I like the flip-flop idea except for gluing it on - I'd think it'd get pretty grimy after awhile.
I thought about handlebar tape also but the vet wrap sticks to itself and is still easy to clean or replace so I went with that. I like the way it forms an almost fused surface after awhile.
I tried some vinyl tubing as well but it just didn't have quite enough padding for me.
One thing that's clear is there is no shortage of clever ideas that people come up with to address the same problem. That's a big part of why I like forums like this one.
I'm about to order a butt pad from Apex and will throw in an original muzzle nut to try out as well. I think a little extra length would definitely help.
In honor of a new case of ammo and the last warm day, I took it out today at a place where I could try it at 100 meters and I continue to be impressed with the accuracy of the thing, as well as how handy it is while traipsing up and down hill and dale. I found a good spot to lie prone about 5o yards from my target and because of the angle I was shooting, about half the ejected casings ended up landing on my back, which was a new one for me.