Disadvantages to porting.

[philbo]

I have one ported handgun, my Ruger Super Redhawk in 454 casull w/7.5" barrel. It was ported after one trip to the range without any regrets whatsoever. The increased ability to control the firearm is a significant advantage. That being said, I wouldn't bother porting a handgun for self defense only

 

[farscott]

For those people who mention porting and shooting from retention, I wonder how the barrel/cylinder gap is handled. The porting is not an issue for me because I cant the revolver a bit to the outside. I have, however, scorched myself with the barrel/cylinder gap.

I also find that I prefer heavier loads with the ported SP-101s. For the .357 Magnum, the 158-grain JHP is my choice with the 180-grain loads a close second. The 124-grain and 110-grain loads are not my cup of tea.

The one big negative of porting for me is the sound, especially in an enclosed area like a vehicle. The concussion from a hefty .357 Magnum in a small space is disconcerting to say the least. I usually practice outdoors, so that may explain why the porting does not bother me.

 

[788Ham]

I've got an 6" 629, a 6" Python and just bought an SP 101 3" in .357, no way would I want any of these ported. I knew when I bought all of these that there was going to muzzle flash, excessive noise and a concussion after the hammer fell...... I haven't been disappointed yet! Why would I want to increase all of the above virtues of these firearms by porting? Using any of these as a SD firearm inside the house is going to be a horrendous adventure to say the least, but the extra flash , not needed, thanks.

 

[Master Blaster]

Porting does reduce muzzle rise and makes for faster target re-aquisition in rapid fire competitions. It does help reduce course times for some folks who compete against the clock. It also helps in some shotgun games.

 

[340PD]

My 3" 586L Comp. I really don't notice flash or blast but it has much less felt recoil than my 4" 686 SSR. The same handload has about 1/4 less recoil allowing me to keep the gun on point much easier.

I also fired a S&W 460 with a compensated barrel starting with a 45 long colt, .454 Casull, then on to the .460 S&W . I was impressed with how easy that gun was on the hands. Granted the X Frame absorbed much of the energy it still was a pleasure to shoot. Now my .32 seecamp.......

 

[sugarmaker]

I've never found that handgun recoil was a problem given good design and grips. Noise, however, IS the one thing that bothers me so I don't own any ported guns.

 

[OldCavSoldier]

I only own one ported gun....my sporting clays competition O/U shotgun....ports are a PITA to clean but do well for muzzle flip and the second shot on a true pair....it has taught me that I will NEVER own a ported handgun......