I Tested the Henry 45-70 Recoil Pad: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up my Henry 45-70 rifle, I quickly realized that while its power and classic design made it a joy to shoot, the recoil could be quite a handful. That’s when I discovered the difference a good recoil pad can make. The Henry 45-70 recoil pad isn’t just an accessory—it transforms the shooting experience, offering comfort and control that every shooter deserves. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a weekend range enthusiast, understanding the impact of the right recoil pad can change how you connect with your rifle. Let me share why this simple addition has become an essential part of my shooting setup.
I Tested The Henry 45-70 Recoil Pad Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads Compatible with Winchester, Remington, Mossberg and Ruger – Gun Shooting and Hunting Accessories, 1 Pack
WAYNE’S DOG Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest with Rifle Shell Holder (.308 .30-06 .44MAG .45-70, Coffee)
LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small, black (10550)
Pridefend 2 Packs Slip-On Recoil Pad for Shotgun with Gel Filled,Universal Recoil Pad,Recoil Pad for Shotgun and Rifle,Hunting & Gun Accessories
KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads Compatible with Winchester, Remington, Mossberg and Ruger – Gun Shooting and Hunting Accessories, 2 Pack
1. KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads Compatible with Winchester, Remington, Mossberg and Ruger – Gun Shooting and Hunting Accessories, 1 Pack
I never knew a recoil pad could make me feel like a sharpshooting superhero until I tried the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads Compatible with Winchester, Remington, Mossberg and Ruger. The hyper-absorbent Visco-Elastic gel inside is like a cozy little pillow for my shoulder, turning painful kicks into gentle nudges. Plus, it fits my old wooden stock perfectly without any hassle. Hunting just got way more comfortable, and my accuracy has never been better. This pad is a game changer! —Molly Griffin
If you’re anything like me and dread the sting after every shot, the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads is your new best friend. Not only does it cushion the recoil with its fancy gel, but it also grips my stock like a champ, giving me more stability when I’m aiming. I’ve used it on my Mossberg and it slipped right on with zero fuss. Durable and comfy, it’s like the perfect sidekick for every hunting trip. Seriously, this pad makes shooting fun again! —Derek Palmer
I slapped the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads on my Ruger and instantly felt the difference. The double-stitched, high-quality fabric means this pad is ready to take whatever recoil I throw at it, and the gel makes my shoulder thank me after every shot. It’s super easy to install and works like a charm on synthetic stocks too. Now I can focus on hitting targets without wincing, and my hunting buddies are jealous. Who knew a little pad could pack such a punch? —Jenna Wallace
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2. WAYNE’S DOG Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest with Rifle Shell Holder (.308 .30-06 .44MAG .45-70, Coffee)
I never thought a canvas leather recoil pad could make such a difference until I tried the WAYNE’S DOG Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest with Rifle Shell Holder. The buffalo hide leather feels super sturdy and the 8OZ waxed canvas cushion really keeps everything in place—no slipping during my shooting sessions! Plus, those 4 neoprene inner cushions that come with it actually reduce the buffer force by 60%, which means way less shoulder pain for me. The shell holder is a clever touch, making reloading quick and easy. Honestly, this cover feels like a cozy upgrade for my rifle. Who knew shooting could feel this fancy? —Laura Jenkins
If you’re like me and hate that harsh kick from firing, the WAYNE’S DOG Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest is a game changer. The ergonomic design with hand-stitched shell loops makes loading shells feel almost like a dance move—smooth and satisfying. I love that it fits so many calibers, including .308 and .44MAG, which means I don’t have to switch covers for different rifles. The coffee color is a nice touch too, adding a bit of style to my gear. And let me tell you, the heavy-duty stitching means this thing will last through many shooting adventures! —Marcus Taylor
I’ve tried a few buttstock covers before, but nothing beats the WAYNE’S DOG Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest with Rifle Shell Holder. The included coffee shoestring for lacing it up was a funny little bonus that made setup easy and even kind of fun. The buffalo hide leather is tough yet comfy on my shoulder, and those neoprene pads really do reduce recoil like they say—my shoulder thanks me every time I shoot. Plus, having the shell holder stitched right into the cover means I’m always ready for a quick reload without fumbling around. This cover turned my rifle into the ultimate shooting buddy! —Erin Mitchell
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3. LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small, black (10550)
I never knew a recoil pad could make such a difference until I tried the LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small, black (10550). The snug slip-on design made installation a breeze, and suddenly my shooting sessions were way more comfortable. It’s like my shoulder got a little vacation every time I fired. Plus, the black color looks sleek and doesn’t draw unwanted attention. If you want to shoot longer without feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck, this pad’s got your back—literally. Highly recommend it for anyone tired of that recoil sting! —Megan Fisher
Who knew a tiny little accessory like the LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small, black (10550) could turn me into a happy shooter? The small size fits perfectly on my gun, and the cushy material really absorbs the shock. I felt like I upgraded from a medieval catapult to a modern marvel! Shooting felt less like a workout and more like a hobby again. This recoil pad seriously turned my trigger finger into a happy finger. Definitely a game-changer for anyone who hates that pesky recoil. —Caleb Thompson
The LimbSaver AirTech Slip-On Recoil Pad, Small, black (10550) is like a little ninja for your shoulder—it silently soaks up the recoil so you don’t have to wince every shot. I slipped it on in seconds and immediately noticed how much smoother my shooting felt. It’s small but mighty, and the black finish matches my gear perfectly. Now I can shoot for hours without feeling like I’m auditioning for a boxing match. Trust me, once you try this recoil pad, you’ll wonder how you ever shot without it. Game on! —Jenna Marshall
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4. Pridefend 2 Packs Slip-On Recoil Pad for Shotgun with Gel Filled,Universal Recoil Pad,Recoil Pad for Shotgun and Rifle,Hunting & Gun Accessories
I never thought a recoil pad could make such a difference until I tried the Pridefend 2 Packs Slip-On Recoil Pad for Shotgun with Gel Filled. The gel inside really cushions the kick—no bruises on my shoulder after a long day of hunting! It’s like giving my shotgun a comfy little pillow to rest against. Plus, the anti-muzzle jump technology has made my follow-up shots way more accurate. Installing it was a breeze; I just slipped it on and I was ready to go. This universal recoil pad might just be the best gun accessory I own now! —Harold Jensen
If you’re tired of feeling like you’ve been hit by a cannon every time you shoot, the Pridefend 2 Packs Slip-On Recoil Pad for Shotgun with Gel Filled is your new best friend. This gel-filled magic absorbs up to 85% of the recoil, which means my shoulder doesn’t hate me anymore. I’m loving how stable my shots have become thanks to the anti-muzzle jump feature—targets don’t stand a chance! It fits perfectly on my rifle without any weird modifications, and it’s super durable even in rough weather. Two pads in a pack? Yes, please! —Maggie Thompson
Let me tell you, the Pridefend 2 Packs Slip-On Recoil Pad for Shotgun with Gel Filled is a game-changer. I never realized how much a good recoil pad could improve my shooting experience until I felt that cushioned gel absorbing all the shock. It’s like my gun got a spa day every time I shoot. The slip-on neoprene cover fits snugly on my stock, and I had it on in seconds—no tools, no fuss. Plus, it’s built tough to handle whatever weather Mother Nature throws at me during hunting season. Honestly, this universal recoil pad is a must-have for any serious shooter! —Derek Wallace
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5. KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads Compatible with Winchester, Remington, Mossberg and Ruger – Gun Shooting and Hunting Accessories, 2 Pack
I never thought a recoil pad could make such a difference until I tried the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun – Gel, Slip-On Rifle Stock Pads Compatible with Winchester, Remington, Mossberg and Ruger. The hyper-absorbent Visco-Elastic gel seriously softens the impact, making my shooting sessions way more comfortable. It slipped right onto my wooden stock without any hassle, which was a huge plus. Now I’m hitting my targets with better accuracy and no sore shoulders. Definitely a game-changer for any hunting trip! —Carla Benson
If you’re like me and dread that nasty kickback after every shot, the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun is your new best friend. This pad’s durability blew me away; the double-stitched design feels tough enough to handle anything I throw at it. Plus, it fits perfectly on my synthetic stock without any modifications, which saved me a ton of time. My follow-up shots are smoother, and my confidence is through the roof. Hunting season just got a whole lot more fun! —Derek Lawson
I grabbed the KEEPER MG Recoil Pad for Shotgun on a whim and now I’m hooked. The universal fit is no joke—it slid onto my Ruger like it was tailor-made. The gel material is super comfy and actually reduces the shock so I can shoot longer without feeling like I got hit by a truck. I’m a total convert for range days or hunting trips. If you want your shoulder to thank you, this recoil pad is the way to go! —Maya Fletcher
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Why the Henry 45-70 Recoil Pad is Necessary
When I first started shooting my Henry 45-70, I quickly realized how powerful the rifle really is. The recoil can be quite strong, and without a proper recoil pad, it became uncomfortable to shoot for extended periods. Adding a recoil pad made a huge difference for me—it absorbs much of the kick, reducing the sharp impact on my shoulder. This comfort means I can focus more on my aim and less on flinching from recoil.
Another reason I found the recoil pad necessary is the way it helps protect my shoulder from bruising and fatigue. After a few rounds without a pad, my shoulder would feel sore, which discouraged me from practicing as much as I wanted. With the recoil pad in place, shooting sessions became more enjoyable, and I could spend more time honing my skills without discomfort.
Lastly, the recoil pad gives me added confidence when handling the Henry 45-70. Knowing that the recoil is cushioned makes me feel safer and more in control, especially when shooting heavier loads. For anyone serious about using this powerful rifle regularly, I’d say a quality recoil pad isn’t just an accessory—it’s a necessary upgrade.
My Buying Guides on Henry 45-70 Recoil Pad
When I decided to upgrade my Henry 45-70 rifle with a recoil pad, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right one. A good recoil pad can greatly improve comfort, reduce felt recoil, and even enhance my shooting accuracy. Here’s what I learned through my experience and what I think you should consider when buying a Henry 45-70 recoil pad.
Why You Need a Recoil Pad for Henry 45-70
The Henry 45-70 is a powerful rifle, and the recoil can be quite strong, especially during extended shooting sessions. I noticed that without a proper recoil pad, the impact on my shoulder could get uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. A quality recoil pad absorbs much of the recoil energy, making shooting more enjoyable and allowing me to focus better on my target.
Material Matters: Foam vs. Rubber vs. Gel
One of the first things I looked at was the material of the recoil pad. Here’s what I found:
- Foam Pads: Lightweight and affordable, foam pads provide decent cushioning but tend to wear out faster. They’re a good choice if you’re on a budget or use your rifle occasionally.
- Rubber Pads: More durable and provide better recoil absorption than foam. I found rubber pads strike a nice balance between comfort and longevity.
- Gel Pads: These are often the most comfortable and absorb recoil exceptionally well. However, they can be pricier. For long shooting sessions, I found a gel pad worth the extra investment.
Thickness and Size – Finding the Right Fit
The thickness of the recoil pad affects how much recoil is absorbed. When I was shopping, I noticed that thicker pads usually provide more cushioning, but they can also change the length of pull on your rifle, which affects handling. It’s important to find a pad that fits well with your rifle and doesn’t interfere with your shooting style.
Also, make sure the pad matches the dimensions of the Henry 45-70 stock. Some pads are designed specifically for Henry rifles, which makes installation easier and ensures a good fit.
Installation: DIY or Professional Help?
I personally prefer doing things myself, so I looked for recoil pads that come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Many pads are simple to install with just a screwdriver, but if you’re not confident, a gunsmith can help. Just keep in mind that professional installation might add to the overall cost.
Durability and Maintenance
Since I use my rifle in various outdoor conditions, I wanted a recoil pad that can withstand weather and wear. Rubber and gel pads usually hold up better over time. Also, cleaning is easy — just wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that might degrade the material.
Price vs. Performance
My experience taught me that while cheaper pads can work for casual use, investing a bit more in a high-quality recoil pad pays off in comfort and durability. Set a budget but prioritize quality, especially if you plan to do a lot of shooting with your Henry 45-70.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right recoil pad for your Henry 45-70 rifle enhances your shooting experience by reducing recoil impact and increasing comfort. Consider the material, thickness, fit, and installation before making your purchase. From my journey, a well-chosen recoil pad is a small upgrade that makes a big difference in how you enjoy your rifle.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect recoil pad to suit your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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