I have found Ruger Model 77's to be some of the hardest kicking rifles on the planet; particularly those called "All Weather" with the black plastic stock. If you know someone who has a Remington, Weatherby,or Winchester Model 70 in this caliber; you might compare and see. I just got a SPS Remington and it is pretty tolerable in the 7 Rem Mag. The Simm's recoil pads are great. I would stay away from muzzle brakes - too hard on the ears. And, if all else fails, a smaller caliber, as has been stated already, is really not a bad option. A good hit with a .270 sure beats a gut shot with the 7 Mag.