I have used the CCI shotshells for the last 17 years and they have been very effective. I have used 9mm, .38 Special, .45 ACP, and .45 Colt. Currently, I only use the .38 Special and .45 Colt. IMO, the 9mm doesn't carry enough shot, and I don't shoot .45 ACP anymore. The .45 Colt is very effective on snakes and small vermin and is easy to shoot in either a Model 25 or a Colt SAA. Around my ranch, I generally load 2 rounds of shotshells backed by 3 or 4 LHP rounds (depending on the gun). I can't give an opinion on a ported barrel as I've never had one on a pistol.