Welcome to our forum beach06.  Can't help you much with slug guns since in Louisiana rifles are quite legal.  I do hunt with Pardner shotguns though and love them.  Yes, they do kick but it's a simple law of physics.  My 12 gauge weighs only 5 Lbs 6.5 oz and my 20 comes in at 5 Lbs 3/4 oz.  I just stay away from high brass loads, usually sticking with 1 oz even for the 12 gauge.  Wouldn't hurt to get a slip on "Sissy pad".  I did.  Don't worry about the recoil from your slug guns.   Simply use a bean or sand bag between your shoulder and the butt when sighting them.  When actually shooting deer they have no recoil at all.