[Jeff Higgins]

The only problem with ported barrels is that they completely rule out cast bullets. The ports shave lead, eventually get soldered shut, and destroy accuracy. You damn near have to re-magnaport to get the lead out.

Cast lead bullets are far in a way the most effective projectiles for big bore revolver shooting. They can be driven to higher velocities than the same weight jacketed bullet and will out-penetrate the very best jacketed bullets by at least double in game. Penetration is the name of the game with big bore revolvers - it's what makes them such impressive killers for their relative lack of power. Even the most rompin' stompin' thunderin' .44 mag or .45 Colt loads have half the power of the lowly thutty thutty carbine.

Due to this relative lack of power, the revolver shooter has to make some choices. You get penetration or expansion, but not both. These are not rifles, in spite of the impressive muzzle flash, noise, and recoil. Given the choice, I will take reliable penetration every time. You get that reliable penetration with hard cast semi wadcutters, which cannot be fired through ported barrels.