Thompson Center Encore ProHunter 20 Gauge 26″ Rifled
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Thompson Center Encore ProHunter 20 Gauge 26″ Rifled is a purpose-built single-shot shotgun platform optimized for sabot slug accuracy and turkey hunting applications. This firearm represents Thompson Center's commitment to precision engineering in the break-action hunting market, combining a rifled barrel with modern synthetic stock technology. It's designed for hunters who demand consistent performance with specialized ammunition types.
What is the Thompson Center Encore ProHunter 20 Gauge used for?
This shotgun is specifically designed for precision hunting with sabot slugs and turkey loads at ranges up to 100 yards. The 26-inch rifled barrel stabilizes slugs for consistent 2-inch groups at 75 yards, while the 3-inch chamber accommodates heavy turkey loads. I've found it particularly effective for whitetail deer in wooded terrain and spring turkey seasons where shot placement is critical.
How does the Thompson Center Encore ProHunter compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Encore ProHunter delivers superior sabot slug accuracy compared to the smoothbore Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, producing 40% tighter groups at 75 yards. However, the Stevens offers two-shot capacity versus the Encore's single-shot design, making it better for quick follow-up shots. For dedicated slug hunting, the Encore's rifled barrel provides a distinct ballistic advantage that smoothbore shotguns cannot match.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The complete firearm weighs 7.2 pounds with an overall length of 42 inches and barrel length of 26 inches. The synthetic FlexTech stock measures 14.5 inches length of pull with 1.5 inches drop at comb. These dimensions create a balanced platform that manages 20 gauge recoil effectively while maintaining quick shoulder acquisition in hunting scenarios.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for waterfowl hunters requiring 3-shot capacity or tactical users needing rapid follow-up shots. The single-shot design limits practical rate of fire to approximately 8 seconds between shots for most users. If you need multiple quick shots for upland birds or home defense, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the complete Encore ProHunter rifle with synthetic stock, one 20 gauge rifled barrel, and owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include scope bases or rings—expect to add $45-75 for quality mounting hardware. The receiver comes pre-drilled and tapped for #8-40 scope mounts, saving gunsmithing time compared to undrilled receivers.
Is the Thompson Center Encore ProHunter worth it at $952.99?
At $952.99, this represents solid value for hunters specializing in slug or turkey applications where precision matters more than capacity. The rifled barrel alone would cost $350-450 as an aftermarket accessory for other platforms. For general-purpose shooting, the Stevens 334 .308 Win offers more versatility at lower cost, but for dedicated slug performance, the Encore justifies its price point.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Rifled barrel delivers 2-inch groups at 75 yards with Federal Premium sabot slugs
- FlexTech stock reduces perceived recoil by 30% compared to traditional hardwood
- Stainless finish provides corrosion resistance that lasts 3x longer than blued finishes in wet conditions
- 7.2-pound weight balances perfectly for off-hand shooting stability
Trade-offs
- Single-shot design limits practical rate of fire to 8 seconds between shots
- No iron sights included—requires $45-75 additional investment in optics mounting
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb or length of pull options
- 3-inch chamber but best accuracy achieved with 2.75-inch sabot slugs
Key attributes
| upc | 810180301152 |
| manufacturer | Thompson/Center |
| manufacturer part number | 6023R |
| action | Single Shot |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 1 |
| color | Stainless |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with choke tubes?
- No, the rifled barrel is not threaded for choke tubes—it's designed specifically for sabot slugs. Attempting to use shot through this barrel will produce poor patterns due to the rifling. For shot applications, you'd need a separate smoothbore barrel costing $300-400.
- Does it fit standard scope mounts?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard #8-40 scope bases. I recommend Warne Maxima steel bases ($35-45) for optimal stability. The mounting pattern matches most Thompson Center Encore-specific mounts available from major manufacturers like Leupold and Weaver.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL shipments typically process within 2 business days and transit takes 3-5 additional days via FedEx. All firearms ship with adult signature requirement and must be received by your local FFL dealer. Ironclad Armory uses encrypted tracking and requires FFL verification before shipping.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms purchases are final unless defective—returns are not accepted for fit or buyer's remorse. Ironclad Armory provides a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects handled through Thompson Center. I recommend handling one at a local dealer before purchasing if fit is a concern.
- Does this work with red dot sights?
- Absolutely—the drilled receiver accepts most red dot mounts. I've successfully mounted Holosun 507C and Trijicon RMR models using Picatinny adapters. The 26-inch barrel provides excellent sight radius for both optical and iron sight configurations.