Thanks Ridge Runner! Yes it is recoil issues. The rifle is a Tikka T3 Lite Stainless which is only 6.5 LBS. I plan on putting a scope on it which is near 2 LBS. I will be loading the standard 180 grain load for elk but a lot of my hunting is deer hunting with shots 400 Max (and usually under 200). I am planning on getting a very good scope and would like to use it for both but don't want to beat up my shoulder If it isn't necessary.
I will try the decellerator pad though, thanks again!