Is the brake really needed when hunting? They're loud and a 6.5 CM isn't a heavy kicker. I wouldn't consider muffs and would go with an in-ear solution. If not looking for amplification, look at SureFire EP4. Also, maybe consider banded ear plugs. Quick and light.
No, but I plan on using it for target shooting as well and I don't want to have to take it on and off, adjusting my POA/POI each time wasting ammo. Even without the brake I'm gonna need HP in the blind, so might as well use the brake. That and the reason I got it with the Hawg brake was because my shoulder is complete [bleep]. Honestly, I'll be lucky to get the opportunity to even take a shot at a deer given my usual luck. Not looking for amplification, just something that would be quick and effective, but the ability to be able to whisper to the person next to me or hear the crunch of leaves would be nice.
