20 Inch 7MM PRC Unsuppressed?

[WilliamWS]

I'm looking at picking up a new rifle in 7 prc and like the handy-ness of a 20" barrel.
Unfortunately, a suppressor isn't really an option for me as I Iive in NY, where they are not legal unless you're in law enforcement.
Is anyone shooting a short-barreled 7mm PRC unsuppressed?
I'm not worried about speed as even the slower-than-advertised velocities that I've seen some folks report from their 20" 7 PRCs should be more than adequate for my needs (whitetail, axis, hogs out to ~400 yds at 0-2000ft and elk out to ~600 yds at 6-11,000ft).
My only real concern is the noise level and muzzle blast from this cartridge/barrel combo if shooting unsuppressed.
I'm curious to hear experiences from anyone with this setup.

Thanks,
William

 

[MT_Wyatt]

Haven’t shot my 20” 7 PRC without a can yet. But will report back when I do. Can’t imagine it’s all that great, but I sure like shorter handier rifles.

 

[JPeters218]

I shot two antelope last year with a 20” unsuppressed 300wsm last year (3 shots). Would not recommend. Thats the only time my ears have ever rung from shooting

 

[Axlrod]

Every single gun shot causes irreversible damage to your hearing. Absolutely no reason to shoot ANY gun without ear protection ever, other than self protection. I have not been without ear pro. for 30 years, but before that... well my ears RING all the time now and i wish someone would have slapped some sense into me.

 

[Sevens]

Shot my 20” 7PRC without a suppressor prior to my suppressor arriving. It’s not very enjoyable.

Maybe get a linear comp to help push blast further from your ear?

 

[WilliamWS]

Thanks-that's what I was concerned about.
I do ALWAYS wear hearing protection, even when hunting, but even with protection I've heard some guns that don't seem particularly fun to shoot and that I'd be worried about possibly doing a little damage even with plugs in. Sounds like this might fall into that category. Think I'll likely look to go a little longer...

 

[GAHunterJim]

You'd be better off with a 7mm-08

 

[Unckebob]

I have a 20" 280AI that I sometimes shoot unsuppressed (never with a muzzle break) when taking velocities on my magnetospeed. It is pretty stout in terms of recoil, but I manage OK.

I lost about 100-150fps when I cut it from 24" to 20."

 

[HandgunHTR]

You'd be better off with a 7mm-08

Yep. With your stated use, there is no reason to go any bigger than that. The 7-08, 6.5 Creed, 6 Creed, .223, even the 308 all perform well in 20” barrels and will kill deer and elk out to 600 yards without a problem, using factory or hand loaded ammo.