Just finally had to comment, I've been on for a while but usually choose not to comment on this type of discussion, ( have a tendancy to be a little sarcastic) I have shot a 30-338 with a 20" barrel since 1982, it is on it's second 20" barrel as I seem to like them that way. I can get over 3k with 180's in both barrels. Can anyone really tell me HOW much louder a 22" barrel is really going to be being 4 inches closer to ones ear? Can't imagine that it would be much. If we are afraid of the bang maybe we should play golf! And as to the velocity loss I never saw a deer or elk that could actually tell the difference in a few FPS. If you always want max speed you have to give up a little portability and balance. Cut you 7 to what ever you want, if you don't like it tubes are not really that expensive.
Good luck and I bet you like your new more portable rifle.
6MMWASP
I'm a great fan of handy/dandy and don't get too concerned about decibels until entering the 18" and shorter realm.
Though admittedly love a 14" 7-08 XP.....................(grin)
