Testing the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad: What You Need to Know
Recoil. It’s the unwelcome guest at every shooting session, whether you’re blasting clays, hunting waterfowl, or sighting in a new rifle. The constant pounding can lead to flinching, bruising, and a general lack of enjoyment. That’s why I went searching for a solution, and landed on the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad, a simple yet potentially game-changing accessory designed to alleviate the sting.
I was developing a flinch from shooting high-volume sporting clays and needed a way to mitigate the shoulder fatigue. The goal was more comfortable sessions and better scores.
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad arrived in a simple plastic package. My initial impression was one of unassuming practicality; a dense neoprene pad, seemingly basic, but promising relief.
I considered a full replacement recoil pad for my shotgun, but those require gunsmithing and are specific to each firearm. I also looked at thicker shooting vests, but they can be bulky and expensive. The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad seemed like a universal, affordable, and easily implemented solution.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It felt dense and well-made for the price, but I was eager to see if this small pad could truly make a difference in felt recoil.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad at my local sporting clays range. I primarily used a 12-gauge shotgun firing a variety of target loads.
The weather was mild and dry, perfect for shooting, but not necessarily challenging for the pad itself. I inserted the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad into the internal pocket of my shooting vest, securing it with a safety pin as recommended. The fit wasn’t perfect, leaving a little room to shift, but manageable.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil felt significantly reduced, especially the sharp initial impact. The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad cushioned my shoulder, allowing me to focus on my shots without anticipating the pain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad, I’ve found it to be a reliable addition to my shooting gear. There are no signs of wear and tear after multiple range sessions.
The neoprene is holding up well, showing no signs of compression or degradation. Cleaning is simple, just wiping it down with a damp cloth.
Compared to shooting without the pad, or with a standard thin vest, the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad provides a significant improvement in comfort and recoil reduction. It’s not a magic bullet, but it makes a noticeable difference, allowing for longer and more enjoyable shooting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Bob Allen is a well-known name in shooting accessories, recognized for offering affordable and functional gear.
- Material: Constructed from high-density neoprene, a synthetic rubber known for its shock-absorbing properties and resistance to wear and tear. This translates to durable and effective recoil reduction.
- Dimensions: Measures 7.25 inches in width, 4 inches in length, and 0.25 inches in height. This compact size makes it easy to insert into a variety of shooting garments.
- Color: Available in black, a neutral color that blends seamlessly with most shooting attire.
- Attachment: Designed to be attached to the backside of shooting garments, either with a safety pin or by inserting it into a garment featuring an “Insert-A-Pad” pocket. This offers versatility in how it is used.
Performance & Functionality
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad excels at its primary function: reducing felt recoil. The high-density neoprene effectively absorbs the impact of each shot.
Its simplicity is both a strength and a potential weakness. It’s easy to use and requires no special installation, but the fit can be somewhat variable depending on the garment it’s used with.
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad largely met my expectations. It provides a noticeable reduction in recoil, especially for lighter loads, but heavier magnum loads may still require additional recoil mitigation.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional. The neoprene is dense but flexible, conforming to the shape of the shoulder.
There’s virtually no learning curve. Simply insert it into your garment and secure it.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad appears to be quite durable. The neoprene is resistant to tearing and compression.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad is a standalone product with limited customization options. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and universal compatibility.
It’s designed to be used with existing shooting garments and doesn’t require any specific accessories. While there are no direct modifications, users could experiment with layering it with other pads or materials for increased recoil reduction.
Pros and Cons of Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad
Pros
- Affordable: An incredibly budget-friendly solution for recoil mitigation.
- Effective Recoil Reduction: Noticeably reduces felt recoil, particularly with lighter loads.
- Easy to Use: Simple to insert and secure in most shooting garments.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-density neoprene for long-lasting performance.
- Universal Compatibility: Can be used with various shooting vests and jackets.
Cons
- May shift if not properly secured within the garment.
- The size might be too small for some larger vest pockets, requiring adjustments.
Who Should Buy Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad?
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad is perfect for recreational shooters, sporting clay enthusiasts, and hunters using shotguns with moderate recoil. It’s also a great option for individuals sensitive to recoil or those looking to extend their shooting sessions without discomfort.
This product might not be sufficient for those shooting high-powered rifles or heavy magnum shotgun loads, as they require more substantial recoil reduction.
A comfortable shooting vest with a dedicated “Insert-A-Pad” pocket is a must-have for optimal use. Safety pins are also necessary for garments without a pocket.
Conclusion on Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad
The Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad is a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for reducing felt recoil while shooting. While it may not completely eliminate recoil, it significantly cushions the impact and allows for more comfortable and enjoyable shooting sessions.
The price is definitely justified, considering the noticeable improvement in comfort and the durability of the product.
I would absolutely recommend the Bob Allen BA401 Insert a Pad to anyone looking for a simple and inexpensive way to mitigate recoil. Try it out; your shoulder will thank you!
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