Echo what memilanuk said.

A GOOD recoil pad makes a LOT of difference. Find a picture of a Remington 721 (long action) and check the angle of the stock. I have a 1947 Rem 721 in 30/06 that would POUND the shooter. Purchased a Remington factory synthetic stock with the R3 recoil pad....ta da!...angle is changed and the recoil pad soaks up the recoil.


Google "Pain Killer" muzzle brakes.......I put one on a 338 RUM that runs 300 gr SMK's at 2950. Without the brake, that rifle was PUNISHING! Tears at round 12...and I am not a small guy or inexperienced shooter. Flat out hurt!

...and wear GOOD ear muffs....or push in plugs and muffs.