First Impressions of KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad
Recoil can be a real pain, especially for younger shooters or those sensitive to it. The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad promises to tame that beast, making shooting more comfortable and accurate. Does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
I’ve been teaching my niece to shoot, and she’s understandably flinching from the recoil of my old 20-gauge. I needed a solution that wouldn’t break the bank and would allow her to enjoy the sport without developing a fear of the gun.
Upon unboxing, the KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad feels solid and well-made. The polymer material has a reassuring density, and the overall construction looks durable. My initial impression is that it’s a no-nonsense product designed to do one thing well.
Compared to a cheaper slip-on pad I tried earlier, the KICK-EEZ feels significantly more substantial and confidence-inspiring. A Pachmayr Decelerator pad offers similar recoil reduction but typically requires professional installation and is a more expensive option. I ultimately chose the KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad for its balance of recoil reduction, ease of installation, and price.
I was cautiously optimistic; recoil reduction is always a bit of a gamble, but the KICK-EEZ‘s reputation for using Sorbothane gave me hope. This pad promised significant recoil absorption, something my niece desperately needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad at my local shooting range with my niece and her 20-gauge shotgun. The weather was mild, and the range was relatively quiet, providing a good controlled environment. After a quick installation, my niece was ready to shoot.
The immediate difference was noticeable; her flinching was significantly reduced. The pad absorbed a considerable amount of the recoil, making the shooting experience far more comfortable for her. The KICK-EEZ really seemed to mitigate the sharp kick of the shotgun.
There was a slight adjustment period as she got used to the added length of pull. However, this was a minor issue compared to the dramatic improvement in her shooting comfort and accuracy. No other surprises occurred; installation was easy, and the KICK-EEZ performed as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad continues to perform admirably. My niece’s confidence has grown exponentially, and her shooting accuracy has improved accordingly. She now enjoys shooting without fear.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear despite repeated use. The polymer material seems to be holding up well and doesn’t show any signs of compression or cracking. The pad remains securely attached to the stock, without loosening.
Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my past experiences with other recoil pads that quickly deteriorated or lost their effectiveness, the KICK-EEZ has been a standout performer. It noticeably outperforms the factory pad and other cheaper alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad
Specifications
The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad is made from Sorbothane, a visco-elastic polymer renowned for its cushioning properties. It is designed to fit stocks that have been shortened, with screw holes spaced 2 3/4″ apart. The pad is available in one size and one thickness only.
- Manufacturer: KICK-EEZ
- Fabric/Material: Polymer
- Size: One Size
- Screw Hole Spacing: 2 3/4″
These specifications are critical for effective recoil reduction. The Sorbothane material ensures maximum absorption of the recoil’s impact. The smaller size and screw hole spacing make it ideal for youth or compact firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad excels at its primary function: reducing felt recoil. It absorbs a significant amount of the impact, making shooting more comfortable, especially for those sensitive to recoil. This leads to improved accuracy and reduced flinching.
The major strength is its ability to drastically reduce recoil without adding excessive bulk or weight. A minor weakness could be the limited sizing options; it might not be a perfect fit for all stocks without some modification. It absolutely meets and exceeds expectations, transforming the shooting experience for young or recoil-sensitive individuals.
Design & Ergonomics
The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad boasts a straightforward, functional design. The polymer material is durable and provides a comfortable contact point with the shoulder. The overall design prioritizes function over aesthetics.
The build quality is solid, and the pad feels substantial without being overly heavy. It’s user-friendly, requiring minimal effort for installation and offering immediate improvement in shooting comfort. No real learning curve is involved; it’s a simple and effective solution.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust polymer construction, the KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad is expected to last for many years with proper care. The material resists wear and tear, maintaining its cushioning properties over time. This suggests a long product lifespan.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. It’s an easy-to-maintain accessory. No specialized cleaning products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad does not come with any additional accessories. Its primary function is to replace the existing recoil pad on a firearm. There are no stated customization options directly associated with the pad.
The pad is compatible with various firearms, provided the stock dimensions and screw hole spacing match. No specific brand compatibility is listed, but it can be paired with aftermarket stock shims for fine-tuning the fit and adjusting the length of pull.
Pros and Cons of KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad
Pros
- Significant Recoil Reduction: Dramatically reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort and accuracy.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process with basic tools.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality Sorbothane polymer for long-lasting performance.
- Improved Shooting Experience: Allows for longer shooting sessions without discomfort or fatigue.
- Increased Confidence: Reduces flinching, leading to improved accuracy and greater shooter confidence.
Cons
- Limited Sizing: Only available in one size, which may require modifications for some stocks.
- Aesthetics: Prioritizes function over form, which may not appeal to all users.
Who Should Buy KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad?
The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad is perfect for youth shooters, women, and anyone sensitive to recoil. It’s also ideal for hunters and sport shooters who want to improve their accuracy and reduce fatigue during long shooting sessions. Those with shoulder injuries or chronic pain will especially benefit from the recoil reduction.
Those seeking a highly customizable pad with multiple sizing options or those concerned with aesthetics might want to explore alternative solutions. A custom-fitted recoil pad or an adjustable stock may be a better fit.
A screwdriver is essential for installation. Stock shims can further fine-tune the fit and length of pull.
Conclusion on KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad
The KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad is a highly effective and affordable solution for mitigating recoil. It delivers on its promise of reducing felt recoil, leading to a more comfortable and enjoyable shooting experience. Its ease of installation and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any shooter sensitive to recoil.
At $56.99, the price is justified by the significant improvement in shooting comfort and accuracy. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can transform the shooting experience.
I would absolutely recommend the KICK-EEZ Junior Recoil Pad to anyone looking to reduce recoil and improve their shooting comfort. It’s a game-changer for young shooters and anyone sensitive to recoil. Give the KICK-EEZ a try and rediscover the joy of shooting without the pain.