The Mossberg is an awesome shotgun. As far as recoil goes, it depends. A 2 3/4'' isn't too bad. However, the difference between a 2 3/4 and a 3'' is night and day. Now a 3 1/2'' will definitely give you a rude awakening. I don't know anything about recoil pads, since I've never bothered with them. Make sure you have the right choke for your gun, along with the correct brand of shells.