Recoil on Savage M42

I am looking for information on the M42 410 barrel both 4 chill and slugs. I am getting older and arthritis is taking it's toll. I have given nieces and nephews every thing over 22mag including a 24v 223 over 20 gauge. Just too much recoil to keep. I live at 5000', high desert plateau and scrub. I still like to go walking in the arroyos and am thinking about the M42 for lightweight defense. Haven't seen a bear up here in over 20 years but there is an occasional Mt. lion or large feral dogs. I have stopped them before with 22 mag or 4 chill. I haven't hunted since I got out of the Army more than 50 years ago. Meat comes from the market. Can any one here tell me how the 410 shot/slug recoil compares to the old 24v 20 gauge. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

blindhari

Recoil with a slug should feel about the same as shooting a 44 mag from a rifle. You may be able to handle the recoil of a 357 mag in a rifle, ie, Rossi M92 or Marlin 1894.

Welcome to the savage family.