Katcher, I guess its stock desing because I have without a brake but I'm still using that thing I refer to as a plastic club but they call a stock. I never thought the recoil was too bad. Its amazing how differently each of percieve recoil. That's why I always cringe when people ask if it recoils. My perception of recoil is very different from others, as yours, and dans, etc. I've seen DanB shoot my Rigby (that is very substantial) and shoot it very well shot after shot. I can only do a dozen or so and I have to take a break before I shoot something else for accuracy. You have a Nice rig though! maybe I'll brake mine now. I love the Holland brake!