After reading the muzzleloader pistol post on the hunting board, I got to thinking about the lack of pistol length muzzleloader barrels for the Encore. Bullberry is the only manufacturer currently offering both 50 and 45 caliber muzzleloader barrels, while MGM only offers 45 calibers. But, I began to wonder, has anyone ever sent a rifle length barrel to a gunsmith to be cut down and recrowned?

I?ve been thinking the same thing. I look forward to any insight offered.

Not yet, but I have two for that purpose - one 45 cal and one 50 cal.

I've heard of guys using the 18 inch Katahdin barrels. If you can find one.

Chance
I purchased a TC Encore 209x50 ~2005, no matter what powder, bullet, 209 primer I tried the accuracy was awful. I wrote TC and even had a nice phone conversation with Ken French. I wondered if the QLA (Quick Load Adapter) the unrifled segment at the end of the barrel was the cause of accuracy issues. Taking matters into my own hands, I sent the barrel to SSK Industries, I asked JD to cut off the QLA and recrown the barrel. I can?t remember what it cost maybe $75.00 and about a week turn around. I suspect they would do the same today. Give them a call and see.
Hope this helps
D.

How was the accuracy after the adjustment?

Given some of the instructional videos online about shortening and recrowning barrels (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b43odFm0mrI), I wouldn't be afraid of trying it my self. I would make the barrel ~ 1/2 inch longer then the length I really wanted so there would be some space for a professional to clean it up if needed.

Karl
I did not see much improvement with saboted bullets until I added the MMP Mag Sub base. This barrel must have been a lemon, about 8 weeks after the barrel work the forearm / ramrod extension fell out totally stripped. I gave up on it, ordered a new factory TC 209 x 50. The difference is night and day. It shoots very well.
D.