I've never been bothered by my own muzzle blast. I have been momentarily blinded by muzzle flash, while hunting in low light and taking a shot, as I sighted through a riflescope.

The 'orange ball' I saw was due to propellant choice. The barrel was 22 inches long. The cartridge was 7X57mm and the propellant 3100.

The experience was like walking out of a dark movie theater into blinding sun light.

(Not complaining, just a factor to take into account).