I got one last year in 243, put a 3-9 simmons scope on it,Shoots 100 grain winchester sp,less than 1" at 100 yards,I like it for a Varmint rifle, also took it to ky, to deer hunt,Didn't get to try it out on any deer.I"ll shot a few coyote's and ground hogs with it, It small size makes it handy when you are coyote calling in the hills where I live,
Yes a shorter barrel is louder than a longer barrel, But when you are target shooting you should wear ear plugs to protect your hearing.
Enjoy your new rifle when you get it ,The 260 is a good caliber.