I have been seeing several threads talking/asking about the Encore rifle. I just got my 26" 6.5x55 heavy barrel from the custom shop today. Had the receiver and stock a few months while deciding on which caliber to choose. I did some polishing of the wood using linseed oil and abrasive compounds. The look of the rifle just blows me away. I have to do some finish work on the recoil pad and I plan on beding the forend. I will post pictures of the rifle after I finish Tues. Hopefully I can post pics of my new CZ 452 as well. I put high Leupold rings and a Leupold scope on it and it looks like a classic German rifle. So the Encore, the trigger is good, just a little heavy at about 4/4.5lbs. When my gunsmith has time, I think 2lbs is what I'm shooting for. Plan on replacing grip cap and grinding a new Pachmayr recoil pad for it. Have a locking hinge pin on the way.
If you are considering one or looking at a new rifle. You can get the stock and receiver for $350, then get a 7mm08, .308, .25-06, 26" heavy barrel from Natchez for $244. So you end up with a great rifle with a 26" heavy barrel for under $600. From there, it isn't very hard to tune the rifle into something that looks/shoots like something costing so much more.
If you are considering one or looking at a new rifle. You can get the stock and receiver for $350, then get a 7mm08, .308, .25-06, 26" heavy barrel from Natchez for $244. So you end up with a great rifle with a 26" heavy barrel for under $600. From there, it isn't very hard to tune the rifle into something that looks/shoots like something costing so much more.