I have KDF muzzle brakes on my .300 Weatherby and on my .375 RUM. I also put mercury or mechanical recoil reducers in their stocks.
These tamed the .375 RUM so that it is not unpleasant to shoot, and the felt recoil of the .300 Wby is less than my .270 Win.
Ear protection is highly recommended when shooting a braked rifle, but it should be worn when shooting any rifle.