True, it doesn't need a recoil pad, but adding one is the easiest way to accomplish your goal without a lot of wood finish work. The small limbsaver grind-to-fit is easy to work and looks great. A slip-on that fits good would also be worth considering.
Another consideration is to add a full size take-off stock from another Marlin bolt rifle, some of them are inletted the same for different models and may work. I have a gray laminate off a 917VS that may be a candidate if you find interest in this option and there are/have been several stocks for sale at RFC that may work for ya.