I have a really bad shoulder. My left arm has gone down hill to the point that its half the size of my right arm. I have to shoot left handed because I lost my right eye. (one of those living on the edge things) Anyway the 30-06 which I use is the Remington 7600. With a scope on it the recoil does not bother me much. I do use an extra pad at the range to protect the shoulder but even with just a medium jacket on, the recoil is not pleasant but not severe. You should have no trouble if you shoot a 12 Ga.