It protects your hearing. I have lost quite a bit of mine. How about you?
I would particularily appreciate a silencer, as I would like to be able to use what hearing I have left to listen for game.
Not so much hearing loss as the “extra” non-stop ringing tinnitus. Hunting rifle shooting probably much less damaging than too many years of jet engines, power plants, hot rodding, hot hand loaded 44 mags and 60’s Rock and Roll.
Silencer is akin to mucho gaggets on a cell phone. Not essential, but cool and braggable.