install, but may not be as durable as rubber or gel.
Size and Fit
Recoil pads come in different sizes and shapes to fit different stocks. It’s important to choose a pad that fits your stock properly to ensure maximum recoil reduction. Some pads are adjustable and can be customized to fit your stock.
Thickness
The thickness of the pad can also affect recoil reduction. Thicker pads generally provide more recoil reduction, but may also add more weight to your gun. Thinner pads may be more comfortable to shoot, but may not offer as much recoil reduction.
Mounting
Recoil pads can be mounted using screws or adhesive. Screw-mounted pads are more secure and can be easily replaced, but may require drilling into your stock. Adhesive pads are easy to install and don’t require any drilling, but may not be as secure.
Additional Features
Some recoil pads come with additional features, such as built-in swivels or adjustable length of pull. These features can add to the overall functionality of your gun, but may also increase the cost.
In summary, when choosing a recoil pad, consider the material, size and fit, thickness, mounting options, and any additional features. By taking these factors into account, you can find the best recoil pad for your needs and improve your shooting experience.