300 WSM Short Barrel Length Poll

[JPatzig]

So I went on my first elk hunt last year with a 300 PRC, 24" barrel + a 3" muzzle brake for an effective total 27" length. 2 things I learned: 27" is too long, and I want to hunt suppressed from here on out. I am now converting this 300 PRC to 300 WSM and intend to use a TBAC Dominus CB (6.25" long). This suppressor is rated for a 300 WSM barrel length all the way down to 16". Trying to decide on a length between 16-20". Bullet choice will be the 181 Hammer Hunter. Absolute max range for this gun will be 500 yards. I'm fully aware running something as short as 16" will kill my velocity, but I should still be plenty fast/effective at 500 yards with the 181 Hammer Hunter. There's plenty of pro's and con's to shorter vs. longer, but one of my biggest concerns with going shorter (closer to 16"), is higher muzzle blast and effectively being louder with more recoil (even with the suppressor). Anyway, appreciate any votes or feedback.

 

[bsnyder]

20 is short as I would go personally.