This means that despite marketing hype, quality shotgun-barrel porting commonly reduces the shotgun’s recoil somewhere between 8 and 15 percent. In practical terms, the more powerful the load, the more effective barrel porting can be. So, if you shoot a light load, don’t expect to feel a huge difference with porting.

What does porting do on a shotgun?

Porting near the muzzle end of the barrel allows a specific amount of the burning gases of the shot to be directed in a controlled manner to counteract the action of recoil. As the projectile passes the porting the redirected force exerted against the firearm canceling most of the lifting action.

Are ported barrels worth it?

Pros. Having the barrel ported has a wonderful application for those shooters seeking faster follow-up shots on target. The ports on the barrel are for reducing recoil by allowing the expanding gases to sort of thrust the end of the pistol downward. Great for competition shooters!