YES, the sound of the action being racked MIGHT frighten bad guys. IMO the big bang following that sound, a nano second later will be more frightening. Is a chambered pump harmful to the gun? Probly not. To a curious kid, or fumble fingered 1/2 awake adult? NOT SO MUCH. (IMO) After a NOT COOL sleep walking situation involving a fully loaded & chambered 9mm, I'm a bit more careful.