I have 2 BARs in 338WM (one with the BOSS system) and have shot/hunted with both. The rifle with the BOSS system is longer but has a little less recoil. The older BAR without a BOSS system is just the right length, shoots extremely well and kicks (at least to me) a little less than 12 gauge slugs. The BOSS rifle is definitely louder for both you as a shooter and any buddies hunting with you. My buddies don't like it. If I had to have just one fo the rifles, it would be the non-BOSS rifle.

Somebody suggested you shoot a few rounds through a buddy's 338 to see if you handle the recoil or not. I'd 2nd that suggestion. If you do decide to get a 338 and still want to cut down on recoil, I recommend trying a recoil reducing pad. You cut down on recoil without increasing noise/muzzle blast, etc. Hope this helps.