According to Remingtons Ballistics Info you would lose 10fps for every inch under 24 for a round in the 2000-2500fps range so according to them you wound lose 75 fps which is insignificent really. However the muzzle blast would be pretty good. I have an 03 Spfld that has had the stock and barrel cut to 16", the bolt handle modified and the neatest Winchester style safety with G&H side mount and Lyman Alaskan scope. Nice custom front sight blade. Built by Les Womack for a gunwriter for trail use in Alaska. Both my 375 and 416 Rigby Brno's have barrels cut to 21". Very handy in Zim in the jess and no drawback in the open. I never even hear the gun go off when I shoot. I really don't like guns with Bbls ove 22" but that is personal.