Varmint rifle....Encore out-of-the-box accuracy good enough?

[DakotaElkSlayer]

  Looking at getting into varmint hunting and was wondering if you think the accuracy(without messing with it) is good enough with the Encore?  Have been doing alot of research on the various forums on the net, and I see many people say that the accuracy just isn't there.  Since you guys own 'em, I would like to hear your experience.  Also, how many shots does it usually take for the barrel to break in and start to tighten the groups?

Thanks,

Jim

[Grumulkin]

No, the accuracy just ain't there.

I have more Encore barrels than my wife can keep track of.  In my experience, all scoped Encore rifle barrels I've worked with except for a 375 H&H Magnum barrel have gotten less than or equal to 1 inch 100 yard 3 shot groups.  I got the 375 H&H Magnum to do about 1.5 inch groups.  In all varmint type cartridges, group sizes have been in the 0.5 to 0.75 inch range and maybe a bit less in some.  In scoped Encore handguns, I expect groups of 1.5 inches or less at 100 yards.

I do reload.  I probably wouldn't do as well with factory ammo.

As for barrel break-in, that's a subject of controversy.  I believe the major advantage is easier barrel cleaning after the rough spots in the barrel have been smoothed out.  I don't think break-in contributes significantly to accuracy but opinions may differ.

[JustaShooter]

Add me to the list of folks who think the Encore's accuracy is good enough.  I don't have a picture of it, but my .243 Pro Hunter barrel has put 5 into .41" at 100 yards (best group) and consistently shoots sub-moa with reloads.  Factory ammo tends to be in the 1 - 1.5" range for 5 shot groups.

As to break in, I put about 100 rounds through mine, but I'm with Grumulkin on this - I break in barrels more to help with cleaning, I haven't seen it do much for group size.

Just a Shooter

[Ahab]

I have one in .204 Ruger. Heavy barrel. Shoots .5" groups with hand loads and I've only put less than 60 rounds through it. Should do better as time goes on.

[hogrdr]

In my opinion Encores are great guns! Got into it by accident after buying muzzle loader now I have 300 win. mag, 270 win., 22-250 the 22-250 is a varmint exterminator. It Shoots 1/2" groups without trying and I've done nothing but shoot reloads that were for my old bolt. I'll bet it will do better if I work load up. I have some ready just need spring to get here. My 270 is a sniper rifle picture says it all! They are Pro Hunter 28" barrels except 22-250 is 26"

I've read some who claim they can't hit a barn and hate Encores. My experience has been positive on all accounts. I do nothing special like shimming forearms and such. I just put barrel on and shoot they are as good as any guns I've owned.

Hog

[Ladobe]

An Encore (or Contender) is easily good enough right out of the box for most varmint hunting.   But that doesn't mean a shooter will be with it.   IOW, there is a learning curve to shoot these frames accurately.   That fact probably accounts for some of the false opinions that the accuracy isn't there even though it is.   When the targets get small and the range long, it's all about technique with the TC's just like it is with any firearm type.   

I've used TC's for over 4 decades for predator and varmint hunting, most of it with pistol length barrels, and that includes for small targets at long ranges.

[Idaho_Elk_Huntr]

300 yards! It will shoot this way as long as yoou dont get her to hot

[trophyhunter]

if you get a encore you wont be disappointed ive had mine for 5 years now ive not had as many barrels as some but the ones i do have all shoot well plus you can just get a new barrel and go from varment to your choice any other north american game animal