I just shot my 300 win mag today for the first time. I can agree with stalkingbear in that proper shooting form will cut back on "felt" recoil. Just 2 or 3 years ago I had a hard time shooting more than about 5 rounds out of my Marlin 336W in 30-30 off a bench. I have since improved my shooting form and after 12 rounds today I feel great. No pain at all. By the way I am a slim person at 5' 10" 170#