Cracked stocks are a function of recoil, and loose actions both recoil and pressure.
Yes, the load recommendation found on 12g L.C. Smith hang tags prior to 1920 was 3 dram 1 1/4 oz. shot (1165 fps); thereafter 3 dram with 1 1/8 oz. shot (1200 fps)
If not hand loading, we have very limited options for low pressure low recoil non-tox loads, and those loads are the lowest available.