The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8 Made a Bold First Impression
Recoil. It’s the necessary evil of shooting, especially when you start venturing into larger calibers or pushing the limits with magnum loads. As a seasoned shooter with over a decade under my belt, I’ve learned to appreciate the nuances of recoil management, and that’s what led me to the Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8. I was on the hunt for a solution to tame the beast of a 12-gauge I frequently use for waterfowl hunting, a gun that, while effective, left my shoulder feeling like it had gone ten rounds with Mike Tyson.
The Kick Eez pad arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package, which immediately signaled to me that the focus was on function over flash. Pulling it out, the first thing I noticed was its density. This wasn’t some flimsy piece of rubber; it felt substantial, like it could actually absorb some serious energy. I had previously used a slip-on recoil pad and a factory-installed hard rubber pad, but the Kick Eez offered a dramatically different feel – denser, more pliable, and clearly built to withstand the rigors of repeated magnum loads. Initial impressions were surprisingly positive.
Compared to the slip-on, the Kick Eez looked far more professional and promised a secure fit. The factory pad on my shotgun was, frankly, brutal, offering minimal cushioning. I chose the Kick Eez specifically because of its reputation for superior recoil absorption and its “Magnum” designation, indicating it was designed for heavy-hitting rounds. I was excited, bordering on hopeful, that this seemingly simple addition would make a significant difference in my shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad was at my local shooting range, specifically to pattern my 12-gauge with some heavy waterfowl loads. Mounting the gun felt immediately different. The Kick Eez pad provided a more secure and comfortable cheek weld. Recoil was noticeably reduced, particularly with the 3-inch magnum shells I was using.
The difference was significant. Where previously I would wince in anticipation of each shot, the Kick Eez pad softened the blow, making it easier to maintain my sight picture and follow through on my shots. After about 50 rounds, my shoulder felt significantly less fatigued than it usually would after a similar session. There were no surprises, only a welcome decrease in felt recoil and a more pleasant shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a few duck hunting trips in less-than-ideal weather, the Kick Eez pad continues to perform admirably. The dense rubber shows no signs of cracking or deformation, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against trees. Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the pad clean and looking like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with other recoil pads, the Kick Eez is in a different league. The slip-on pad shifted during shooting, negating its effectiveness, while the factory pad was simply inadequate. The Kick Eez pad, once properly installed, stays put and consistently delivers superior recoil absorption, far exceeding my expectations. It’s a true upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8
Specifications
The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8 is specifically designed for magnum loads and larger bore guns. Its dimensions are 2 inches wide, 5 5/8 inches long, and 1 3/8 inches thick, making it a substantial pad suitable for rifles and shotguns that need significant recoil reduction. The hole spacing of 3 & 1/8 inches adds to its adjustability during installation.
These specifications are critical for a few reasons. The thickness (1 3/8 inches) directly contributes to the amount of energy the pad can absorb. The 2 x 5 5/8 inch dimensions allow for a good fit on a wide variety of stocks. The 3 & 1/8 inch hole spacing gives gunsmiths or experienced shooters a degree of flexibility in mounting the pad to their firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad excels at its primary job: reducing felt recoil. The dense, closed-cell rubber effectively absorbs a significant portion of the recoil energy, making shooting heavy loads more comfortable and manageable. While it won’t eliminate recoil entirely, it noticeably softens the blow, allowing for longer shooting sessions and improved accuracy.
Its strengths lie in its superior recoil absorption and durable construction. A potential weakness is that installation requires some gunsmithing skill, as it will likely require sanding and fitting to match the stock perfectly. The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad meets and arguably exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in shooting comfort without compromising the firearm’s handling characteristics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kick Eez pad is constructed from a dense, closed-cell rubber that is both durable and comfortable. The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and blends well with most firearm stocks. The pad feels substantial in hand, conveying a sense of quality and durability.
The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad is user-friendly, but proper installation is key. While a competent shooter can install it themselves, professional gunsmithing is highly recommended to ensure a perfect fit and optimal performance. A perfectly fitted pad prevents snagging and provides a consistent and reliable cheek weld.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kick Eez pad is designed to last for years with proper care. The dense rubber is resistant to cracking, tearing, and deformation, even under heavy use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Due to the high-quality materials and construction, repairs are unlikely to be necessary. However, if damage does occur, a gunsmith can often repair or replace the pad relatively easily. The Kick Eez pad is a long-term investment that will provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of firearms. The user might need to purchase screws suitable for their firearm’s stock.
The main customization aspect is the fitting process. A gunsmith can carefully sand and shape the pad to perfectly match the contours of the stock, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing integration. The pad is compatible with most common stock shapes and sizes, making it a versatile upgrade option.
Pros and Cons of Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, making shooting heavy loads more comfortable.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Provides a more secure and comfortable cheek weld, improving accuracy.
- Versatile design fits a wide range of firearms with proper fitting.
- Relatively simple to maintain and clean.
Cons
- Requires professional gunsmithing for optimal installation and fitting.
- May require additional hardware (screws) for mounting.
Who Should Buy Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8?
The Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8 is perfect for hunters who regularly use magnum loads, competitive shooters seeking to improve their recoil management, and anyone who finds shooting uncomfortable due to excessive recoil. It’s also a great option for shooters with shoulder injuries or sensitivities who want to continue enjoying their sport.
This product might not be necessary for shooters who primarily use light loads or smaller-caliber firearms with minimal recoil. Shooters uncomfortable with modifying their firearm’s stock or unwilling to invest in professional gunsmithing should explore other options, such as slip-on recoil pads (although their performance is typically inferior). A custom stock fitting might also be beneficial in addition to the pad.
Conclusion on Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8
Overall, the Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad 2 X 5 5/8 X 1 3/8 is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to mitigate the effects of heavy recoil. While the $31.49 price tag might seem steep for a piece of rubber, the improved shooting comfort, enhanced accuracy, and long-term durability justify the cost. It offers clear value.
I would absolutely recommend the Kick Eez pad to anyone looking to tame a hard-kicking firearm. The reduction in felt recoil is significant, making shooting more enjoyable and less fatiguing. If you’re tired of flinching or developing a sore shoulder after a day at the range or in the field, the Kick Eez Black Magnum Recoil Pad is the solution you’ve been looking for. Take the plunge and invest in your shooting comfort today!