my normal hunting rifle is a 30-06 and i regularly shoot slugs from my 12 gauge . this model 70 still kicks like a mule compared to them. my shoulder is still hurting. it was probably around 85 degrees so that may have added to the kick. i would hate to have to wear a shoulder pad so im gonna try one of those limb saver recoil pads cause i think what winchester uses for a recoil pad looks cheesey. as for the ammo i couldnt pass on it i got a couple boxs at 21$ each and i was told that the 338mag wasnt supposed to be picky with ammo just like the 30-06. i went with the 225 gr because i plan on using it for bear as well as deer and someday for moose. i also seen some kind of spring contraption that fits inside the stock i think outers makes it.