I read about handgun recoil all the time like it's a big deal. I do not do a lot of handgun shooting but have shot .22 rimfires, a .380's, a .38 S&W, 9MMs, a .357, a .44 Mag, and .454 Cassull and a .460 S&W. Since recoil is felt in the hands with pistols it did not seem like a big deal like when shooting a hard recoiling rifle or shotgun where the recoil is absorbed in the shoulder and face, and ones head gets jerked around. However, even with double ear protection the center fire pistols are a big, big deal as far as noise in my ears. In a self defense situation one would not have a chance to wear ear protection so for me that might mean significantly increased whistling in my ears for the rest of my life. I have a .380 for concealed carry but would also like a larger handgun for taking with in my car. What would make the least noise but still have a lot of stopping power? Would a .44 Special or .45 Colt with low pressure loads produce less muzzle blast than a 9MM but have equal or better stopping power?

Maybe maybe not barrel lenght, the powder,bullet used and have a effect on the loudness ,muzzle blast ect of any given load.

I carry a ported 41 mag as my critter protection gun for back backing and other woods trips.

It is very very very loud I don't like shooting it even with double ear protection with fullhouse selfdefense loads.

I have decide that if it comes down to me being chomped on or one of the hounds being killed I use it.

I have used it to finshed off several bears that were a danger.

With neck and head shots.

I don't even remember the noise.

But then wading into a pack of hounds with a 200 to 500 lb bear fighting with them. Placeing the muzzle inchs from the bears head or neck is rather exciting.

Noise what noise I don't worry about if using it in a true defensive situation.

Yes it would be nice to be able to use some type of hear protection and I try to use it when ever possible.

But there are times one does what he has to do.