LOL. It should almost be required. I took my 91/30 to the range Saturday. When I fired the first shot, I quickly realized I had left the recoil pad in another gun bag at home. Only fired 30 rounds, but my shoulder looks like a giant purple plum!
Ha! hold it tighter. Be very wary of the carbines (m44, m38, m91/59) They kick good! (I read that the russkie rifles were made to be fired with the peasants padded clothing, coats, etc. so no need for recoil pads)