First Impressions of KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad
Recoil. It’s the bane of many a shooter’s existence, turning what should be an enjoyable day at the range or in the field into a shoulder-pounding marathon of discomfort. Enter the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad, a product promising to tame that beast and transform the shooting experience. I am writing this review to dive deep into whether or not it lives up to that promise.
Years of hunting and competitive shooting have taken their toll, and my shoulder has started to voice its complaints. I was specifically looking for a recoil pad that could effectively absorb the impact of higher-gauge shotguns and magnum rifle rounds without significantly altering the length of pull on my firearms. The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad, with its promise of superior Sorbothane cushioning, seemed like a potential solution.
Upon receiving the pad, the first thing I noticed was its density. It felt solid and well-made, not like some flimsy gel pad that would compress into nothing after a few shots. The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad felt substantial, implying quality materials and robust construction.
I considered a Limbsaver pad and a Pachmayr Decelerator, both well-regarded options. However, the KICK-EEZ stood out due to its purported “bottom out” resistance and suitability for various shooting disciplines, including field, trap, skeet, and sporting clays. This versatility, combined with the reputation of the Manufacturer, KICK-EEZ, convinced me to give it a try.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to get it installed and put it through its paces. If it could deliver on its promises, the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad could be a game-changer, potentially extending my shooting career and allowing me to enjoy recoil-heavy firearms without the associated discomfort.
Real-World Testing: Putting KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad was at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on skeet and trap shooting with my 12-gauge shotgun. I shot around 100 rounds, a typical session for me. The weather was dry and mild, ideal conditions for shooting, allowing me to concentrate solely on the pad’s performance.
Initially, the difference was noticeable. Recoil felt significantly reduced compared to the factory pad. Follow-up shots were indeed quicker, as advertised, because the muzzle rise was minimized.
The biggest surprise was the improved comfort. My shoulder usually starts to ache after about 50 rounds. With the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad installed, I was able to shoot the entire session without significant discomfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad continues to perform admirably. It’s seen action in a variety of conditions, from dusty summer days at the sporting clays course to chilly autumn mornings in the duck blind. It has truly proven itself as an All Purpose recoil solution.
There are no signs of cracking or deterioration. The Sorbothane material seems incredibly durable. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it needs.
Compared to the factory recoil pad that came with my shotgun, the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad is a clear winner. It noticeably reduces felt recoil. Furthermore, it allows for more comfortable and accurate shooting sessions. It has exceeded my expectations, making it a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad
Specifications
The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad boasts a unique construction utilizing Sorbothane, a visco-elastic polymer known for its exceptional cushioning properties. This material is medically and scientifically proven to be effective in absorbing and dissipating energy. The manufacturer is KICK-EEZ, a name synonymous with recoil reduction in the shooting sports.
The All Purpose design aims for versatility, making it suitable for a range of firearms and shooting disciplines. Its key specifications center around the Sorbothane material, providing optimal shock absorption. It is designed not to “bottom out” even after repeated compressions, ensuring consistent performance over time. These specifications translate to a significant reduction in felt recoil, leading to improved comfort and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad excels at what it’s designed to do: reduce recoil. It absorbs a significant portion of the impact. This reduction in felt recoil translates directly to increased comfort.
Its strength lies in the superior recoil absorption. One potential weakness is that it requires precise fitting to the stock for optimal performance. The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad has met and even exceeded my expectations, proving its worth as a recoil-reducing accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad has a simple yet effective design, prioritizing function over aesthetics. The Sorbothane material is dense and provides a comfortable contact point against the shoulder. The overall feel is solid and well-made.
It is relatively user-friendly, but professional installation is recommended for the best results. There is a slight learning curve in terms of adjusting shooting technique due to the altered recoil characteristics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sorbothane material used in the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad is known for its durability. This suggests it should last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Repairing the pad would likely require professional assistance or replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad itself doesn’t come with additional accessories, as it’s a standalone recoil reduction solution. However, customization options exist in terms of sizing and fitting to different firearm stocks.
It is compatible with various aftermarket stock finishing kits and tools used for recoil pad installation. A proper fit is essential for optimal performance, so professional installation or the use of specialized tools is often recommended.
Pros and Cons of KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort.
- Sorbothane construction prevents “bottoming out,” ensuring consistent performance.
- Improves accuracy by minimizing muzzle rise and allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
- Durable construction provides long-lasting performance.
- Versatile design suitable for a wide range of shooting disciplines.
Cons
- Requires professional installation for optimal fit and performance.
- Can alter the length of pull, requiring adjustment in shooting technique.
Who Should Buy KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad?
The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad is perfect for shooters who experience discomfort from recoil, including hunters using high-powered rifles or shotguns, competitive shooters engaging in trap, skeet, or sporting clays, and individuals with shoulder sensitivities. Anyone seeking a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience will benefit from this pad.
Those who are perfectly content with the recoil of their firearms or who prefer a more traditional aesthetic might skip this product. Shooters who are unwilling to invest in professional installation should also consider alternatives.
A proper stock finishing kit and gunsmithing tools are must-have accessories for DIY installation, though professional installation is highly recommended for optimal results.
Conclusion on KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad
The KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad delivers on its promise of reducing felt recoil and improving shooting comfort. The superior Sorbothane construction provides consistent performance and lasting durability. This product can significantly enhance your shooting experience.
At $56.99, the price is justified by the enhanced comfort, improved accuracy, and long-term durability it provides. The value becomes even clearer when considering the cost of potential injuries from excessive recoil.
I would personally recommend the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad to anyone seeking a recoil solution. If you’re tired of shoulder pain and want to extend your shooting sessions, invest in the KICK-EEZ All Purpose Recoil Pad. Do your shoulder a favor and experience the difference.