Your definitely going to lose velocity with the barrel decrease and there has been some mixed info that i have read about cans actually adding or removing velocity. It seems to be kind of a YMMV type thing. I think you will probably pick up a bit of velocity but not all of it back.
debating likewise.... ive seen a good bit of issues with CA but it seems that they are more than willing to take care of things.... so that's actually not that bad... not to add more options but the xbolt hells canyon models look nice too (brothers shoots incredible in 6.5CM).
Tagging as well. I've heard about hair spray being used as a coating in the past for some reason.... Havent been shooting any of mine due to the cost of replacement.
MAy be of interest:
https://cameralandny.com/shop/kowa-genesis-44-8-5x44mm-prominar-xd-gn44-8-binoculars-open-box/6d234b90-cea0-0138-9ca5-00163e90e196?variation=2775282...