Well Bob, as you predicted recoil is stout. I shot a Hornady "Precision Hunter" 220gr ELDX standing offhand and it definitely has some recoil. I still feel like the trade off is worth it in a rifle I will end up carrying a lot more than I end up shooting. I will use the muzzlebrake when I'm practicing, but not when I'm hunting and I don't think I will even notice the recoil when I'm shooting at an animal. I won't hunt with the muzzlebreak because I'm not willing to wear ear protection while hunting, and muzzlebreaks are just way to loud.