It's unlikely that the ss barrel will spook an animal. Like Kevin stated the reflection from your scopes lenses is more likely to do that. If your going to spend the extra money for the ss don't go hiding it with some camo tape. I always felt those tapes looked tacky anyway. Check out Savages Predator series, they come with a camo finish and the ones that I've seen look pretty sharp. Would I buy one probably not because I already have three varmint/target rigs.