Believe it
mcl, believe it. The combination of a good muzzle brake and lighter action weights (BCG and Buffer) can make nearly 50% reduction in recoil.
I have had a bad shoulder since 1989, Dr's wanted to operate on it. Everyone I knew who had the shoulder surgery said don't let them. To get to sleep at night I take 2 Naproxen so the shoulder pain won't wake me up. I still wake up sometimes and can't lift my right arm because of the pain..
Got my first AR in 2012, a Stag 5H in 6.8. All 556/223 were sold out. I did all the recommended stuff. A heavier carrier, heavier buffer and a Mako recoil reduction stock with a Limbsaver pad added. Maybe 10% recoil reduction total, but enough that I could shoot any 6.8 ammo 40-50 rounds per range trip.
Then I discovered adjustable gas blocks, and lighter BCG and Buffers go right along. Now I can shoot 308s all day, as long as I have a good muzzle break and light weight action components. I had the first AR308 titanium carrier, the 308 went from 22-24 ounces action weight down to led than 14 ounces.
I can shoot my 5 pound AR308 all day, as in 40-60 rounds with no ill affect. I tried shooting with out a 2 chamber muzzle brake and my shoulder hurt after 30 rounds, not bad but not great. I shot one day with the adjustable carrier key starting at nearly wide open. Wham Bam, now that HURT.
Quickly adjusted gas block and recoil of the 308 is just a little bit more than a 6.8. That is a 50% actual reduction in recoil!
Reduced recoil and the lighter action weights do three things. Longer component life. Much less recoil, and the kicker, GREATER ACCURACY.