Flashman,
Just a few thoughts.
I use barrels from 7 inches to just under 18 inches, and most of them have brakes.
From the small 223 Rem to a 338 Lapua Improved these guys are loud.
I always use hearing protection, even when hunting.
Most of my range time has me wearing double.
I would even urge all of you to use hearing protection at all times regardless of your barrel lengths (braked or not).
What is obtrusive to one shooter, may be fine for the other as far as blast goes.

Ernie "The Un-Tactical"

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