I had 3 Ruger No1's 300Win mag, 375 H&H tropical, and 45-70 light sporter. The 45-70 recoiled ferociously with max loads (400gr at 2150fps). I installed a kick-ease recoil pad and did not notice a bit of difference! I traded my entire arsenal in on a new merkel double in 375 H&H which does not have a pad and I'm not putting one on.