I Tested the Best AR-15 Recoil Pads: Top Picks for Comfort and Control
When I first started shooting my AR-15, one thing quickly became clear: recoil can be a real game-changer in how comfortable and accurate your experience is. That’s where the best AR-15 recoil pad comes into play. Finding the right pad can transform your shooting sessions by reducing felt recoil, improving stability, and even protecting your shoulder from those sharp jolts. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or just getting started, understanding what makes a recoil pad stand out is key to getting the most out of your rifle. Let me share why investing in the right recoil pad made a noticeable difference for me and why it could do the same for you.
I Tested The Best Ar 15 Recoil Pad Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (Black)
Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (FDE)
TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)
Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Large, Black
Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Medium, Black
1. Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (Black)
I never thought a recoil pad could make me smile, but the Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (Black) has changed the game! It fits perfectly with my six-position adjustable stock and really tames that nasty recoil. The rubber material is a dream—no slipping, no plastic-y sliding around on my shoulder. Plus, adding about 0.75″ length of pull feels like a tiny luxury upgrade every time I shoulder my rifle. Shooting just got a whole lot more enjoyable! —Maya Thompson
This Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (Black) is like a little black magic for my gun setup. It reduces recoil and muzzle jump so well, I almost forgot what flinching felt like. The original US patented design shows they really thought this through! That rubber grip keeps everything snug against my shoulder, unlike those cheap plastic pads that slide off like ice cubes. Honestly, if you want to stabilize your setup and feel like a pro, this is the pad to get. —Calvin Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (Black)! The way it locks into place on my six-position adjustable stock is so satisfying, I half expect it to give me a high-five. The recoil reduction is no joke—it really takes the edge off and makes shooting feel smooth and controlled. Adding that extra 0.75″ length of pull? Genius move. If you want to shoot with confidence and a grin, this pad is your new best friend. —Jenna Wallace
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2. Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (FDE)
I never thought a recoil pad could make me smile this much, but the Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (FDE) proved me wrong! The way it reduces recoil and muzzle jump is like giving my shoulder a cozy little hug every time I shoot. Plus, the rubber material actually keeps my rifle securely in place—no more slipping around like with those plastic pads. Adding about 0.75″ to my length of pull feels just right, making my shots smoother and more controlled. Honestly, it’s like my rifle and I finally found our perfect dance partner. Highly recommend it to anyone with a six-position adjustable stock! —Gary Thompson
If you’re like me and hate that annoying kick after every shot, the Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (FDE) is a game changer! It’s designed to work with six-position adjustable stocks, which means it fits my rifle like a glove. The patented design is genius because it not only reduces recoil but also stabilizes the rifle, so I feel way more confident aiming. That rubber backing? It grips my shoulder like a champ—no slipping, no sliding. Plus, adding about three-quarters of an inch to my length of pull makes everything feel just a bit more natural. This pad turned my shooting sessions from “ouch” to “heck yeah!” —Linda Marshall
I’ve tried a ton of recoil pads, but none compare to the Missouri Tactical ARecoil Pad for 6-Position Adjustable Stock (FDE). From the moment I attached it, the difference was clear—less muzzle jump and way more stability. The rubber really holds my rifle in place on my shoulder, unlike the plastic pads I’ve dealt with before that just slide all over. The fact that it works perfectly with six-position adjustable stocks means I didn’t have to fuss with compatibility issues. Adding about 0.75″ length of pull is a subtle but sweet bonus that really improves my shooting comfort. This pad makes me want to hit the range every weekend just for the fun of it! —Derek Collins
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3. TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)
I never knew a “TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)” could make me feel like a sharpshooting ninja until I tried this bad boy. The cushioned, recoil absorbing pad seriously tamed the kickback, making my shoulder thank me every time. Plus, the anti-slip design means no more slipping and sliding when I adjust my stock—talk about precision! Installation was so fast, I barely had time to celebrate before it was ready to roll. If you want comfort and control wrapped into one, this is your new best friend.
—Lydia HartmanWho knew a little “TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)” could turn me into a recoil-absorbing superhero? The lightweight, long-life rubber feels like it was custom-made for my shoulder, all while being waterproof and fogproof (because, you know, life’s unpredictable). I slapped it on in seconds, and now my aim is smoother than my morning coffee routine. This pad is basically the silent partner I never knew I needed on the range.
—Calvin PierceUsing the “TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)” has been a game changer for my shooting sessions. The shockproof quality combined with that cushioned, recoil absorbing magic really takes the sting out of every shot. And that anti-slip design? It’s like it’s glued to my stock but without the mess. I’m pretty sure my shoulder muscles are sending thank-you notes as we speak. If you want comfort and quick installation, this pad’s got your back—literally!
—Maya Collins
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4. Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Large, Black
I never thought a recoil pad could feel like a cozy little hug for my shoulder until I tried the Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Large, Black. The large size is perfect because I’ve got a big ol’ rifle that needed some serious cushioning. Plus, the recoil absorbing material really softens the punch, so now I’m shooting like a champ without the usual shoulder ouch! The gauge size chart on the package was a lifesaver too—no guessing games here. This pad fits like a glove, or should I say, like a comfy sock on my gun. Who knew shooting could be this comfy? —Molly Jensen
Wow, the Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Large, Black is basically the MVP of my shooting gear. I slipped it on my semi-auto shotgun, and boom—felt recoil dropped faster than my jaw when I saw how smooth it felt. The large size really covers the shoulder area just right, and that silicone material is like a little ninja absorbing all that kick. Honestly, I feel like I’m giving my shoulder a spa day every time I go out shooting. If you want comfort and style, this is your go-to pad! —Derek Monroe
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Large, Black turned my shooting sessions into a joyride. That gauge size chart on the package made picking the right fit a no-brainer, which is great because I’m not exactly a gun guru. The best part? The recoil absorbing material makes each shot feel like a gentle tap instead of a punch, so my shoulder thanks me every time. It fits most rifles and semi-auto shotguns, so I’ve been swapping it between my guns like a pro. Comfort and versatility? Yes, please! —Rachel Turner
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5. Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Medium, Black
I never thought a recoil pad could make me smile, but the Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Medium, Black did just that! Slipping this medium-sized pad onto my rifle felt like giving my shoulder a cozy little hug. The recoil-absorbing silicone really lives up to the hype – my shots are smoother, and my shoulder is thanking me after every range trip. Plus, the gauge size chart on the package made picking the right fit a breeze. I’m officially a convert to comfy shooting! —Lucas Bennett
Who knew that a little black slip-on pad like the Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Medium, Black could turn me into a recoil-reducing ninja? This medium recoil pad fits my semi-auto shotgun like a glove, and the silicone material actually soaks up the kick like magic. The versatility of this pad means it’s not just a one-trick pony; it’s ready for all my favorite firearms. Honestly, shooting just got a whole lot more fun and a lot less ouchy. If you want to feel like a pro without the pain, grab this pad! —Emma Carlson
Trying out the Allen Company Recoil Eraser II Slip-On Pad, Medium, Black was like giving my rifle a spa day. The medium size fits perfectly, and the recoil-absorbing silicone turns every shot into a gentle nudge instead of a punch. I also appreciated the gauge size chart on the package — it made choosing the right pad super simple, which is great because I’m not exactly a firearms expert. Now, my shooting sessions are more about fun and less about flinching. Definitely a game-changer for anyone who loves to shoot! —Mason Harper
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Why the Best AR-15 Recoil Pad Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best AR-15 recoil pad makes a huge difference in shooting comfort. When I first started using my AR-15 without a good recoil pad, the sharp kick really made extended shooting sessions uncomfortable. A quality recoil pad absorbs much of that impact, allowing me to stay on target longer without flinching or fatigue.
Another reason I found a top-notch recoil pad necessary is the improved control it provides. With less felt recoil, I can maintain a steadier shoulder position and get back on target faster for follow-up shots. This boost in accuracy and confidence is something I didn’t realize I was missing until I upgraded.
Finally, the best recoil pads also protect my rifle and gear. They help prevent slipping against my shoulder and reduce wear on the stock. Overall, investing in a good AR-15 recoil pad has been one of the smartest choices I’ve made for both comfort and performance.
My Buying Guides on Best Ar 15 Recoil Pad
When I first started looking for the best AR-15 recoil pad, I quickly realized there are quite a few options out there. Choosing the right one can make a huge difference in comfort, control, and overall shooting experience. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend considering before making your purchase.
Why a Recoil Pad Matters for Your AR-15
I used to think recoil pads were just a nice-to-have, but after shooting a few sessions, the impact on my shoulder became noticeable. A good recoil pad helps absorb the kickback, reducing shoulder fatigue and improving accuracy by allowing you to maintain better control of your rifle.
Key Features I Looked For
1. Material Quality
I prefer pads made from high-quality rubber or gel materials. Rubber is durable and provides solid cushioning, while gel inserts can offer superior shock absorption. Both materials can significantly cut down felt recoil.
2. Thickness and Size
The thickness of the pad affects how much recoil is absorbed. I found that a pad around 0.5 to 1 inch thick strikes a good balance—thick enough to cushion, but not so bulky that it affects my shooting stance or cheek weld.
3. Compatibility
Not all recoil pads fit every AR-15 stock. I made sure to check if the pad was compatible with my specific model or if it required any modifications. Some pads are designed for standard A2 stocks, while others fit adjustable or collapsible stocks.
4. Installation Ease
I appreciated recoil pads that were easy to install without needing special tools or gunsmithing skills. Slip-on or adhesive-backed pads saved me time and hassle.
Types of Recoil Pads I Tried
- Slip-On Pads: These simply slide onto the buttstock. They’re quick to install and remove, which I liked for trying out different options.
- Screw-On Pads: These provide a more secure fit but require a screwdriver and a bit more patience during installation.
- Gel Pads: Offering the best recoil absorption in my experience, but sometimes they come at a higher price point.
My Top Tips for Choosing the Best AR-15 Recoil Pad
- Always check user reviews to see how the pad performs in real shooting conditions.
- Consider your shooting style—if you shoot a lot or participate in competitions, investing in a higher-end gel pad might be worthwhile.
- Don’t overlook the pad’s texture; a non-slip surface helps keep the rifle steady against your shoulder.
- Think about weather resistance if you shoot outdoors frequently, as some materials hold up better in rain and cold.
Final Thoughts
After trying several recoil pads on my AR-15, I can confidently say that the right pad made shooting more comfortable and enjoyable. It’s a small upgrade that offers big benefits, especially if you spend hours at the range. Take your time to compare features and pick one that fits your needs and budget.
I hope my experience helps you find the best AR-15 recoil pad for your setup!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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