Since I don't know which version FAL your friend has, I have to say there are many "stock, factory pads", ranging from the metal pads originally used by both the L1A1 (Inch) and G1 (metric), to the Imbel and SA (I think) which had rubber buttpads. There are US-made counterparts that also have the rubber pads. These rubber buttpads are mated pieces to the buttstock, and because of design details, it's not easy to adapt a Limbsaver to a FAL stock. Besides, IME, the rubber buttpad really reduces the recoil, as compared to the metal versions. But felt recoil is subjective.
It's also important to remember your application. Are you buying the rifle? Adapting a new buttpad is probably an owner-type decision. If you're just borrowing it, you can buy a Limbsaver slip-on, but watch out for your Length of Pull, aka LOP. Some FALs already have awkwardly long stocks, and adding another inch or inch and a half just negates the comfort and accuracy you thought a recoil pad would bring.
If you are buying the rifle, and the buttpad is the potential deal breaker, I suggest you first understand the rifle design (a good thing if you're the future owner) and check out what's available out there in terms of stocks and pads and LOP. You'll make a better informed decision.
Rubber buttpad, the right gas setting (that's another thread) and a good brake (I like Entreprise Zero Climb) should be all one needs.
Good luck and let us know what happens!