Best Shotgun Recoil Pad in 2022 – [Top 5 Picks]

Shooting, as many of you are aware of, is becoming increasingly popular as a hobby. As a matter of fact, the number of shoulder injuries reported at the local hospitals due to rifling will give you a better picture of the current scenario.

And of course, if you don’t want to end up as one of those unfortunate fellows, then you better stay with us in this review for the best shotgun recoil pad.

Most of you may be wondering, what’s a recoil pad? And why would I even need one?

Well, to put it in simple words, Sir Isaac Newton bought this matter into attention a long time ago.

Still don’t get the idea? Well, here is a simple example.

If you’ve seen or even tried shooting, then you are probably familiar with the backward force the gun implies on your shoulders. But, for an absolute beginner, it is possible that you’ve had no such experience. So, for the time being, know this, a shotgun recoil pad will protect your shoulders from that backward push while firing. 

Now that you’ve had the basics down about the shotgun-recoil 101, then we can proceed forward with the review. Just know this, we will be offering only what you see and how you use it.

Apart from running down through the simple and basic features, we will also be looking for the most convenient features which suit your needs. Furthermore, we will also be giving a rundown of the problems in brief of the best shoulder recoil pad.

Enough talk, let’s get right at it!

1. Recoil Eraser Pad- Best Slip-on Shotgun Recoil Pads


As the name implies, the recoil eraser pad has made a name for itself because of its capabilities. From the maker’s at TinyPrice, this recoil pad offers some really good features at a very aggressive price point. As a matter of fact, it is one of the top contenders in the best slip-on shotgun recoil pad category.


So, let’s dive a little bit deeper into the features of recoil eraser gel review.

With recoil pads, the very first thing to keep in mind is the level of comfort. And the Recoil Eraser doe a really good job at it, thanks to the Lycra covered neoprene cuff. The material is a bit stretchy and does sit on the rifle butt without any sort of movements, thanks to the high surface tension material.


Overall, if we combine the neoprene cuff and high-quality material, there little to no disturbance while shouldering or firing the gun. All in all, in the case of comfort, there are no major complaints.

Recoil eraser gel pad review

So how about the usability? The visco-elastic gel polymer filling does a very good job of padding your shoulders from being sore. Of course, there is the matter of getting used to such a recoil pad. But in almost all scenarios, you will notice at least 70% recoil, which also happens to be the claim of the maker’s themselves.


It is very evident from the product name that it is a slip-on attachment (you may know this already from the comparison table). But is it really that easy to handle?


Well, unlike some of the less user-friendly brands, this recoil eraser gel filled  requires no tools to put on. It slides in fairly easily, which is one more reason for you to consider it.


In conclusion, all we have to say is this, you won’t find a better contender for the best slip on shotgun recoil pads. It’s easy to use and supports various rifles and shotguns. All in all, going for it won’t be a bad choice for anyone. 

Pros

  • Features soft-foam material with gel infusion.
  • Offers 70% less recoil, allowing for better comfort.
  • The installation process is simple and easy.
  • Shock absorption capabilities are right on point.

Cons

  • Durability is an issue with this recoil pad.

2. LimbSaver Airtech Recoil Pad - Best Rated Shotgun Recoil Pads


As a firearm owner, it is very much possible that you are familiar with the makers at LimbSaver. For the most part, their products come with very high durability and control, allowing a good amount of flexibility as an added bonus. Aside from that, the performance is commendable considering the price tag.

limbsaver airtech slip-on recoil pad

For these reasons,our review for the best recoil pad for shotguns wouldn’t be complete without even considering a recoil pad from LimbSaver. As a matter of fact, if you are looking for the limbsaver shotgun recoil pad, then this can be a viable option for you. 


First of all, one of the key features to stand out is the anti-muzzle jump technology. For the most part, it does a really good job of helping you correct your aim.

Now the proprietary Navcom dampening material, which does incorporate a no-slip texture does contribute a lot in this regard. In short, the combination of these features does this recoil pad one of the very few options offering superb usability.


Another thing to mention here is the customizability you get with this pad. Apart from offering a precise fit on your rifle butt, the slip-on aspect of it does make it a hassle-free experience. Although you do need a screwdriver to secure it in place, it’s really not that big of a deal. Moreover, we cannot forget about the stock fitting, which does require a belt grinder for optimal fit.


Overall, considering the value you are getting, we really think the features are certainly worth it. It does fit most of the existing rifles and shotguns, so it can’t really hurt just to check it if it can be the best adjustable shotgun recoil pad.

Pros

  • It is compatible with a wide number of shotguns, muzzleloaders,and rifles.
  • Features a 70% decrease in recoil force, which does help reduce shoulder fatigue.
  • The anti-muzzle jump technology works really well to correct the aim in a short notice.
  • Installation is easy and doesn’t require any sort of modifications.
  • The proprietary material choice works really to maximize comfort by distributing the force evenly.

Cons

  • Some folks may find it a bit slippery, which may depend on your use case.

3. Shooterpads Recoil Pads - Best Rifle Recoil Pad


If you are looking for an affordable recoil pad for your rifle or shotgun, then the makers at Shooterpads may be able to help you out. Their gel-filled recoil pads offer the best of both performance and value. All in all, once you’ve had a look at the specs, you’ll know what we are going for here.


First of all, like many of the prominent brands out there, you will notice that it can offer a good bit of safety and comfort from a shotgun or rifle recoil. But what’s cool is that you are getting some mini-pads with it, which will help adjust the pull length or manage the force absorption just the way you like it.


Aside from such a convenient feature, you are getting a universal size which fits almost all sizes without much of an issue. Now it is a slip-on attachment, meaning it doesn’t require any special tools to adjust it. You just pull it on the rifle or shotgun butt, and you’re good to go.

Best Rifle Recoil Pad

Finally, and it is one the key highlights, is the Visco-elastic gel, which offers a very good distribution of force, allowing you to be comfortable for long periods. So, gun recoil won’t be a major issue, which is really the whole point of having a recoil pad. As a matter of fact, it can be a very decent buy as the shooter pads gel filled recoil pads.


So, in conclusion, we think it’s a worthy option to occupy one of the top spots in our best rated rifle recoil pad. Do check it out if you’re interested.

Pros

  • The gel-infusion does a proper job of absorbing the recoil force, enhancing the usability.
  • Comes with mini-pads, adding extra value.
  • Installation is hassle-free.
  • Fits various firearms without much of an issue.

Cons

  • The adjustability issues need attention.

4. BronzeDog  Recoil Pad - Best Rated Shotgun Recoil Pads


The slip-on recoil pad from BronzeDog may be a hit or miss considering your use case and comfort levels.


Let us explain:


For the most part, it doesn’t have that over-the-top look about it. But there is a silent flair in the overall design, which may be the choice for many users out there. So, if you are looking for something that can add a bit of spice to the overall design of your guns, then you can certainly go for it.

Best Rated Shotgun Recoil Pads

But what happens when you’re not just looking for those extra design points?


Well, bronzedog recoil pad does have your back here as well. Although the pad doesn’t seem to have aggressive cushioning, the leather material does feel nice on the shoulders. It also does a decent job of handling the gun recoil, thanks to the secondary leather layer. Having a leather cushioning system may be a concern for some. But there is nothing to worry about. As a matter of fact, it is one of the best options in the best leather shotgun recoil pad category.

All in all, we can certainly respect the design footprint it has to offer. Also, the price point is really very aggressive, which is also one of its key selling points. So, if you’re on a budget but want something that offers all the necessary features, then you can check it out.

Pros

  • It fits most guns out there, giving you the flexibility you need.
  • The leather design does offer some extra aesthetical value.
  • The extra leather pad does help out with the recoil management, which is admirable.
  • It’s a slip-on recoil pad, so, there’s no need for additional tools. 

Cons

  • There are issues regarding fitting it to firearms which need attention.

5. Ksg Shotgun Recoil Pad - Best Trap Shotgun Recoil Pad


The makers at Hi-tech Custom Concepts do offer some effective recoil reduction pad for shotguns. Their products offer the reliability of the highest standards, keeping the pricing competitive.


For this very reason, we have the Kel-Tech KSG Shotgun recoil pad, which is one of the best options you can currently find if you are looking for the best shotgun recoil pad.


Now before we get started, there is one thing we need to clarify. This recoil pad is particularly effective while using with shotguns, especially if you have a KSG one. So, you may want to factor that if you are looking for a recoil pad for your shotgun.


 In conclusion, if you happen to own a , then this should certainly be your go-to recoil pad. Trust us when we say this, it won’t disappoint you in any case.

Other than that, you get all the basic features with a tinge of preciousness. For instance, the slip on pad adjusts really well with KSG shotguns, which is why it is one of the most coveted items amongst KSG enthusiasts.


Then there is the 1-inch rubber padding, which you can trim to the size you want by just using a pair of scissors. Also, the rubber padding does a really good job of distributing the force evenly, making it a very good option for taking care of your shoulders while minimizing the recoil effects.

Best Trap Shotgun Recoil Pad

In conclusion, if you happen to own a Kel-Tech KSG shotgun, then this should certainly be your go-to recoil pad. Trust us when we say this, it won’t disappoint you in any case. 

Pros

  • Effective with Kel-Tech KSG shotgun.
  • The rubber padding does a good enough job to reduce recoil, offering good comfort.
  • The rubber padding is adjustable, requiring only a pair of scissors for reshaping.
  • Offers a good value for the money.

Cons

  • There are some issues regarding proper fitting with this recoil reducer.

Buying a Recoil Pad: Making the Decision

Now that you’ve had a look at some of our offerings, you should have a pretty good idea about the pluses and minuses of the recoil pads.

But is that enough?

Well, even if you are aware of the features that you need, it is possible that you may want to choose a different brand. That’s perfectly fine.

But how will you be able to find the right one that suits your needs?

Well, in order to fully understand the decision-making process for the best shotgun recoil pad, there are certain considerations to take into account. As long as you think within these parameters, you will be fine.

Sounds like a lot of thinking to do? If I had to think for myself, then why exactly am I here?

That is the very question that’s probably hovering inside your brain at the moment. We won’t really answer your question here. We’ll just go ahead and start off with the decision making process.

Know your preferences

When it comes to shotgun recoil pads, there isn’t too much to say in this regard. But there are a few small details that you need to highlight first. You need to ask yourself the following questions:

When do I use my shotgun? How often do I use it? Am I looking for something to use as the best recoil pad for youth shotgun?

I have used a recoil pad, should I divert from my choice and try out something new?

What type of solution am I looking for? Do I go for more usability or more flexibility?

Once you have the answer to these questions, you are ready to move on and start working on the other important stuff.

What type of rifle or shotgun do you use? Look at the specs

After you’ve known a bit more about your use case, you may want to pay attention to the shotgun size. Be extremely careful when you’re taking the measurements of the buttstock. These things matter a lot whenever you are thinking of buyingthe best aftermarket shotgun recoil pad.

The pull length

Before we go ahead and work with the pull-length, it is crucial that you know what it is first.

To put it in simple terms, the pull-length of a rifle is the length between your shotgun butt and trigger. The pull length is essential for your aiming and grip, which is why it is an important factor to take into consideration.

Depending on your pull length magnitude, you may want to determine the size of your recoil pad. This will not just help you adjust your aim better, it will also help your shoulder to stay relaxed and alert.

Ease ​​​​of use

This is the last part that you need to pay attention to if you want to have the most effective recoil pad in your hands.

In general, slip-on recoil pads aren’t that hard to get used to. As a matter of fact, they don’t really need any specialized tools to put them in place. They just slip on the end our shotgun, and you’re ready to go.

But with slip-on recoil pads, there’s always the question with proper adjustments. If the pad doesn’t sit properly, then your shoulders as protected as you may think. So, the recoil pad can’t just be easy to handle, it should also be properly adjustable for maximum security and convenience.

These are some of the things that you need to take care of before even setting your foot into the shop. Notice that these are the small things that you neglect. But these are the things that come to bite you back. So, we think you get the idea and the answer to the question that we asked previously.

Recoil pads: pre-fit or grind-to-fit

Let’s get something out of the way first.

Pre-fit recoil pads, in general, are the slip on pads that we prefer. These types of pads are easy to use and don’t really need any special equipment to fit themselves to your gun.

Now the problem with these recoil pads is that they are not very customizable. You can’t really argue about it because they are so much cheaper than the grind-to-fit options, which have more versatility and better padding. Also, they are better options as the best trap shotgun recoil pad.

Now slip-on pads don’t come with aggressive padding which can offer exceptional levels of comfort. And that is one of its major flaws.

But with grind-to-fit pads, you don’t really get that much flexibility. These are often made for specific models of rifles or shotguns, so there is very little room for modifications. They are expensive as well.  

That is where the slip-on pads shine. There are options out there which come with swappable mini-pads to help with modifications to the recoil pads, which is often a plus point.

You better keep these things in your head if you are looking to buy the best recoil pad for 12-gauge shotgun.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Here are a few simple questions which may cross your mind when you are shopping for a shotgun recoil pad.

Why should I choose a slip-on pad for my shotgun?

There are two reasons behind it. Firstly, they are much cheaper than other types of recoil dampeners. Secondly, they are much easier to handle, as there are no extra tools required for attaching it to your shotgun or rifle.

Should I go for a multipurpose option?

You can, but there is a problem with this solution. The multipurpose recoil dampeners often cheap out on some of the core features. So, if you are a novice and want to go that route, then we will recommend you to at least go for a reputable brand.

Is there any way to be certain about the quality of the pad I’m aiming for?

That’s a very good question. Now if you are new and want to get started with shooting, then our suggestion would be  to choose an option and work from there. But if you are an intermediate user, then you can ask for expert opinions from veteran users. Checking the website of the manufacturer is probably beneficial, but you may not hear the right things that you want to hear from them.   

Final Thoughts

We have reached the end of this review on the best shotgun recoil pad.

So far, if you’ve been with us this long, we are sure that you’ve gained a lot of useful information. Still, there is one thing that we would want to share with you.

Shotgun or any other rifle can provide the recoil to dislocate, or even break your collarbone. So, you may want to be on the safe end and try to grab a recoil pad. Safety comes first before anything else. Also, sticking with a reliable brand will help you in ways you won’t really see coming.

With that said, we bid you farewell. Hope you find the solution you’re looking for.

Goodbye!