ENCORE PRO HUNTER QUESTIONS

[efremtags]

I am new to Encores so I need some help. I just picked up a Pro Hunter SS in .50cal ML for $675 after rebate.

What are must have accessories for these guns. I have seen upgrade locker pins and such, but are they absolutely needed.
Are non-pro hunter barrels compatible with this frame (assuming I buy a new forearm). There are some good deals on 26" barrels.
Who is the best out there for trigger work. The trigger is pretty good, no creep, a little heavy (guessing 4-5lbs), but there is some over travel I would like to eliminate.

My next 2 barrels will likely be a 300WM and 223. I have a hookup on 223 brass (life's supply) so it makes economical sense. I am very interested in the 6.5 Grendel because it is a good hunting round for deer for when  the kids get older and I always wanted a hyper accurate bench round. No need for it at the moment.

[ihookem]

Nice price for a pro hunter. Don't bother with hinge pins. It's a gun made well enough you don't need to tinker. Barrels are high though. I was told I can put pro hunter barrels on my Encore so I'm sure you can put on Encore barrels.

[David D.]

The only difference between the two frames are cosmetic and the sling hammer on the Pro Hunter. Like most rifles usually the best accuracy comes from handloads and  good Load-Dev. And sometimes the gun will require some fine tuning. And if you are anything like me I'm always tinkering with my Encores and Contenders to find more accuracy. I've tried different torque on the through bolt for the stock, or grip and forearm screws. Different methods for fastening the forearm such as hanger bars, spacers, etc. And yes sometimes changing things will make a difference. Keep an open mind and enjoy and have fun. As far as trigger jobs search the net there is info out there to do your own.

[valvesinmyhead]

The only thing you should buy is a Prohunter .22lr barrel. I have one. It lets me pactice and get used to the trigger.

[Grumulkin]

Your rifle is good to go right out of the box.  Sometimes oversized hinge pins will eliminate a slight looseness between the frame and the barrel but it's debatable as to how much good it does.  The one thing I think really makes a difference is a trigger job.  The Encore trigger as it comes from the factory is quite serviceable but a 2.5 to 3 lb. trigger is soooo much nicer.

Also barrels, forends and frames are all interchangeable between the regular and Pro Hunter versions.

As far as bases and rings go, I would recommend Warne steel bases and their QD rings.  That way as your barrel collection grows you can easily take the scope off and put it on the barrel you want to use.  It also saves you having to buy multiple scopes and the barrels are easier to store without scopes on them.