I have an encore in 300 win mag with a 454 casull pistol barrel, yes, it kicks, but it is very accurate, and i don't mind the recoil so much. i don't get the thing about double up on hearing protection i just wear a pair of ear muffs, and the rifle isn't that light with the bull barrel on the big calibers. i don't think you could go wrong with it, it is as versatile as they come, with the ability to change from rifle to pistol, and switch calibers without loss of zero.
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454Casull when it absolutely Has to be destroyed.