Replacing rubber butt pad with something else

[Retiredguns]

Forgive me if this has been covered, but I am wondering if there is a direct replacement for the rubber pad on my .357 BB steel. Nothing wrong with it, but it certainly isn't needed. I'd really like to have just a black, metal or composite butt pad. I'm sure I could get one, but would probably have to "size" it down. Any ideas?

Steve

[GunnyGene]

You could make one of wood if you have the tools. I'd suggest about a 1/2" or more thick.

[markiver54]

Just curious, what bothers you about the stock one? I have the same rifle.

[Retiredguns]

Just curious, what bothers you about the stock one? I have the same rifle.

It would be for looks as there is nothing wrong with it. It's just weird that they have it on pistol caliber rifles yet a metal plate on a .45-70 and other Henry Brassers. I used to have an old Marlin .30-30 that could have used the rubber pad!

[wolfman]

Have looked into the same thing, but found no ready made replacement options. There are grind-to-fit options of course, and it may be possible to grind down the factory pad. It's an overmolded arrangement, so might be limited in how much you can remove. Not aware of any thinner pads or plates that are a good fit to Henry's stock & screw pattern.

Nothing really wrong with the factory pad, actually like how the contour feels in the shoulder. It looks fine, & is well fit to the wood. For me, it's the added length of pull that's a bit problematic. About 1/2" longer than optimal, being ~5'-8" & barrel chested. Not unmanageable in a t-shirt or light sweatshirt, but really notice it with heavier clothing.

Lots of plastic & composite plaques at work, have thought about repurposing one of the 6x6x1/4" ones after we're finished with it. Cut slightly oversized on the bandsaw, then file & sand to fit. Drill & countersink the screw holes. Might need shorter screws. Might be possible to add a bit of contour on the outer side with a drum sander.

[leverjc]

You would have to fit it but Bob"s Gun Shop has several buttstock plates to choose from.

[Motocrash]

Not a fan either. In fact, I reg'd here for that very reason. We are used to guns with a shorter LOP and the pad, on top of being overkill for a 38/357, makes the stock too long and grippy. Will probably drop mine off at a local gunsmith to have it lopped off a bit and have a curved plastic one added.

[MuddyWaters62]

I was thinking, could you just get the Youth buttstock instead?

Muddy Waters68

[JEBar]

we had a gunsmith replace the recoil pad on our Henry 45-70 .... he didn't find a direct retrofit and did have to cut it down

[Retiredguns]

Thanks for the replies. I will find something and do some experimenting. As long as I have the original, I can always put it back on.