So, I’ve been shooting my Encore with 100gr of BH209 and a 245gr PowerBelt. Accuracy has been decent, as in I can keep all my shots on a paper plate from field positions out to 100 yards. I may see what the 295gr bullets do. In WA, any primer is legal now and you can have a closed breech. I’m using Federal 209A primers.
Some of the local BP shooters have been really helpful. They have me wanting to buy a traditional rifle, but I’m gonna stick with this and develop some practical experience.
Opinions vary on Powerbelts, but even those who like them seem to prefer the heavier ones, FWIW. 80gr of powder is plenty for any of them. Your Encore can handle better stuff, and by buying sabots and bullets separately you increase you options and save money. Among assembled combinations, I like the Barnes T-EZ 290. I'd like to try the Federal Bore Lokt (or whatever they call it) but have so much other stuff on hand I'll probably never get to them.
