Blackbear,

I think you are worring the recoil to death. Here are a few facts:

1. Bullet weight makes the biggest difference in recoil. Stay with 300-350 and you'll be fine with your 9 lbs. ruger #1.

2. Recoil pads really don't help much. Stick with the rubber pad on your ruger and hold the gun tightly against you shoulder.

3. Shoot from the kneeling position. Your moment arm is less, so your body motion is reduced.

4. Work up to heavy loads. You need to train you body and mind.