For any shotgun enthusiast, managing recoil is a critical part of the shooting experience. Whether you’re on a long day at the trap range, hunting in the field, or practicing tactical drills, a quality recoil pad can make a significant difference in comfort and control. The right pad reduces shoulder fatigue, minimizes flinching, and helps you stay on target for follow-up shots.
With many options available, from simple slip-on designs to precision-fit replacements, selecting the best one for your firearm can be challenging. This roundup highlights eight of the best recoil pads on the market, each offering unique benefits for different types of shotguns and shooting styles. We’ve evaluated them based on features, installation ease, and performance to help you make an informed choice.
Our Top Picks for Shotgun Recoil Pads
- Pachmayr 04414 Decelerator Slip-On Recoil Pad
- Feyachi Gel Filled Slip On Recoil Pad for Shotgun
- LimbSaver 10806 AirTech Precision-Fit Recoil Pad
- LimbSaver Snap-On Recoil Pad for Adjustable Stocks
- LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small/Medium
- Pachmayr Decelerator Slip-On Recoil Pad
- Kick-EEZ Recoil Pad by Sims Vibration Laboratory
- Griffin & Howe Recoil Pad – Pachmayr Old English Style
Pachmayr 04414 Decelerator Slip-On Recoil Pad
This slip-on pad from Pachmayr is designed for straightforward installation without any permanent modification to your shotgun. Its unique speed mount insert allows it to slide onto the buttstock smoothly and lock securely in place. The design prioritizes a clean, functional fit that won’t snag on clothing or gear during use.
The non-slip, textured surface provides a secure anchor against your shoulder, helping to maintain a consistent mount. Made from Pachmayr’s proprietary Decelerator material, it effectively absorbs shock to reduce felt recoil and improve shooting comfort during extended sessions.
Feyachi Gel Filled Slip On Recoil Pad
Feyachi’s offering stands out with its gel-filled core, which the manufacturer states can reduce up to 70% of felt recoil. This material provides a soft yet supportive cushion that disperses energy over a larger area. It is a versatile accessory designed to fit a wide range of rifle and shotgun buttstocks.
The major benefit is its tool-free, non-permanent installation. You can easily slip it on or off, making it simple to move between different firearms as needed. This feature is ideal for shooters who own multiple guns and want one pad for various uses, from hunting to tactical shooting.
LimbSaver 10806 AirTech Precision-Fit Recoil Pad
This is not a slip-on pad but a replacement recoil pad designed for specific shotgun models from Ithaca, Mossberg, Remington, and Winchester. It requires installation in place of your factory pad, typically involving screws, for a seamless and permanent look. The Precision-Fit line ensures a clean, professional appearance.
It utilizes LimbSaver’s advanced AirTech material, which contains atmospheric chambers to uniformly dissipate energy. This technology is highly effective, reportedly reducing up to 70% of felt recoil. The result is increased stability and control, which can lead to better accuracy and less shooter fatigue.
LimbSaver Snap-On Recoil Pad for Adjustable Stocks
Designed specifically for modern shotguns and rifles with 6-position adjustable stocks, this LimbSaver model offers a custom solution for a popular stock style. It snaps directly onto the existing buttplate, providing the benefits of a premium recoil pad without the need for tools or removal of the original equipment.
The secure snap-on fit means it stays in place during use but can be removed if necessary. It brings LimbSaver’s renowned recoil reduction technology to tactical and adjustable-stock firearms, making high-volume shooting or use with heavy loads much more manageable.
LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small/Medium
This versatile slip-on pad from LimbSaver is built to fit most standard rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. Its universal design makes it an excellent choice for shooters seeking a high-performance pad that can be used on multiple firearms in their collection. Installation is as simple as stretching it over the buttstock.
Beyond its impressive recoil reduction claim of up to 70%, it incorporates anti-muzzle jump technology. This feature helps keep the firearm more stable during firing, allowing for faster re-acquisition of your target for a subsequent shot, which is a significant advantage in hunting or competitive scenarios.
Pachmayr Decelerator Slip-On Recoil Pad
The classic Pachmayr Decelerator slip-on is a trusted name in recoil management. It is known for its durable construction and effective use of the Decelerator compound, which absorbs and disperses recoil energy efficiently. This model is designed for a secure fit that stays in place during vigorous activity.
Its slip-on nature offers the convenience of easy installation and removal, requiring no gunsmithing. The textured outer surface provides a non-slip grip against clothing, ensuring the pad remains positioned correctly on your shoulder throughout your shooting motion.
Kick-EEZ Recoil Pad by Sims Vibration Laboratory
Kick-EEZ pads are often considered a premium choice for serious shooters, particularly in competitive clay target sports. They are known for their exceptional recoil absorption, utilizing a specialized viscoelastic polymer that manages vibration and shock extremely effectively. These are typically installed as replacement pads.
The performance of a Kick-EEZ pad can be a major asset for shooters who fire hundreds of rounds in a day, as it significantly reduces cumulative shoulder stress. The pad also features a stylish, finished look that complements higher-end shotguns, combining function with an attractive appearance.
Griffin & Howe Recoil Pad – Pachmayr Old English Style
This pad is designed for shooters who value classic aesthetics without sacrificing modern performance. The Old English style features a traditional, finely-checked surface and a distinctive shape that complements classic double-barrel shotguns and fine sporting rifles. It is a replacement-style pad that requires professional fitting for the best results.
Manufactured by Pachmayr for Griffin & Howe, it incorporates proven recoil-reducing technology within a timeless design. It is an ideal choice for those who wish to enhance an heirloom firearm or a custom shotgun with a pad that looks as good as it performs.
How to Choose the Best Recoil Pads for Shotguns
Let’s be honest, a sore shoulder can really take the fun out of a long day at the range or in the field. That’s why picking the right recoil pad isn’t just about comfort; it’s about staying on target and wanting to shoot more. I’ve installed more than a few over the years, and I can tell you it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Here’s what I look for when I’m trying to find the best recoil pads for shotguns.
First, you need to think about material and construction. Most pads use rubber or a soft polymer, but the good ones often have a dual-layer design. A softer, grippy outer layer absorbs the initial slap, while a firmer inner layer slows and spreads out the push. This combo is key for taming heavy magnum loads. Some premium options even use advanced gel or sorbothane, which are fantastic at dissipating energy but can be heavier and more expensive.
Next up is fit and installation. This is huge. You have three main types: slip-on, grind-to-fit, and pre-fit. Slip-ons are the easy button—you just slide them over the existing buttplate. They’re great for a quick fix but can look bulky and sometimes slip. Grind-to-fit pads are the professional’s choice. You buy a pad slightly larger than your stock and sand it down for a perfect, seamless fit. It takes more work but gives the cleanest result. Pre-fit pads are made for specific shotgun models and are a great middle ground, often requiring just a simple screw installation.
Don’t forget about the shape and texture. A good pad should have a slight angle or a “kick heel” to help direct the gun downward into your shoulder pocket, not straight back into your collarbone. The texture on the back is important too. A soft, tacky rubber helps keep the gun from sliding around on your jacket, which is a big help for follow-up shots. Finally, consider the look. While function is king, you probably don’t want a bright orange pad on a classic walnut stock. Most companies offer black, gray, and sometimes brown to match your firearm’s style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a recoil pad change the length of pull on my shotgun?
Yes, almost always. A recoil pad adds length because it’s physically replacing your thin, hard buttplate. Most pads add between 1/2 inch to 1.5 inches. This is a crucial thing to check, especially if you have a shorter wingspan. If you can’t afford to lengthen your stock, look for a “thin” or “short” profile pad designed to add minimal length, or consider a grind-to-fit model you can trim down significantly.
Can I install a recoil pad myself?
You absolutely can, and the difficulty depends on the type. A slip-on is foolproof. A pre-fit pad that uses the existing screw holes is usually a simple swap. The real challenge is with grind-to-fit pads. This job requires patience, a rasp or sander, and a steady hand to get the edges perfect. If you’re not confident, having a gunsmith do it is a relatively inexpensive way to get a flawless finish. For any installation, having the right tools makes all the difference.
What’s the difference between a recoil pad and a buttplate?
A buttplate is primarily a protective cap for the end of the stock. It’s usually made of hard plastic or metal and does very little to soften kick. A recoil pad is specifically engineered to absorb and spread out the energy from the shot using soft, compressible materials. Think of a buttplate as a tile floor and a recoil pad as a running shoe—both are under your foot, but one is a lot more forgiving on your joints.
How do I clean and maintain my shotgun’s recoil pad?
The soft rubber can attract dirt and degrade over time. For basic cleaning, I use a damp cloth with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, or oil-based products, as they can break down the rubber compounds and make them sticky or brittle. If the pad starts to dry out or crack after many years, it’s time for a replacement. Keeping it out of direct, hot sunlight when stored helps prolong its life.
Are more expensive recoil pads really worth it?
From my experience, there is a point of diminishing returns, but stepping up from the absolute cheapest option is smart. A mid-priced pad from a reputable brand will offer much better energy absorption, durability, and a non-slip surface than a bargain-bin model. The very high-end pads with specialized gels or composites do offer measurable performance gains, especially for high-volume shooters or those firing heavy loads. Your shoulder will tell you if the investment was worth it after a 100-round clay day.