Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick Review

First Thoughts on the Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick

After years of shouldering shotguns, I’ve become intimately familiar with the pain of recoil, especially during long sporting clays sessions. That’s why the Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick caught my eye; the promise of reduced felt recoil and a faster gun mount was too enticing to ignore. This recoil pad, manufactured by Pachmayr, boasts a patented design and their famous Decelerator material, aiming to bridge the gap between comfort and performance.

I was searching for a solution to the shoulder fatigue that inevitably sets in after a couple of rounds on the clays course. Several of my shooting buddies had recommended recoil pads, and I was looking for something that wouldn’t add too much length to pull while still offering significant recoil reduction. I wanted something that allowed for fast target acquisition too.

Upon receiving the Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad, I was immediately impressed with the feel of the materials. The hard rubber heel instilled confidence, and the Decelerator material had a reassuring give. The pad felt solid and well-made. Compared to simple slip-on pads, or even some of the more rigid factory-installed options, the Pachmayr appeared to offer a better balance of comfort and function.

I considered a Limbsaver pad, known for their exceptional recoil absorption, but opted for the Pachmayr because of its focus on fast mounting, a crucial element in sporting clays. I also briefly looked at a Kick-Eez pad but felt that the Pachmayr’s classic “Old English” style better suited my shotgun. My initial reaction was excitement; I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype and transformed my shooting experience.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator was at my local sporting clays range. I mounted it on my trusty 12-gauge over-under. The weather was typical for a spring day – a bit breezy and with occasional light rain.

The most immediate difference was the improved gun mount. The hard rubber heel allowed the gun to slide smoothly into my shoulder pocket without catching on my clothing. This translated to a more consistent and faster mount, which is crucial in sporting clays where every fraction of a second counts. I also noticed a significant reduction in felt recoil, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots. There were no issues during the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator continues to perform admirably. There are no visible signs of wear and tear. The Decelerator material still feels as plush as the day I installed it.

The pad has proven to be incredibly durable, withstanding the rigors of frequent use and varying weather conditions. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to previous recoil pads I’ve used, the Pachmayr stands out for its longevity and consistent performance. It has significantly improved my shooting comfort and allowed me to extend my sessions without experiencing shoulder fatigue.

Breaking Down the Features of Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick

Specifications

The Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick boasts several key specifications. Its full length measures 5.50 inches. The width at its widest point is 1.80 inches.

The interior insertion at its widest point is 1.450 inches. The hole measures 3.12 inches, and the depth of the pad (cushion) is .80 inches. These specifications are critical because they determine the fit and effectiveness of the pad. The .80″ thickness offers substantial recoil reduction without excessively lengthening the gun’s overall length.

Performance & Functionality

The Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator excels at its primary function: reducing felt recoil. The Decelerator material effectively absorbs and dissipates energy, making even heavy loads more manageable. The patented design truly does facilitate a faster gun mount, shaving precious milliseconds off target acquisition.

The pad’s performance is exceptional. The hard rubber heel allows for smooth mounting, while the Decelerator material softens the blow of recoil. One minor weakness is that the “medium” size may not perfectly fit all stocks. However, this is easily addressed with some minor fitting by a gunsmith or careful sanding. Overall, the Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator features a classic “Old English” style that complements most shotguns. It is made with a durable leather face and a black base. The build quality is excellent, and the materials feel robust and long-lasting.

The weight is negligible, adding minimal heft to the gun. The pad is designed to be user-friendly, although proper installation requires some gunsmithing skills or careful DIY work. There’s a slight learning curve to getting used to the faster mount, but the benefits are quickly apparent.

Durability & Maintenance

The Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator is built to last. The leather face is resistant to abrasion, and the Decelerator material retains its cushioning properties over time. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed.

With proper care, this recoil pad should provide years of reliable service. The materials used are high-quality and designed to withstand the rigors of regular shooting. The robust construction ensures that it will hold up well under heavy use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone recoil pad. However, it can be easily customized by a gunsmith to perfectly fit your shotgun’s stock. The pad is compatible with various aftermarket stock finishing products, allowing you to achieve a seamless and professional look.

While not a direct accessory, proper fitting is crucial for optimal performance. A well-fitted Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator will dramatically improve your shooting experience. Consider having a gunsmith professionally install and fit the pad for the best results.

Pros and Cons of Pachmayr SC100 Decelerator Sporting Clays Recoil Pad Black, Medium, .80″ Thick