Exactly what ADVWannabee said, wear ear plugs if you go with a muzzle brake. I have a Marlin 1895G Guide Gun in 45-70 that is Mag-N-Ported, first time I shot it I thought I blew my right ear drum, my right ear rang for over a week. Needless to say I dont shoot it anymore, I bought a new 1895GS that is unported, it does kick harder but much more pleasurable to shoot, I can tolerate recoil better than muzzle blast.