I have a Barrett M107A1 (the semi .50 version successor to the M82, the non-bulpup semi variant of M95). I’ve shot the 95, Armalite and a fair number of other bolt BMG round based 50’s. As long as you have the muzzle brake on it’s not bad. (If you take the muzzle break off, ... you’re going to remember that moment for a very long time).
The M95 recoil is not unpleasant IMHO and has a
VERY effective muzzle brake. As stated above it’s similar to a 12 ga.
The two other recoil mitigation mechanisms are:
1) the weight of the M95. With a scope and 5 round magazine, you’re between 25 and 30 lbs which absorbs / slows and spreads out the recoil impulse dramatically over time 100 milliseconds vs 10 milliseconds of a lightweight high power gun. (The Weatherby 7mm mag recoil is painfully unpleasant compared the Barrett)
2)
The cleverly integrated BIDS (BMG’s inherent sensory deprivation) system: Within 50 milliseconds of pulling the trigger, your sensory system shuts down for the next 50 mSeconds. Other than hearing a loud but muffled boom through YOUR DOUBLE EAR PROTECTION (plugs and muffs- DO NOT pull trigger without both) and feeling a solid push on your shoulder, it’s a certifiable rush / thrill.
I’ve fired 100+ rounds in a day with no pain or ill effects (except for a lighter wallet).
The Barrett and similar “sharkfin” style brakes are incredibly effective.
1 shot, 1 THRILL. Seriously. Enjoy.