I did a little online research before cutting the barrel. What I gleaned is that springers reach max velocity around 10" of barrel. The extra length serves sight radius, and cocking leverage.
Now it makes sense to me that the Hatsan 125 QE only has 10.5" of rifled barrel, but gets great speed and accuracy.
I figured shortening the barrel would shorten barrel-time for sure, and that might help free the pellet before I muff the shot. A little extra velocity is just some icing on the cake.
Cocking is a little harder, but no big deal. After I break it, I generally use both hands anyway.
Probably a little louder, but not enough for my ringing ears (tinnitus) to really notice.
