In terms of pads I find the Sims/R3 does the best job at taming the recoildue to the rubber compound used( word: Cushy).The Pachmayr Decelis more durable and doesn't hang up as much on fleece type materials when shouldering (because of the material used. Both are great products and reduce felt recoil noticably.

BTW you should be able to find a pre-fit Sims pad that will for your BDL, just go to: http://www.limbsaver.com/Products/Firearms/Cross_reference.aspx. Find and print off the templates for the BDL Wood Stock version then compare them to your rifle (make sure to uncheck "fit to page" prior to printing so the template remains actual size!).

I reload and have never tried downloading the 7mm rem mag..sorry can't help with that part.

The mind is very powerful and can make things tougher then they need to be. You needto get over the fearof shooting this rifle. Add a recoil pad and give the managed recoil ammo a go to start things off. After that who knows :< )!

Good Luck