I ordered an Encore Pro Hunter frame assembly for a spare 35 Whelen barrel and went to pick it up yesterday. Big time disappointed. The forend had junks knocked out of the plastic, the butt looked liked the rubber inserts were put in with a dremel tool and hot glue and the frame cross pin was sticking out with a sharp edge that would scratch you. Fortunately, with this shop it was clearly understood when it was ordered that I didn't have to take it if I didn't like it. I didn't take it and they were shipping it back. I don't know if this lack of quality control is normal these days with S&W built Encores but I won't be looking for one.
I haven't had this problem with NH Encores. Lucky for me I went to a local shop today and they had just taken in an older Encore in mint shape. It had a 20 ga. barrel mounted with a Leupold 2-7x32 shotgun scope with the heavy duplex reticle. I paid $550.00 for it and figured it was a hell of a deal.
