[Gunsnrovers]

I have a nice older (mid-1970's) Ithaca DSPS that is the house long gun. It's great, as my wife is left handed. The down side is that, for her, the lighter weight translates into a bit of recoil.

I've been tempted to have the forcing cone lengthened. The gun shots POA and groups pretty well with Federal Tactical out to the 15 yards I have patterned. I love this shotgun and we both shoulder it well, but she's leary of it at times.

Just wanted some feedback on that and/or other options. A new shotgun isn't one of them. :D

[Fred Fuller]

Reduced recoil buckshot loads for HD are a good idea, stay with them. Practice with very light loads of birdshot for the most part.

Is she using GOOD ear protection? If she's using muffs, does the stock contact them either in mounting or in recoil?

Are you SURE the stock is not too long for her? Often a too-long stock magnifies felt recoil. It is easier to use a stock that is a bit too short than one that is too long... .

Is her 'form' good in mounting the gun? Is she developing a proper shoulder pocket and getting the butt properly positioned? Remember, the female anatomy is different... .

A good recoil pad like a LimbSaver is definitely indicated, I think. Tell whoever fits it that the gun is intended for a female to use, and the pad should be configured with a rounded toe.

That's about all I can think of- hth,

lpl/nc

[Dave McCracken]

Lee spake Gospel. All a forcing cone job will do for kick is lower the pressure spike. Good fit, good pad, good form, and light loads are much more effective at taking the recoil mule down to a pony.

[Gunsnrovers]

It very well may be the ears. I've been looking for a better set for long gun shooting. The ones I have now are a bit bulky.

The stock Ithaca pad is pretty spongy and does seem to absorb recoil (though for me I am comparing it to the hard plate on my Stevens 620 and Winchester 97). It's not too long either.

I'll get some better ears and work on making sure she has good form.


Thanks,

Jeff