I just penned a very short article on muzzle brakes and believe that they are necessary on very large bore rifles such as .338 Lapua Magnum and the 50 Caliber’s but having said that, the best recoil tamer is a “state-of-the-art” recoil pad such as those tested and proven to significantly reduce recoil. I have tested Limbsaver™ SVL® and Packmayr Decelerator® slip-on type or precision-fit replacement pads. I have not only tested them, I use them every time I go afield or to the range. These pads can and do reduce felt recoil up to 70%. Yes that means that you can shoot a 30-06 and have it feel like recoil from a .243 Winchester. An investment here is for a lifetime of easy shooting! So go get one!
Below a slip-on version and I own one and love it!
http://www.limbsaver.com/product/airtech-slip-on-recoil/
New from Limbsaver is the Airtech shown here as a slip-on with up to 70% recoil reduction. I have tested other Limbsaver pads and will ask to test this one. I am already a believer in the Limbsaver products for rifle and for Bow and Arrow so Check them out.