What Effects Recoil on Shotguns

• Posted on David Jackson
• in Shotguns
• on June 24, 2025
• Comments Off on What Effects Recoil on Shotguns

Getting the right stock fit is important and when it comes to recoil reduction in a shotgun, the following stock dimensions typically have the greatest effect: 

Drop at Heel / Drop at Comb — affecting cheek weld and recoil perception

However, in terms of actual reduction of felt recoil, the most critical stock dimension is the “Length of Pull” (LOP) — the distance from the trigger to the end of the buttstock.

1. Length of Pull (LOP)

🔴 Most impact on felt recoil – Greatest physical effect on recoil among stock dimensions.

• Shorter LOP allows the shooter to better shoulder the gun and absorb recoil through their torso rather than just the shoulder.
• Too long a stock causes the shooter to stretch and lose alignment, often taking more recoil directly to the shoulder joint.
• Optimized LOP = better posture + better weight distribution = less felt recoil.

2. Drop at Comb and Drop at Heel

🟠 Moderate impact — mostly affects comfort and perception of recoil.

• Controls the vertical position of the shooter’s face in relation to the barrel.
• Poor comb height causes “cheek slap” — increasing perceived recoil.
• A comb that fits your cheek well distributes recoil forces more evenly, reducing discomfort.

3. Cast (on or off)

🟠 Moderate — more about alignment and control than pure recoil.

• Horizontal offset of the stock.
• Helps align the shooter’s eye with the sight plane.
• Misalignment can cause awkward body positioning and poor recoil absorption.

This can be difficult to measure accurately without the correct tools and equipment.

4. Recoil Pad & Butt Design

🔴 While not a “dimension”, the pad material, shape, and pitch angle drastically affect recoil absorption.

Summary:

Recommendation:

For recoil-sensitive shooters, start with a properly fitted length of pull and combine it with a quality recoil pad and possibly an adjustable comb for best overall results.