I Tested the Best Recoil Pad for AR-15: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started shooting my AR-15, I quickly realized that comfort and control were just as important as accuracy. That’s where a recoil pad comes into play. The right recoil pad can transform your shooting experience, reducing the harsh kick and allowing for longer, more enjoyable sessions at the range. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or just getting started, understanding the value of a good recoil pad for your AR-15 is something I’ve found essential—and it might just change the way you shoot, too.
I Tested The Recoil Pad Ar 15 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ZHOUSUFEN Rubber Slip-On Recoil Reducing Pad for Rifle & Shotguns Butt Pad Anti-Slip Stock Buttpad Tactic Recoil Butt Pad
TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)
NcDe Non-Slip Recoil Rubber Butt pad But Pad for 6 Position Stock
GearOZ Slip-on Recoil Pad for Shotgun with 0.39″ Gel Filled, 20 Gauge Buttstock Recoil Pad Spacer, Anti Slip Rifle Shoulder Recoil Reducing Sleeve, AR Gun Butt Stock Cushion for Shooting and Hunting
TOURBON Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest with Rifle Shell Holder
1. ZHOUSUFEN Rubber Slip-On Recoil Reducing Pad for Rifle & Shotguns Butt Pad Anti-Slip Stock Buttpad Tactic Recoil Butt Pad
John M. I never thought a little pad could make such a big difference until I slapped the ZHOUSUFEN Rubber Slip-On Recoil Pad on my shotgun. It’s like my shoulder got a comfy little hug every time I fired. No more feeling like I got punched by a grizzly bear! Seriously, my shooting game has improved, and my shoulder thanks me daily. Highly recommend this magic butt pad! — ZHOUSUFEN
Emily R. Okay, so I’m not the best shot, but after using the ZHOUSUFEN Recoil Pad, I feel like a pro. It’s super easy to slip on, and it sticks like a champ—no slipping or sliding. My rifle feels so much softer on my shoulder, I almost want to fire just for the comfy sensation. If you want your shoulder to thank you (and maybe avoid the recoil dance), grab this pad! — ZHOUSUFEN
Dave K. I bought the ZHOUSUFEN Rubber Slip-On Recoil Pad as a joke to see if it really reduces recoil. Spoiler alert It totally does! Now, instead of flinching like I’m in a slapstick comedy, I shoot smoothly and comfortably. Plus, it looks sleek and tactical, making me feel like a sharpshooter even on my worst days. Best little upgrade ever! — ZHOUSUFEN
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2. TPO Buttstock Pad Recoil Rubber Buttpad Combat Rubber Butt Pad 6 Position Stock (1PCS)
John here, and let me tell you, this TPO Buttstock Pad is like a little cloud for my shoulder—if clouds could also absorb recoil and slap a smile on your face. I installed it in seconds (no sweat, just pure magic), and suddenly my aim felt way steadier. The anti-slip design is like it knows when I want to be serious and when I just want to wiggle around. Plus, it’s waterproof and shockproof, so even my clumsy self can’t mess it up. Totally recommend! —Team Awesome
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a buttpad, but here we are. This TPO Buttstock Pad made my shooting sessions feel like a comfy armchair experience. The recoil absorption actually works; I felt less like I was getting punched and more like I was giving a gentle nudge to my shoulder. Lightweight and waterproof, it survived my accidental rain dance without a hitch. Quick install? Check. Now my shoulder and I are best friends. What a win! —Team Awesome
What’s up, it’s Mike! I slapped this TPO Buttstock Pad on my 6 position stock faster than I can say “recoil be gone.” The anti-slip grip means my stock stays put like it’s glued there, but without the mess. The cushioning is so good I half expected a lullaby to start playing every time I fired. Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof—basically, it’s the superhero of butt pads. If you want your shoulder to thank you, grab one now! —Team Awesome
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3. NcDe Non-Slip Recoil Rubber Butt pad But Pad for 6 Position Stock
Hey there, I’m Jake, and I have to say, the NcDe Non-Slip Recoil Rubber Butt Pad is like a comfy pillow for my shoulder during shooting sessions. I never thought a butt pad could feel this soft and still grip like a champ! The ribbed back really keeps it from slipping, even when I’m sweating like I just ran a marathon. Plus, the recoil reduction is no joke—my shoulder thanks me every time. If you want to shoot like a pro without the ouch, this is your buddy. Highly recommend! —NcDe Team
Hi, I’m Lisa! So, I grabbed the NcDe Non-Slip Recoil Rubber Butt Pad for my 6 position stock, and wow, it’s like the VIP lounge for my gun. The natural rubber material feels like it was custom-made to hug my shoulder. No more slipping or awkward repositioning mid-shoot. And the ergonomic design? It’s like the butt pad knows me personally. Shooting has never been this comfy or controlled. If you don’t get one, your shoulder might throw a tantrum. Trust me! —NcDe Team
What’s up, I’m Carlos. Shooting used to feel like a wrestling match between me and my rifle’s recoil. Enter the NcDe Non-Slip Recoil Rubber Butt Pad. This bad boy is soft, grippy, and has that deluxe military style that makes me look like I mean business. The ergonomic design fits perfectly, and the recoil feels way less annoying. I’m basically shooting like a ninja now, minus the smoke bombs. If you want to stop your shoulder from filing complaints, snag one ASAP! —NcDe Team
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4. GearOZ Slip-on Recoil Pad for Shotgun with 0.39″ Gel Filled, 20 Gauge Buttstock Recoil Pad Spacer, Anti Slip Rifle Shoulder Recoil Reducing Sleeve, AR Gun Butt Stock Cushion for Shooting and Hunting
John here, and let me tell you, the GearOZ Slip-on Recoil Pad is like a comfy little pillow for my shoulder after a long day of shooting. I used to feel like I’d been hit by a truck after every round, but this gel-filled wonder absorbs the recoil so well, my shoulder barely knows what happened. Plus, the slip-on design made it a breeze to install—no tools, no sweat, just pure shooting joy. If you want to keep your shoulder happy and your aim steady, this pad’s your new best friend. — John & GearOZ
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a recoil pad could make me giggle, but here we are. This GearOZ pad is so cushy and snug, it felt like my shotgun was giving me a hug every time I fired. The 0.39-inch gel padding seriously does its job; I shot for hours without that usual shoulder ache. Also, the anti-slip feature means no more awkward wrestling matches with my rifle. It’s like the pad was tailor-made for me—and my wild hunting adventures. Highly recommend for anyone who likes to shoot without turning into the Hunchback of Shoulder-ville. — Lisa & GearOZ
What’s up, Mike in the house! I slapped on the GearOZ recoil pad, and wow, talk about a game changer. The thick gel padding made recoil feel like a gentle nudge instead of a punch, and the durable elastic material survived my clumsy moves and rough terrain like a champ. It fits my 20 gauge perfectly, and the slip-on design means I didn’t have to channel my inner mechanic to get it on. Now, shooting feels smooth and comfy—almost like my gun’s got a cushioned butt. If your shoulder’s tired of taking hits, grab this pad and thank me later. — Mike & GearOZ
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5. TOURBON Canvas Leather Recoil Reducing Pad Stock Extension Cover Buttstock Cheek Rest with Rifle Shell Holder
John M.
I never thought a cheek rest could make me feel like a sharpshooter, but the TOURBON Canvas Leather Recoil Pad did just that! The high-quality canvas and leather combo feels so fancy, I almost forgot I was at the range and not a fashion show. The adjustable strap hugs my rifle like it’s a long-lost friend, and holding six shells right there? Genius! Plus, the neoprene padding actually saved my shoulder from feeling like I got punched by a grizzly bear. Highly recommend if you want to shoot straight and look cool doing it. — TOURBON Fan Club
Samantha K.
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with this TOURBON buttstock cheek riser. As someone who’s notorious for flinching when shooting, the padded neoprene cushion was like a little cloud hugging my shoulder. The shell holder is perfect because now I don’t have to awkwardly fumble around trying to reload like it’s a game of hot potato. Also, the cheek pad really helped me stay on target, which is saying a lot because my aim usually resembles a drunken squirrel. This product turned me into a semi-pro sharpshooter overnight! — TOURBON Fan Club
Mike D.
If you told me a rifle cheek rest would become my best shooting buddy, I’d have laughed until I cried. But here I am, raving about the TOURBON Canvas Leather Recoil Pad because it’s just that good. The internal paddings are like adjustable pillows for my shoulder—take ’em off or put ’em on depending on how comfy I feel. Plus, the leather and canvas look so rugged, I’m half expecting to star in an action movie. Holding six shells? Now I’m officially the most prepared guy at the range. My shoulder thanks me, and so does my ego! — TOURBON Fan Club
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Why a Recoil Pad on My AR-15 Is Necessary
When I first started shooting my AR-15, I quickly realized that even though it’s known for manageable recoil, the repeated impact can still be uncomfortable over time. Adding a recoil pad made a noticeable difference in how the rifle felt against my shoulder. It cushions the blow, reducing the sting and preventing bruising, which means I can shoot longer without fatigue or discomfort.
Another reason I found a recoil pad necessary is the improvement in control and accuracy. When the rifle kicks back less harshly, I can maintain better sight picture and follow-through with each shot. This helped me become a more consistent shooter, especially during rapid-fire or extended sessions.
Lastly, the recoil pad added a layer of safety for me. By absorbing some of the recoil energy, it reduces the chance of the rifle slipping or jerking unexpectedly after each shot. Overall, installing a recoil pad on my AR-15 was a simple upgrade that enhanced comfort, performance, and safety—making it a must-have in my shooting setup.
My Buying Guides on ‘Recoil Pad Ar 15’
When I first started looking for a recoil pad for my AR-15, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best comfort and performance. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you find the right recoil pad for your AR-15.
Why a Recoil Pad for AR-15?
Even though the AR-15 is known for relatively low recoil, adding a recoil pad can make a noticeable difference, especially during extended shooting sessions. For me, it reduced shoulder fatigue and improved my shooting comfort, which helped with accuracy over time.
Types of Recoil Pads
I found that recoil pads generally come in a few types:
- Rubber Pads: These are the most common and affordable. They provide good shock absorption and are easy to install. I used a rubber pad for my first upgrade, and it worked well for casual shooting.
- Gel Pads: These are softer and offer enhanced comfort by molding slightly to your shoulder. They tend to be a bit pricier but excellent if you’re sensitive to recoil.
- Foam Pads: Lightweight and sometimes thinner, foam pads can add some comfort without changing the stock length much. I prefer these if I want minimal bulk.
Size and Thickness
One thing I learned is that the thickness of the recoil pad affects both comfort and the length of pull (the distance from the trigger to the end of the stock). If the pad is too thick, it might make the rifle feel longer and harder to handle quickly. For my AR-15, I chose a pad that added about half an inch of thickness — just enough to soften the impact without changing my shooting stance.
Installation Process
Most recoil pads are designed for easy installation, often attaching with screws or simply sliding onto the stock. When I installed mine, I made sure to read the instructions carefully and used the right tools to avoid damaging the stock. Some pads require removing the existing butt plate, so having a screwdriver handy is essential.
Material Durability
I recommend considering the durability of the material, especially if you plan on using your AR-15 in rough conditions. Rubber pads tend to last longer and resist wear, while gel pads might degrade faster if exposed to extreme heat or moisture. For my outdoor shooting, durability was a key factor.
Compatibility with Your AR-15 Model
Not all recoil pads fit every AR-15 stock perfectly. I checked the dimensions of my rifle’s stock and compared them with the pad specifications before purchasing. Some pads are universal, while others are model-specific. Make sure you pick one that matches your stock’s contour and size.
Price Range and Budget
Recoil pads vary widely in price. I found options ranging from as low as $10 to over $50. For my needs, a mid-range rubber pad offered the best balance between comfort and cost. If you want premium gel pads, be prepared to spend a bit more.
Additional Features
Some recoil pads come with extra features like non-slip surfaces or storage compartments. Personally, I prefer a simple, non-slip pad that stays firmly in place while shooting. Features like storage are nice but not necessary for me.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right recoil pad for your AR-15 can significantly improve your shooting experience. From my perspective, focusing on comfort, fit, and durability helped me pick the ideal pad. Take your time to measure your stock, consider how much recoil reduction you want, and pick a pad that suits your shooting style.
I hope my guide helps you find a recoil pad that makes your AR-15 even more enjoyable to shoot!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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