Shooting a shotgun shouldn’t leave your shoulder sore for days. Whether you’re hunting waterfowl, breaking clays, or just practicing at the range, recoil can wear you down quickly. That’s where the right recoil pad comes in. In this guide, we’ll cover the best shotgun recoil pads available, how they work, and what to look for when choosing the right one for your setup.
Why Use a Recoil Pad?
Recoil pads are designed to reduce the impact of shotgun recoil on your shoulder. They absorb energy, minimize muzzle rise, and allow you to stay on target longer. Whether you’re using 3-inch magnum shells or just putting in a long day at the trap range, a quality recoil pad can make a big difference.
Benefits of Recoil Pads
- Reduces felt recoil and shoulder fatigue
- Improves shooting accuracy by reducing flinch
- Enhances control and follow-up shot speed
- Protects the stock and helps maintain proper gun fit
Top Recoil Pads for Shotguns
1. FalconStrike Hydraulic Recoil Pad
The FalconStrike is in a class of its own. Unlike traditional rubber pads, it uses hydraulic dampening to convert recoil energy into heat. This means you get a smoother, more consistent reduction in felt recoil—up to 80% in some cases.
- Hydraulic design reduces muzzle lift and rock-back
- Great for magnum loads and high-volume shooting
- Precision fit for many shotguns (semi-auto, pump, and break-action)
- Pricey, but offers superior performance and comfort
2. LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad
This is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to a shotgun. The AirTech slip-on model uses LimbSaver’s proprietary NAVCOM material, which soaks up vibration and recoil without compromising the gun’s balance.
- Reduces recoil by up to 50%
- No gunsmithing required—just slide it on
- Fits most shotgun stocks
- Ideal for casual shooters or those wanting a quick fix
3. Kick-EEZ Sorbothane Recoil Pad
Kick-EEZ is a favorite among competitive clay shooters. Made from soft Sorbothane material, these pads can be ground to fit perfectly. They’re known for consistent recoil reduction and are great for shotguns with wooden stocks.
- Excellent for trap and skeet shooting
- Custom fit for specific shotgun models
- Soft and forgiving material
- Requires installation or grinding for optimal fit
4. Pachmayr Decelerator
The Pachmayr Decelerator is a classic recoil pad that’s been trusted by hunters and sport shooters for decades. Its dual-layer rubber absorbs recoil well without being overly soft or squishy.
- Good all-around recoil reduction
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Affordable and widely available
- Often used as a replacement pad for factory stocks
Comparison Table: Best Recoil Pads
| Recoil Pad | Recoil Reduction | Installation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| FalconStrike Hydraulic | Up to 80% | Gunsmith or precision fit | Serious shooters, magnum loads |
| LimbSaver AirTech | Up to 50% | Slip-on | Beginner/intermediate, budget users |
| Kick-EEZ Sorbothane | High | Requires fitting | Clay shooters, competitive sports |
| Pachmayr Decelerator | Moderate | Grind-to-fit or pre-fit | Hunters, general purpose |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Recoil Pad
1. Type of Shotgun
Make sure the pad fits your shotgun’s stock. Some pads are universal, while others are designed for specific models or brands.
2. Shooting Style
If you’re hunting in harsh weather, choose a durable, weather-resistant pad. If you shoot hundreds of rounds per day, go for maximum absorption and comfort.
3. Ease of Installation
Slip-on pads are quick and easy, but they may not look as clean. Grind-to-fit pads require effort but offer a factory-like finish and custom feel.
4. Budget
Prices range from $20 to over $200. Balance performance with your actual shooting needs. Sometimes a $40 pad does the job just fine.
What Users Are Saying
- “I switched to a FalconStrike on my 12-gauge and the difference was unbelievable—felt like shooting a 20-gauge.”
- “LimbSaver’s slip-on was an easy fix for my old pump gun. Took the sting right out.”
- “I’ve been using Kick-EEZ for trap for over 10 years. Can shoot 200 rounds a day without pain.”
Conclusion
Choosing the best shotgun recoil pad depends on your shooting needs, your budget, and how much recoil you’re trying to tame. If you want top-tier comfort and performance, the FalconStrike hydraulic pad is worth the investment. For everyday shooters, the LimbSaver AirTech offers a solid improvement at a fair price. And if you’re customizing a high-end trap gun, Kick-EEZ or Pachmayr Decelerator pads offer precision and comfort that lasts.
Have a favorite recoil pad or a question about fitting one to your shotgun? Drop a comment and let’s talk gear!