The KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 Made a Bold First Impression
The KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 promises to tame the felt recoil of a classic shotgun. Made by KickLite, this pistol grip stock aims to modernize the venerable Ithaca 37 while enhancing shooter comfort. I was intrigued by the claim of 40-50% recoil reduction, a feature that could significantly extend shooting sessions without punishing my shoulder.
My interest in this product stemmed from a desire to make my Ithaca 37 more manageable for extended use. I enjoy clay shooting, but the standard stock on my Ithaca often leaves me with a sore shoulder after a few rounds. The promise of reduced recoil and a more modern pistol grip made the KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 a compelling option.
Upon unboxing, the stock felt solid and well-constructed. The pistol grip design immediately felt more ergonomic than the original stock. The recoil pad appeared to be made of a dense, shock-absorbing material, adding to my confidence in its recoil-reducing capabilities.
Compared to similar aftermarket stocks, such as those from Hogue or Mesa Tactical, the KickLite stood out due to its integrated recoil reduction system. While other stocks focus primarily on ergonomics and grip, the KickLite explicitly addresses recoil absorption. This was the deciding factor in my choice, as recoil mitigation was my primary concern.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for reduced recoil and improved handling. However, I was also slightly apprehensive about the installation process and whether the recoil reduction system would live up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 at my local shooting range. The range offered a variety of targets and shooting scenarios, allowing me to assess the stock’s performance in different conditions. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The stock significantly reduced the felt recoil compared to the original stock. I was able to shoot several rounds of clay targets without experiencing any significant shoulder fatigue. The pistol grip provided a secure and comfortable hold, improving my control over the shotgun.
The only initial issue I encountered was the need for a long-arm ball end Allen wrench for installation. The instructions clearly stated this requirement, but I didn’t have one readily available, which delayed my first range session. After acquiring the correct tool, the installation was straightforward.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 has proven to be durable and reliable. The stock shows no signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use in various weather conditions. The recoil reduction system continues to function effectively, absorbing a noticeable amount of recoil.
The stock has held up well to regular cleaning and maintenance. The synthetic material is easy to wipe down and doesn’t require any special cleaning products. I’ve found it to be a significant improvement over the original wooden stock, which required more careful maintenance.
Compared to my previous experiences with the standard Ithaca 37 stock, the KickLite offers a vastly superior shooting experience. The reduced recoil and improved ergonomics have allowed me to shoot longer and more accurately. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37
Specifications
KickLite Recoil Absorbing System: This patented system is the core of the stock’s recoil reduction capabilities. It allows for up to 3/4″ of rearward movement of the grip upon firing, absorbing a significant portion of the recoil.
40-50% Recoil Reduction: This is the key selling point of the KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37. This amount of reduction makes longer shooting sessions more comfortable.
Pistol Grip Sporter Stock: The pistol grip design offers enhanced ergonomics and control. This design allows for a more natural and secure grip on the shotgun.
Length of Pull: 14.5″: This length provides a comfortable fit for most shooters. This specific length promotes better shouldering and aiming.
Recoil Absorbing Butt Pad: This pad further dampens recoil and provides a non-slip engagement with the shoulder. This feature enhances comfort and stability during shooting.
12 ga. Shot Shell Carrier: This allows the user to attach a shotshell carrier (drilling required for installation). The addition of readily available ammunition is a convenient addition.
Installation Hardware Included: The stock includes all necessary hardware for installation (except for the long arm ball end Allen wrench). The provision of hardware simplifies the installation process.
These specifications are crucial for the performance and overall user experience. The recoil reduction system and butt pad directly address shooter comfort. The pistol grip design enhances control and ergonomics.
Performance & Functionality
The KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It noticeably reduces felt recoil. The improved ergonomics make the Ithaca 37 more comfortable and easier to control.
The primary strength of this stock is its recoil reduction. This system works as advertised, significantly lessening the impact on the shooter’s shoulder. A potential weakness could be the drilling required for the shotshell carrier.
The stock meets and even exceeds expectations. The improved ergonomics and significant recoil reduction provide a much better shooting experience than the original stock. I had higher expectations after understanding the features and descriptions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 is excellent. The materials used are durable and well-made, and the stock feels solid and reliable. The pistol grip design is comfortable and provides a secure hold, even with wet or gloved hands.
The stock is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Installation is straightforward (with the correct tools), and the pistol grip design is intuitive. The ergonomic benefits are immediately apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
The KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 is designed to last. The synthetic materials are resistant to wear and tear. Regular cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe down the stock.
The stock is easy to maintain and repair, with no complex components. The recoil reduction system is self-contained and requires no special maintenance. A simple wipe down is all that is needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 includes installation hardware and a recoil absorbing butt pad. The stock is compatible with most standard 12-gauge shotshell carriers. Drilling is required for installation of the shell carrier.
The stock itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond the shell carrier. However, the enhanced ergonomics and recoil reduction provide a significant upgrade over the original stock. Additional customization options could include different pistol grip styles or adjustable cheek rests, but these are not currently offered.
Pros and Cons of KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, allowing for longer and more comfortable shooting sessions.
- Pistol grip design provides enhanced ergonomics and control.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively easy to install (with the correct tools).
- Modernizes the classic Ithaca 37 with improved handling and comfort.
Cons
- Requires a long-arm ball end Allen wrench for installation, which is not included.
- Drilling is required for installation of the shotshell carrier.
Who Should Buy KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37?
Perfect for: Hunters who spend extended periods in the field, clay shooters looking to reduce shoulder fatigue, and anyone who finds the recoil of the Ithaca 37 uncomfortable. The stock is an excellent choice for individuals seeking enhanced comfort and control.
Who should skip this product? Those who prefer the classic look and feel of the original wooden stock, or those unwilling to perform the drilling required for the shotshell carrier. Traditionalists or those who don’t mind recoil are potentially bad fits.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality 12-gauge shotshell carrier and the necessary drill bits for installation. A comfortable sling could also enhance the overall shooting experience. The addition of high-quality shotshells will complement the stock’s enhanced capabilities.
Conclusion on KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37
The KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to enhance the comfort and handling of their Ithaca 37 shotgun. The recoil reduction system is effective, and the pistol grip design provides a more ergonomic and secure hold. While the installation requires a specific tool and drilling for the shell carrier, the benefits far outweigh the minor inconveniences.
The price of $99.99 is justified by the significant improvement in shooting comfort and control. Considering the cost of aftermarket recoil pads and other ergonomic enhancements, the KickLite offers excellent value. The stock is a significant cost-effective upgrade.
I would personally recommend the KickLite PG Sporter Stock – Ithaca 37 to anyone seeking to tame the recoil of their Ithaca 37 and improve their overall shooting experience. If you’re tired of a sore shoulder after a day at the range, this stock is the answer. Upgrade your Ithaca 37 today and experience the difference!