Thread: Protection for threaded barrel.

Recently got barrel threaded and a new MAE supressor fitted. My question Is how important is a thread protector cap when not using the supressor such as in more dense bush hunting or shooting at Woodhill forest. Is a thread protector cosmetic or is the thread really at risk of damage? Can you buy thread protectors off the shelf or do they need to be custom made, I'd need one for a stainless barrel? My other question would be is it safe to use tape over the end of the barrel, I notice a lot of hunters still do it. In 20 years hunting I have never had a blocked barrel despite some good falls.