It depends on who you are shipping it to and why.
Basically, the Encore frame is considered a firearm by federal standards. So, if you are in a situation that would require you to use an FFL for a regular rifle then, yes you would have to use the ffl for the Encore. Just because it has the M/L barrel on it does not eliminate the requirement for FFL transfers.
If you are shipping it to yourself or a gunsmith/manufacturer for work, then you do not have to go through an FFL. If it is being transfered to another person, then the answer is yes.
Hank
