I am posting in Big Bores for a couple of reasons. I have sent off payment and am soon to be the proud new owner of a Douglas barreled Siamese mauser in 45-70. The stock will be left long for me to fit for myself after finding a suitable pad. I may not keep this as 45-70. I have a mind to goto something bigger and would like the input of those of you that use recoil pads as to which is the best?
Should I have crossbolts installed?

Andy

You don't need crossbolts on a .45-70, it is not in the big bore recoil class..As to recoil pads, one is about as good as another..Some like Pachmyers and others swear by Limbsavors, but I can't tell any difference. All the 45-70s and 45-90s that I have shot had steel cresent buttplates and it didn't bother me.

Thanks Ray. Have you ever shot a 45-70 500gr FMJ @2000fps in a Ruger #1? Or a 350 round soft @ over 2200fps? I have and they kick more than any .375 H&H load, infact it was close to what I experienced shooting a buddies Lott. Believe me you will not want a steel buttplate. I have no plans on babying this rifle with Trapdoor-safe-loads. I plan on using my chronograph, micrometers, and a good dose of common sense--when the case splits it is time to back off.
Andy

Andy I agree with you! I shot 50 rounds though my 375 H&H with pretty much full bore loads, no problem. I shot 3 rounds through my friends 45-70, 405g at 1900 fps with no recoil pad, it hurt every time lol and I got a bruise. The recoil of the 45-70 wasn't bothersome shooting, just the narrow butt of the stock focused all the recoil in one spot on my shoulder.

Chuck

I guess the lack of a response says it all. A Ruger #1 Sporter, with its thin barrel, has no business being chambered in 45-70. Given a choice I would prefer the heavier barrel of the #1 Tropical for any 45 cal chambering. I cannot understand why Ruger, knowing that most 45-70ers are going to crank-up the heat, refuses to utilize the heavier barrel.