D- not as much as would think. A 7x57 is not operating at that high of a pressure and as such a 2" reduction is not anything like cutting off a 7 mag 24 to 22". I have 3 7x57's (19", 22" and 24") and the difference in noise/recoil/velocity is really not noticeable when using the same loads in each. I really like my FN model 93 w/19" bbl. which w/cut down Mil stock w/steel weaver 2.5 X scope weighs just over 6.4# unloaded w/out ammo. I like it much better than any 94 Win. as it shoots better, handle's better and is much more powerful and longer ranging. I shoot 49 gr. of I- 4831 in all of them (FN 93, FN 98 and a HVA sporter) w/139 Hornady's or 140 gr Partitions. Just make sure that the rifle, w/sights and ammo, will balance as you want it after cutting the bbl. back. You don't want it to be butt heavy when you are done, a little muzzle heavy is not at all bad though . My son's Rem Model 7 youth 243 had a very slim 18.5" bbl. it shot good but was balanced way to the rear, not at all conducive to OH shooting. I put a 24" factory take off 260 Rem. bbl on it and it was way to muzzle heavy but when I cut it back to 22" it is just right. By the way all of the powder (unless it is too slow to be suitable for the bore size and pressures achieved) burns w/in the barrel. Don't worry about the noise or velocity there will be enough of both but not enough to cause recoil or flinch problems, Good huntin-Muddy
