Best Marlin 336 Recoil Pads of 2023

| Last Updated:
September 2, 2023

Are you looking for the best Marlin 336 recoil pads? If so, you’re in the right place. Finding a recoil pad is key if you’re looking to mitigate the recoil produced by your rifle.

It will definitely give you an advantage over those who don’t have one and still struggle to control their rifles. Less recoil will help with better control, comfortable shooting sessions, and even improved accuracy. 

To get you started, we’ve come up with a list of the best Marlin 336 recoil pads that are popular on the market.

Comparison Chart of the Best Marlin 336 Recoil Pads

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Reduces felt recoil by 70%.
  • Best overall Marlin 336 recoil pad.
  • Made from high-quality synthetic materials.
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  • Drop-in design. Easy to install.
  • It comes in two different colors.
  • Made from high-quality polymer.
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  • Slip-on easy installation.
  • Gel pad designed to reduce felt recoil.
  • Best Marlin 336 recoil pad for the money.
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  • Easy to slip on installation.
  • Made from genuine leather.
  • It provides maximum comfort.
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  • Slip-on installation.
  • Designed for straight stock rifles.
  • Made from high-quality polymer.
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What is a Recoil Pad and What Are They Used For

A recoil pad is not just a pad that helps you reduce and resist the amount of recoil for a better shot. They also do a good job at protecting your shoulder while the rifle is kicking back with every shot. Recoil is an integral part of all handheld firearms such as rifles, handguns, and shotguns.

Having a good recoil pad will it allows shooters to control their rifles while they are making follow-up shots. The pad will prevent them from messing them up. These pads have been gaining popularity over the years and for all the right reasons.

Why Quality Matters When it Comes to Recoil Pads

Quality should always be held to a high standard. Especially when it comes to an accessory like a recoil pad for your Marlin 336. Why is it important? Here are a few reasons why quality should always be the focus when looking for a recoil pad of your own:

Thicker Can Be Better

If you have a thick recoil pad, there’s a good chance that you might be able to absorb more shock and in turn, resist more recoil. At the same time, you’ll also be able to give yourself ample protection from shoulder injury due to recoil.

Some recoil pads may be thinner than others, but may also be susceptible to some possible damage. This rifle fires the powerful .30-30 cartridge so a thicker recoil pad for your Marlin 336 can be good. 

However, make sure the thickness does not affect the LOP (length of pull) too much.

Limbsaver - Air-tech Recoil Pad

The Material is Better Than Most

The material used in recoil pads is always essential, not just for its durability but also for its ability to reduce shock and provide comfort.

Most recoil pads are made from synthetic rubber, although there are some that are made from different materials. Rubber is mostly used for the sole purpose of absorbing as much shock as possible to ensure that the buttstock will still function and won't crack until the stress of multiple shots.

Some are made from other materials that may not absorb a lot of shock like rubber but the material is soft enough to provide you with a good deal of shoulder protection. Choose the right material that you think will be best for you. 

It Will Last You a Long Time

The higher the quality, the better the chance it will stay with you for a long period of time. This can be said about recoil pads. You want a pad that is high in quality and has the potential to last you years. Keep this in mind while looking for a recoil pad of your own. This might end up being the recoil pad you might end up with for the long-term.

Characteristics of Our Best Marlin 336 Recoil Pads

We didn’t choose these recoil pads at random. We chose these recoil pads based on some of the major characteristics that make it great. This list will give you a good idea of how you can distinguish a great recoil pad from one that might be considered crappy in quality and ineffective.

Use this as a guide to help you find the right one so you won’t be able to deal with a low-quality recoil pad in the future. Doing so will not only cause you some headaches, but it will also cost you financially. Here’s what you’ll need to look for in a recoil pad:

Thickness

We made sure that some of these recoil pads were thick enough to do their jobs. As mentioned, the thicker the pad, the better chance they have of lasting longer. They even have the ability to reduce more recoil, absorb more shock, and make it more comfortable for you every time you take a shot.

Installation

The installation process should be easier for you. So we made sure that the recoil pads were easy to install before adding them to the list. In fact, almost every single one of them will take minutes to install. Which means you don’t need a gunsmith to install it for you. All it takes is a few minutes of your time and some basic know-how and you’ll be in business.

Material

The material will definitely be a key player in recoil pads. For example, rubber is best known for being an excellent shock absorber. Since it’s not hard like a rock, it still gives you the comfort and protection you need when you’re firing off all kinds of shots.

Review of the Best Marlin 336 Recoil Pads

The following is the list of the best Marlin 336 recoil pads that are currently on the market as of today. As you’re looking through each one, be sure to consider taking note of any of the features and functions as they might be a match for what you consider to be your ideal recoil pad.

It may not be a perfect fit for what you might be looking for, but “close enough” is better than nothing at all. Now, let’s kick off this list by unveiling our selection for the “best overall” category for Marlin 336 recoil pads:

Best Marlin 336 Recoil Pad: 
Limbsaver - Air-tech Recoil Pad

Pros

  • Excellent Quality. Very Well-Made.
  • Easy to Install. Takes a Few Minutes.
  • Absorbs an Excellent Amount of Shock.
  • Muzzle Jump is Non-Existent After Installation.
  • Not as Bulky. Nor does it Add on Any Additional Weight.

Cons

  • May not Fit Some Marlin 336 Recoil Pads.
  • Some have Found the Installation to be a Bit of a Challenge.
  • Some have Complained About it Being a Little too Hard on the Shoulders.

What Recent Buyers Report

They were satisfied with the overall quality of the recoil pad. It’s made from polymer and is quite a tough little unit. Aside from it, they were quite happy to see no muzzle jump. Recoil reduction was said to be around 60 to 70 percent, which means it does what it advertises.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This polymer recoil pad is no ordinary recoil pad. To us, it’s a fancy looking pad that’s not too thin or thick. It’s at the right amount of thickness to not only handle a great deal of shock, but it also works to reduce as much recoil as possible to allow for better accurate shooting.

Who Will Use This Most

This recoil pad is basically a multi-purpose pad. So any shooter across all kinds of applications will benefit from it. Especially when an application where accuracy is always important. If you’re a hunter that is trying to fire that perfect kill shot or a competitive shooter that wants to get as close to the bullseye as possible, then this might be the recoil pad to go with.

What Could be Improved and Why

One of the improvements that we could suggest is that the pad could be a little softer. That way it won’t be as hard on the shoulders. Especially when you’re dealing with some heavy recoil. While it’s not too shabby in terms of thickness, some of the users would have appreciated it if it were a little thicker.

Bottom Line

If you’re simply looking for the best, then the Limbsaver could just be the recoil pad you’re looking for. It’s tough, does an excellent job getting rid of muzzle jump, and recoil is pretty much non-existent. This will definitely give you a better chance of nailing your shots with more accuracy and precision.

Runner-up Marlin 336 Recoil Pad:
 Pachmayr Decelerator Slip On Pad

Pros

  • Super Durable in Quality
  • Reduces Recoil Beyond Expectations
  • Very Comfortable to Use for Most Shooters
  • Muzzle Jump is Minimal, if Not Non-Existent
  • No Wiggle Room to Speak of. Stays Nice and Secure

Cons

  • The Fitting Might be Required for Some Rifles
  • Some had Issues with it Being Made in China and not the USA
  • Some have Complained About the Pad Increasing the Length of Pull on Some Rifles

What Recent Buyers Report

Most recent buyers had no trouble adding this recoil pad to their rifles. The recoil was significantly reduced and no muzzle jump was seen. The pad itself is durable, comfortable, and goes easy on the shoulders. In short, it’s a solid and reliable recoil pad.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This recoil pad is a little more built than most other recoil pads. Plus, it’s designed to fit most rifle buttstocks. The installation is so easy a complete newbie can do it in a matter of a few minutes. Simple is a lot better than complicated. Once added on, the changes in recoil are quite noticeable.

Who Will Use This Most

Yet again, this is the best fit for any kind of application. If you’re looking for something that will considerably reduce all kinds of recoil and muzzle jump, this recoil pad will definitely rise above and beyond the challenge. Hunters and target shooters will definitely place accuracy at a high priority over all else. If that’s you, you’ll probably want this recoil pad for your own use.

What Could be Improved and Why

This is a tough one for us. It looks perfect to us. But we can’t just leave it at that. If anything, it should have the ability to fit almost all rifles without having to worry about spending extra time figuring out how to fit it. But not all recoil pads are universal. Sometimes, that’s usually a good thing.

Bottom Line

Calling it how we see it right now, this recoil pad might have the potential to take over the top spot in the future. So expect the Pachmyr and Limbsaver to be part of the conversation on which recoil pad is better. But if you’re looking for something that’s a little beefier and will still do a superb job at reducing recoil and protecting your shoulders, this recoil pad might be right up your alley.

Best for the Money:
Recoil Eraser - Slip On Recoil Pad

marlin 336 recoil pad

Pros

  • Gets Rid of Muzzle Jump
  • Reduces Felt Recoil by 70%
  • Easy to Install. Takes Seconds
  • It Makes it a Lot More Comfortable for Most Shooters
  • Works for All Kinds of Shooters. Including Short-Statured Shooters

Cons

  • Tends to Move Around a Bit
  • Some Suspect that it May not be as Durable as Expected
  • Some Have had Difficulty Slipping it onto their Marlin 336 Stock

What Recent Buyers Report

This definitely fits a lot of buttstocks. On stocks that are high in height, it might be a challenge. But once it’s slipped on, it’s a lot more comfortable on the shoulders. Plus, it definitely knocks down a lot of recoil. Some have reported seeing the reduction at around 60 to 70 percent.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a pretty decent slip on recoil pad that has a soft gel that makes it easier on the shoulders. Recoil can be an abusive thing to your shoulders. So it’ll take a solid recoil pad like this to not only put that to a stop but will also give you better follow-up shots in the long run.

Who Will Use This Most

Big game hunters might benefit from this recoil pad the most. Even first time Marlin 336 users might want to consider using this if they are looking for some kind of starter version of a recoil pad. By this, we mean something that’s easy to install and won’t pose a challenge for them.

What Could be Improved and Why

We get it. Not all recoil pads are a one size fits all thing. So why not make an additional one that’s available for larger stocks? That’s probably the best idea that we can come up with in terms of what could be improved. The reason being is that this recoil pad may not fit all stocks other than standard size.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for an excellent recoil pad that is easy to slip on and gives you a lot of comfort, the Recoil Eraser might just be your cup of tea. The even better news is that it’s one of the most affordable recoil pads on the market. If you’re looking to get more than a great deal, this recoil pad is as close as you’re going to get to one.

4. Genuine Handmade Leather Recoil Pad

leather recoil pad for Marlin 336

Pros

  • Leather Isn’t Too Dry
  • Reduces Some Recoil
  • It Gives it an Old School Look
  • Very Comfortable for Older Shooters
  • Fits Like a Glove. Will Fit Most Standard Size Stocks

Cons

  • Might be a Little Too Big for Some Other Rifles
  • Some have Complained About the Build Quality is Poor
  • Some Say it May not Absorb as Much Recoil as Expected

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers have bought this more for the purpose of making their rifle look aesthetically better. Aside from it, they’ve had the added benefit of having some recoil reduced from their rifle. The felt recoil was said to be reduced to around 50%. Not bad compared to other recoil pads according to one user. But it’s a lot better than having no recoil reduction at all.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This might be the kind of recoil pad that John Wayne would nod his head in approval for. It stands out as something that doesn’t look like any ordinary recoil pad. If you want something that will give your rifle a classic look all while reducing a good deal of recoil, this could be the recoil pad to go with.

Who Will Use This Most

If anything, it would be a recoil pad that can be used for light or moderate applications. So this will appeal more to the weekend hunters and target shooters. It probably won’t be ideal for any high-pressure applications like shooting competitions or home defense.

What Could be Improved and Why

One of the things that might need improvement is in the pad itself. It should be a little thicker so it can reduce a little bit more felt recoil. Reducing it by nearly half is fine for most, but reducing it a bit more is even better.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a recoil pad that stands out as something different compared to most pads and reduces a decent amount of it in the process, you’ll want to consider giving this an even closer look. This is definitely a must-have for those who show a true appreciation for a classic look but want to get the most out of their Marlin 336.

5. Allen Company Recoil Eraser

Pros

  • Takes Seconds to Install
  • Reduces Felt Recoil by 70%
  • Very Comfortable for All Shooters
  • Great for Extended Range Shooting Sessions
  • Great for Shooters who don’t use Shooting Vests

Cons

  • Might be too Big for Some Rifles
  • Adds a Little Extra Length to the Length of Pull
  • Some Complained about it Being a Little Loose on the Fit

What Recent Buyers Report

The recoil pad is comfortable. And it fits most straight stocks without any issue. Aside from that, felt recoil and muzzle jump was either minimal or nothing. As a result, shot groupings were a little tighter with targets situated at 100 to 200 yards out. The padding itself was very comfortable for most shooters of any size.

Why it Stands Out to Us

To us, polymer is a long-trusted material that is used for just about any gun accessory that we can think of. It’s tough as nails and will be very difficult to damage. It’s what gives it the potential to last a lot longer than any other recoil pad on the market.

Who Will Use This Most

This will be as close to a universal recoil pad as you’re going to get. So it will definitely serve any shooter well no matter what the application. But if you’re a hunter or a target shooter (casual or competitive), you might be able to consider this as your go-to option if you’re rifle is more of a straight stock than any other design.

What Could be Improved and Why

Once again, this is where things get a little tough. Overall, we like it. But we’re not going to leave it at that. If anything, it should be a little shorter in length so it won’t make the length of pull impossible to handle for most shooters.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a recoil pad that will fit your rifle with ease, you’re definitely going to want to give the Allen Recoil Eraser a better look. It’s a slip-on pad that takes seconds. Once you slip it on, you’ll begin to see immediate reductions in recoil and muzzle jump. It’s the way a recoil pad ought to be. And it might be a fail-safe option if all the other recoil pads haven’t impressed you up to this point.

How to Install a Recoil Pad on a Marlin 336?

If you need to know how to install a recoil pad, you’re in luck. We have taken the liberty of adding on some instructions so you’ll know what to do in the event when you need to install a new recoil pad on your rifle.However, if you don't know a thing or two about gunsmithing or woodworking, please don't try this. 

Here’s what you need to do:

  1. First things first, check to see if you’re all clear. Check the mag well and the chamber for any rounds. Once you’re clear, go to the next step.
  2. Be sure to check your measurements to ensure that they fit your length of pull.
  3. Shorten the buttstock if need be with the right kind of tools (band-saw and sander).
  4. If you shortened your stock, mark where the holes will be to ensure a perfect fit for your recoil pad.
  5. Punch the markings and drill the holes.
  6. Screw in the holes carefully.
  7. Puncture the holes through the recoil pad. Then install it.
  8. Check to see if it’s fit and secure. If secure, you’re done.

Conclusion

A Marlin 336 recoil pad will live up to its duty in reducing recoil and giving you more comfort for your shoulders every time you fire your rifle. Never again will you want to deal with it hitting your shoulders hard enough to make it painful. Say goodbye to it all and get a pad that will fit your rifle perfectly. Aside from reducing the recoil, your shots will improve even greater. 

Michael Lutes

Michael Lutes is the managing editor and owner at Gun Mann. He is a veteran, gun enthusiast, 3 gun competitor, and 2a advocate. Mike has a passion for innovation and education across the industry to create great content, training, and insights from the best and brightest.

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