With all due respect - I call "Bravo Sierra" on the sound issue.
Microsoft PowerPoint - Firearm Sound Briefing.ppt (larsondavis.com)
How Loud are the Weapons?
P228 9mm 159-162 dB
P229 .40 S&W 161-162 dB
P229 .357 SIG 162-163 dB
(All measured 1 meter to the left of the muzzle)Maximum Safe Sound Level
357 Sig, to me, has a very distinctive sound.
Like an AK vs an AR.
But to me, it doesn't sound any louder than 40 S&W.
Also, IMHO, reports of excessive blast and concussion are highly exaggerated.
Especially with low flash fast burn defensive ammunition.
Now the cost issue is definitely for real :(
Particularly with range ammo.
That's the main reason I can't, in good conscience, recommend the caliber to others.
Also, availability of ammo and very few firearms options.
Most manufactures (Hk and others) have stopped producing guns in that caliber.
It's truly a niche round these days ...