Re: T/C Pro Hunter
I have 3 Encore frames and several barrels. I really like the system for a lot of my hunting needs. they handle very well, and are short for fast handling in confined spaces. I have not had any problems attaining hunting accuracy with any of mine.
I would not consider them the best choice for long range work. But for normal hunting they are tough to beat. And I really like single shots.
However I do not like the Pro hunter models. And here is how I bought mine.
First of all they will need a trigger job if you want the best performance from them. I have had trigger jobs done by Bellm and Stratton. They both do good work. The way to start is to buy an action only and have a trigger job done on it. I actually bought my action from Stratton. That saved me on freight charges.
Then you need to decide on the cartridge you want. I have MGM barrels. They are first rate barrels and you can get exactly what you want. Barrel length, barrel contour, brake or not, and they will cut the chamber exactly the way you want it for no extra charge, and get you the twist rate you want. So you could say it is a custom barrel to start out with. My go to deer rifle is a SS 20"-ported 30-06 barrel for woods hunting. And it is short and fast for woods handling.
After choosing your barrel you then get to choose the exact stock you want. I prefer the TH design stock for my encores.
So if you do not go crazy on stocks you can put together a semi-custom rifle(that fits you) for a reasonable price(not much more than a straight factory Pro Hunter).
Below is a picture of one of mine. It is a 6.5X284 with a match cut chamber and a 28" ported HB. And it shoots very well. Certainly not as well as a $2,000-$3,000 custom rifle. But 1/2" groups are obtainable with a little work. And that ain't bad for a HUNTING RIFLE. Tom.