Use of lead sleds

[Cowboy307]

I'm aware of the valid reasons for advising against the use of lead sleds when sighting in rifles (broken scopes, cracked rifle stocks, etc.). However, in the interests of not further damaging my aging and surgically repaired shoulder, I'm thinking of acquiring and using a lead sled to sight in a light weight and high-recoiling hunting rifle I've recently acquired (Kimber 8400 in 325 WSM on which I've mounted a Trijicon Credo 3-9x40). Over the years, I've discovered that I'm less recoil sensitive than a lot of guys and it takes a lot to make me flinch, but I don't want to be foolish by not protecting my shoulder when firing repeatedly from a bench. My thought is that I might acquire a (somewhat) light weight lead sled that is (minorly) movable through the rifle's recoil and/or place some cushioning material between the back of the buttstock and the cradle portion of the lead sled. In other words, I'd use a lead sled but try to let the rifle move a bit. Of course, the alternative is to have a padded shoulder via a thick coat, folded towel, etc. Any thoughts about these options? Putting aside the use of muzzle brakes and suppressors for the moment, have you dealt with this "recoil" issue when sighting in a high-powered yet light hunting rifle and, if so, how? Thanks in advance for any experiences and opinions you may be willing to share.
With appreciation,
Cowboy307

 

[JD338]

I use a Bullsbag, works great.

Bulls Bag X7 System

I called Bulls Bag Friday but they were closed, didn't leave a message. Saturday early afternoon I recieved a call from Marshall Hill, the President of Bulls Bag asking if there was something I needed or if he could answer any questions. I thought, WOW, here is a man that cares about the...

forum.nosler.com

JD338

 

[Blkram]

You could also try a PAST recoil pad. They have shoulder rigs to wear this, or there are some shooting shirts/jackets designed to put these in the garment to wear when shooting, whether at the range or in the field.
Replacing the factory recoil with a LimbSaver is also an option that can make a difference in felt recoil.
In the end, you are going to need to try a few options to find which will work best for you, as felt recoil is subjective to each individual.

 

[RL338]

+1 on the BullsBag. With the rifle sandwiched in it helps control recoil. I use one in my hunting stand.

 

[Slimfinn]

Maybe Fotis will weigh in, I know he has a rest that he uses, not sure if it midigates the recoil or not

 

[SJB358]

You could also try a PAST recoil pad. They have shoulder rigs to wear this, or there are some shooting shirts/jackets designed to put these in the garment to wear when shooting, whether at the range or in the field.
Replacing the factory recoil with a LimbSaver is also an option that can make a difference in felt recoil.
In the end, you are going to need to try a few options to find which will work best for you, as felt recoil is subjective to each individual.

That works excellent for me as well.