I have one. Blue/black synthetic. Yes it kicks, but not like a 500 S&W Handi rifle. Unlike a 35 Whelen Handi rifle, it goes bang every time you pull the trigger. Doesn't feel as comfortable in the hands as the Handi rifle, but it shoot at least as well. Recoil is brisk, but no worse than the handi. The scope base is the stuff, but just a bit too high. It will clear a 50 mm objective scope, the 40 sits a bit high. The trigger on mine is a bit heavy, but no creep and not much over travel. For $285 out the door, I am quite pleased. The 1 in 10 twist is better for the heavyweight cast boolits I prefer (Lyman 358009, 270 gr). Haven't got to try it on a deer yet, but I want to see if I can find a hog on the SC lease before turkey season kicks in.