An Encore barrel would assuredly be the more economical route to take. Less than half the price of a BFR.

If I was just looking for performance and not aesthetics with performance, I'd be all in for the Encore. And I'm not saying I ain't. But, while I have several Encore barrels, they are tools without much love. Albeit, very effective tools.

I may yet go the Encore .500 S&W route. But, it would be a 9" + Baffle Brake.

I wouldn't have to trim cases. Load data is readily available. My 2x Burris scope would easily mount............

I'll have a better idea after I get my .480 Ruger SBH. That might scratch my big bore revolver itch and I can go with the Encore barrel in S&W. Like you said, let it be what the case will let it be.

I don't know........