I just read the thread on barrel length in a 7-08. That was all about handling. What about noise level at 20, 22, 24 or 26 ?
What is the compromise length for muzzle blast?
....................I'd say that the compromise length for muzzle blast depends on your own individual tolerance for both the muzzle blast and the noise levels. Regardless of barrel length you should be wearing good hearing protection anyway. As far as the degree of blast is concerned? For the most part that would depend on what time of the day you fire the rifle and how much light remains.
At the range my 'lil 300 WSM Ruger Frontier with its 16.5" barrel is a loud beast. Very good hearing protection a must for me. The blast? During the daylight hours that is un-noticeable imo and has no affect on my shooting accuracy. But that is me as I can handle this rifle extremely well whereas others may not.
Your individual tolerance is the key.
