Why does a heavy rifle not kick as strongly as a light rifle using the same cartridges?

A heavy rifle does not kick as strongly as a light rifle because its greater mass helps absorb and dissipate the recoil energy generated when a round is fired. The increased weight reduces the acceleration experienced by the shooter, leading to a softer perceived recoil. Additionally, the heavier rifle's design often allows for better stabilization during firing, further mitigating the effects of recoil compared to a lighter rifle using the same cartridges.