Taurus Tracker 357 4 inch

[hunterwinco]

Hey all.  I have read a lot of posts regarding this pistol.  I have been looking at a 4 inch 357 as a firearm to carry while in the woods here in Maine.  I am looking for something relatively light since I don't wish to be having to pull up my belt all day .  My concern is with the porting!  Obviously, when I am at the range I have my ear protection on, but when I am hunting I don't (and no I'm not buying walkers game ears!).  Is this gun just TOO loud to fire occasionally without hear protection?  For example, If I draw it in the woods to take a crack at a coyote am I going to have a splitting headache for the next hour?  I REALLY wish I knew someone with one that I could try out.   I see that the Rossi 4 inch 357 is blued, basically the same weight and not ported...would that be a better route?  Any help would be appreciated!

[greenjeans]

I had the Tracker in .41 mag, ported. It was loud!!! Would not want to intentionally shoot it withour hearing protection. Wish I had it back.

[SlimPigguns]

I have not shot my Tracker without ear protection, but when I first used it I was asked by other shooters if I had upped my handloads, though I was using the same loads as I use in my 6 in Taurus, and it is ported as well. I am very happy with how it shoots so far. I did find the stock grips wrong for my hands and have fitted a Hogue. Pete