Encore Pistol Manual...2 warning read these instructions and warnings carefully. be sure you understand these instructions and warnings before using this firearm. failure to read

Safety & Instruction ManualEncore® PistolRimfire and Centerfire

Including Encore® Pro-Hunter™

THOMPSON/CENTER ARMS2100 Roosevelt Avenue • Springfield, MA 01104

Toll Free Phone 1-866-730-1614www.tcarms.com

Read the instructions andwarnings in this manual

CAREFULLY BEFORE using this firearm.

Rifle, Shotgun and Muzzleloader Variations of the

Encore® Are Covered In Separate Manuals -

Available Free Upon Request.

Copyright © 2018 Smith & Wesson Corp.

All rights reserved.

TC Encore Pistol-080118_00084010.Qxp_Encore Pistol Manual 8/20/18 9:16 AM Page 1

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WARNINGREAD THESE INSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS CAREFULLY.

BE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND THESEINSTRUCTIONS AND WARNINGS BEFOREUSING THIS FIREARM. FAILURE TO READTHESE INSTRUCTIONS AND TO FOLLOWTHESE WARNINGS MAY RESULT IN SERI-

OUS INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU ANDOTHERS AND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY

This SAFETY & INSTRUCTIONMANUAL should always accompany thisfirearm and be transferred with it upon

change of ownership or when the firearmis presented to another person.

Always keep your firearm pointed in a safe direction. Never point a firearm atanything you do not intend to shoot.

If you don’t have a manual, printed copiesare available free upon request by con-

tacting the factory at the address below.They are also available via download from

the company’s web site shown below.

THOMPSON/CENTER ARMS

• CUSTOMER SUPPORT •

2100 Roosevelt Avenue • Springfield, MA 01104

TEL. Toll Free 1-866-730-1614

www.tcarms.com

NOTE: The Encore®, as sold by Thompson/Center, is sold aseither a handgun or a long gun. Changes to the configuration ofthe Encore by the end-user, including but not limited to, a buttstock on a pistol, or a pistol barrel (under 16 inches) on a longgun, may subject the firearm to classification under the NationalFirearms Act, which imposes registration, taxes, and otherrequirements on the owners of such firearms. It is your responsi-bility to comply with all Federal, state and local laws and regula-tions regarding the ownership or possession of a firearm such asthe Encore® and any conversions or additions of any aftermarketaccessories to your Encore®.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

YOUR SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES .................................3-6

SAFE STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION.......................7-8

AMMUNITION..................................................................9-10

MODEL AND FEATURES IDENTIFICATION ..................11-12

INSPECTING.......................................................................13

INSTALLING A BARREL ................................................14-15

PREPARATION FOR FIRING...............................................16

LOADING THE ENCORE® PISTOL.....................................17

FIRING THE ENCORE® PISTOL ...................................18-20

CLEARING MISFIRES.........................................................21

UNLOADING .......................................................................21

SIGHT ADJUSTMENT ...................................................21-22

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE .................................22-24

DISASSEMBLY OF THE ENCORE® ..............................25-26

MOUNTING A SCOPE........................................................27

ENCORE® SWING HAMMER APPENDIX...........................28

INSTALLA TION OF CHOKE TUBES in 45/410 ...................29

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY ...................................30-31

PATENT INFORMATION......................................................34

BATTERY WARNINGS ........................................................35

CONTACT INFORMATION ..................................................36

YOUR SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIESSAFETY IS YOUR NUMBER ONE

RESPONSIBILITY!!!!

• At home, in the field, at the range, or anywhere, the first concernof every firearm owner should be safety. Apply the following safetyrules in every situation, with any kind of firearm. If you feel uncer-tain about any operational aspects of your firearm, please contactThompson/Center before proceeding with its operation.

• If you are unfamiliar with firearms you should seek formal trainingbefore using your firearm.

WARNING: YOU MUST FOLLOW ALL OF THESE SAFETYRULES TO ENSURE THE SAFE USE OF YOUR FIREARM.THE FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS AND

WARNINGS IN THIS MANUAL COULD CAUSE SERIOUS PER-SONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS AND DAMAGETO PROPERTY.

• As a firearm owner, you accept a demanding responsibility. Howseriously you take this responsibility can be the difference betweenlife and death. There is no excuse for careless or abusive handlingof your firearm. At all times handle your firearm with intense respectfor its power and potential danger.


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YOUR SAFETY RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

• ALWAYS KEEP YOUR FIREARM POINTED IN A SAFE DIREC-TION. Never point a firearm at anyone or anything you do notintend to shoot whether or not it is loaded. This is particularlyimportant when loading, unloading, or field stripping the firearm.ALWAYS control the direction of the firearm.

• ALWAYS TREAT EVERY FIREARM AS IF IT IS LOADED ANDWILL FIRE. Do not take anyone’s word that the firearm isunloaded – always check for yourself. Never pass your firearm toanother person until the action is open and you visually check thatit is unloaded. Keep your firearm unloaded and safely stored whennot in use.

• NEVER PLACE YOUR FINGER INSIDE THE TRIGGER GUARDOR ON THE TRIGGER UNLESS YOU INTEND TO FIRE. Ensurethat other objects do not touch the trigger.

• ALWAYS BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND WHAT IS BEYONDIT. Always be sure of where the bullet will strike and shoot onlywhere there is a safe back stop free of obstructions, water or othersurfaces which can cause ricochets. Be sure your bullet will stopbehind your target. Bullets can glance off many surfaces like rocksor the surface of water and travel in unpredictable directions withconsiderable velocity. Do not fire randomly into the sky.

• NEVER CROSS OBSTACLES SUCH AS FENCES OR STREAMSWITH A LOADED FIREARM. Always make certain your firearm isunloaded before crossing a fence, climbing a tree, jumping a ditchor negotiating other obstacles.

• SAFE FIREARM HANDLING IS YOUR PERSONAL RESPONSI-BILITY AT ALL TIMES. Firearms can be dangerous and can causeserious injury or death if they are misused or used inappropriately.Safety must be the prime consideration of anyone who owns orhandles firearms. Accidents are the result of violating the rules ofsafe firearm handling and common sense. Firearm safety trainingis available. Contact your firearms dealer, law enforcement agency,local sportsman’s club, the NRA, etc. for availability.

• YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FIREARM AT ALL TIMES.In owning a firearm, you must undertake full-time responsibility foryour firearm’s safety and security. You must protect yourself andall others against injury or death from misuse of the firearm 24hours a day.

• FIREARM SECURITY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. You mustsecure firearms safely from children and/or unauthorized users.Your firearm should always be kept unloaded and locked when notin use. Never assume that the use of this lock is sufficient to safelysecure your firearm. You must always evaluate your personal situ-ation and employ the security systems that meet your needs andprevent children and unauthorized users from gaining access toyour firearm.


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• APPROPRIATE USE FOR YOUR FIREARM MEANS USINGYOUR FIREARM FOR LEGAL PURPOSES. For example - targetshooting, hunting and lawful resistance of deadly criminal force. Itis your responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with allapplicable laws and ordinances regarding the use of your firearm.

• NEVER RELY ON MECHANICAL FEATURES ALONE. Only yoursafe firearm-handling habits will ensure the safe use of yourfirearm. This is your responsibility.

• ALWAYS SAFELY STORE AND SECURE YOUR FIREARM. Safeand secure storage of your firearm is one of your most importantresponsibilities. It is a full-time responsibility. You must alwayssecure your firearm and ammunition separately so that they arenot accessible to children and/or other unauthorized persons.

• NEVER KEEP AMMUNITION IN THE SAME LOCATION AS THEFIREARM. Store each in a separate and secure place.

• ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION THAT IS SPECIFIED FORUSE WITH FIREARMS every time you handle your firearm forcleaning and maintenance.

• ALWAYS WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION THAT ISSPECIFIED FOR USE WITH FIREARMS every time you dischargeyour firearm. Make sure others in the vicinity of where you will beshooting do so as well.

• NEVER USE ALCOHOL OR DRUGS BEFORE OR WHILESHOOTING. Do not use your firearm if you are on any medicationwhich impairs, even slightly, your mental or physical ability.

• ALWAYS HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION. Discharging firearmsin poorly ventilated areas, cleaning firearms, or handling ammuni-tion may result in exposure to lead and other substances known tocause birth defects, reproductive harm, and other serious physicalinjury. Review the warnings and labels for all ammunition andcleaning products carefully. Wash hands thoroughly after expo-sure.

• BEFORE HANDLING ANY FIREARM, UNDERSTAND ITS OPER-ATION. Not all firearms are the same. Familiarize yourself with themechanical features of any firearm you intend to use. If you feeluncertain about any operational aspects of your firearm, pleasecontact Thompson/Center, before proceeding with its operation.

• NEVER ALLOW A FIREARM TO BE USED BY INDIVIDUALSWHO DO NOT UNDERSTAND ITS SAFE OPERATION OR HAVENOT READ THESE FIREARM SAFETY RULES.


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• ALWAYS USE THE CORRECT AMMUNITION FOR YOUR PAR-TICULAR FIREARM as indicated by the marking on the firearm.Never use non-standard, reloaded, or “handloaded” ammunitionwhich has not been subjected to internal ballistic pressure testing.

• BEWARE OF BARREL OBSTRUCTIONS Be sure the barrel is clearof obstructions before shooting. Mud, water, snow or other objectsmay inadvertently lodge in the barrel bore. A small obstruction cancause a dangerous increase in pressure and may damage yourfirearm and cause injury to yourself and others.

• BE SURE ALL ACCESSORIES, SUCH AS HOLSTERS, GRIPS,SLINGS, SCOPES AND OTHER ACCESSORIES ARE COMPATI-BLE with the firearm and that the accessories do not interfere withsafe operation. It is your responsibility to understand and follow allof the instructions in this manual,as well as those which may besupplied with your ammunition and any accessory.

• NEVER DISASSEMBLE YOUR FIREARM beyond the field strip-ping procedure outlined in this manual. Improper disassembly orreassembly of your firearm may be dangerous and can lead to seri-ous injury or death.

• NEVER MANIPULATE, ADJUST OR CHANGE ANY OF THEINTERNAL COMPONENTS OF YOUR FIREARM UNLESSSPECIFICALLY INSTRUCTED TO DO SO IN THIS MANUAL.Improper manipulation of any other internal component may affectthe safety and reliability of your firearm and may cause seriousinjury or death.

• NEVER ALLOW ANY ALTERATION OR REPLACEMENT OFPARTS IN YOUR THOMPSON/CENTER FIREARM UNLESS PER-FORMED BY A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH using genuineThompson/Center parts. If you do otherwise, improper functioningof your firearm may occur and serious injury or death and damageto property may result.

WARNING: SAFE USE OF A FIREARM IS YOUR PERSON-AL RESPONSIBILITY AND THE FAILURE TO FOLLOW ALLOF THESE BASIC SAFETY RULES MAY RESULT IN

SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERSAND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY. YOU ARE THE MOST IMPORTANTSAFETY DEVICE WHEN IT COMES TO THE USE OF YOURFIREARM AND THOMPSON/CENTER AND ITS PARENT COMPA-NY WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY PERSONAL INJURY,DEATH OR PROPERTY DAMAGE THAT RESULTS FROM: (1) THE CRIMINAL OR NEGLIGENT USE OF THIS FIREARM; (2) A DISREGARD OF THESE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ANDWARNINGS; (3) IMPROPER OR CARELESS HANDLING OF THIS FIREARM; (4) THE USE OF NON-STANDARD, DEFECTIVE OR IMPROPERAMMUNITION; (5) IMPROPER OR NEGLIGENT MODIFICATIONS OR REPAIRS TOTHE FIREARM.


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SAFE STORAGEAND TRANSPORTATION

WARNING: ALWAYS POINT THE MUZZLE IN A SAFEDIRECTION.

WARNING: FIREARMS ARE DANGEROUS WHEN USEDAND STORED IMPROPERLY. THEY POSE A RISK OFSERIOUS OR FATAL INJURIES. FIREARMS CAN BE

ESPECIALLY DANGEROUS TO CHILDREN WHEN THEY ARESTORED IN AN IRRESPONSIBLE AND UNSAFE MANNER. FORYOUR SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS, IT IS IMPERA-TIVE THAT YOU KEEP YOUR FIREARM UNLOADED ANDLOCKED IN A SECURE PLACE. THE AMMUNITION SHOULD BESTORED IN A SEPARATE, SECURE LOCATION WHEN IT IS NOTIN USE. SAFE AND SECURE STORAGE OF YOUR FIREARM ISONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT RULES OF FIREARM SAFETY.YOUR FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE RULES MAY RESULT INSERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS.

• ALWAYS SECURE YOUR FIREARM IN A MANNER THAT WILLPREVENT UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS. Whenever your firearm isnot in use, keep it unloaded and locked. Your safety and the safe-ty of others requires that you always secure and store your firearmin a manner that will prevent unauthorized access. Never leave afirearm unattended unless it is locked, unloaded and secured.

• ALWAYS USE THE LOCK PROVIDED BY THOMPSON/CENTERTO SECURE YOUR FIREARM. Please read and follow theinstructions packaged separately for the use of this lock. A lock,when properly used, can be an effective tool in preventing unau-thorized access to your firearm. There are other alternative locksand safe storage containers available in the marketplace whichmay also be appropriate for your particular needs. Consult yourlocal gun shop, hardware store, or local police department forguidance on the variety of other safe storage devices or practiceswhich may be appropriate for your particular needs. By purchasingthis firearm you have accepted the responsibility of safely securingthe firearm at all times and preventing its unauthorized use. Neverassume that the use of this lock alone is sufficient to safely secureyour firearm. It is your personal responsibility to select and usewhatever measures or practices that will enable you to beabsolutely certain that your firearm is secure at all times.

WARNING: NEVER LOCK A LOADED FIREARM ANDNEVER LOAD A LOCKED FIREARM!!


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SAFE STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION CONTINUED

• ALWAYS STORE YOUR FIREARM AND AMMUNITION SEPA-RATELY so that they are not accessible to children or other unau-thorized persons. Safe and secure storage of your firearm andammunition are your responsibility. It is a full-time responsibility.

• NEVER ASSUME THAT A “HIDING” PLACE IS A SECURESTORAGE METHOD. Others may be aware of your storage loca-tion or come upon it by chance. It is your personal responsibilityto use common sense when storing your firearm and ammunitionand to always make sure they are not accessible to children orother unauthorized persons.

• NEVER TRANSPORT A LOADED FIREARM. When transportingyour firearm, be sure it is unloaded and locked. Safe and securetransportation of your firearm is your responsibility.

• ALWAYS FOLLOW THE LAW! Many jurisdictions have laws thatmake it a crime to keep a firearm unlocked and in an area accessi-ble to children or others. Keeping a firearm locked and unloadedwhen not in use is not only common sense safety practice... IT ISTHE LAW. You must be familiar with all local, state, and federallaws regarding the safe storage and transportation of your firearm.Failure to know and follow the law may result in unauthorizedaccess or use of your firearm by another. Obey all laws relating tothe storage and transportation of firearms. Your local policedepartment or gun shop can furnish you with available informationon storing and/or transporting a firearm safely and legally.

• YOUR FIREARM IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY. You must preventyour firearm from being stolen or from being used by untrained orunqualified individuals. Keep it locked, unloaded and securedwhen not in use. Use the lock provided to secure against unautho-rized users (FIGURE 1).

Hammer LockSurrounds

Hammer

ENCORE® HAMMER LOCK BEING INSTALLED

FIGURE 1


AMMUNITIONWARNING: NEVER USE AMMUNITION NOT SPECIFICAL-LY DESIGNATED FOR USE IN YOUR FIREARM. FAILURETO USE THE CORRECT TYPE OR CALIBER OF AMMUNI-

TION MAY CAUSE THE FIREARM TO JAM, OR FAIL TO FIRE, ORMAY GENERATE EXCESSIVE PRESSURE WHICH CAN DAMAGEOR EVEN RUPTURE YOUR FIREARM, CAUSING PERSONALINJURY OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER OR BYSTANDERS.

• Locate the cartridge designation marked on the barrel. This infor-mation indicates the correct ammunition that must be used in thisfirearm (FIGURE 2).

• You are responsible for selecting ammunition that meets industrystandards and is appropriate in type and caliber for this firearm.

• Never mix ammunition.

WARNING: IN SOME CASES, A ROUND OF AMMUNITIONNOT SPECIFIED ON YOUR FIREARM AND NOT LISTEDAS ALTERNATE AMMUNITION IN THIS MANUAL, MAY

FIT INTO THE CHAMBER. FIRING THIS AMMUNITION MAYCAUSE A RUPTURE RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO THE FIREARMAND PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER ORBYSTANDERS. FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING UNSAFECALIBER COMBINATIONS, REFER TO THE FOLLOWING URL: HTTP://WWW.SAAMI.ORG/SPECIFICATIONS_AND_INFORMA-TION/PUBLICATIONS/DOWNLOAD/SAAMI_ITEM_211-UNSAFE_ARMS_AND_AMMUNITION_COMBINATIONS.PDF

WARNING: ALWAYS INSPECT YOUR AMMUNITIONBEFORE USING IT. NEVER USE DIRTY, CORRODED ORDAMAGED AMMUNITION. A BURST CARTRIDGE MAY

RESULT CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE FIREARM AND PERSONALINJURY OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER OR BYSTANDERS.

• Use only commercially manufactured ammunition with internal ballisticpressures which are in strict accordance with the specifications of theSporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI). If youare uncertain, contact your ammunition supplier for verification.

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TYPICAL ENCORE MODEL CALIBER MARKING ON BARREL

FIGURE 2


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AMMUNITION CONTINUED

WARNING: NEVER USE NON-STANDARD, RELOADEDOR “HANDLOADED” AMMUNITION WHICH HAS NOTBEEN SUBJECTED TO INTERNAL BALLISTIC PRESSURE

TESTING. RELOADED OR HANDLOADED AMMUNITION, MAYHAVE MANY MANUFACTURING AND QUALITY VARIABLES(SUCH AS THE TYPE AND AMOUNT OF GUN POWDER). CAR-TRIDGE CASES THAT HAVE BEEN RELOADED AND FIRED MUL-TIPLE TIMES MAY SUFFER PHYSICAL DAMAGE WHICH COULDSIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT OR REDUCE THE INTEGRITY OF THECARTRIDGE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN BULLET SETBACK ORUNSEATING. CASE FAILURE AND INJURY TO THE SHOOTEROR BYSTANDERS AND DAMAGE TO THE FIREARM MAYRESULT WHEN SUCH A ROUND IS FIRED. ANY AMMUNITIONTHAT IS IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED OR RELOADED, EVENIN THE SLIGHTEST DEGREE, MAY FAIL TO FIRE OR MAY GEN-ERATE EXCESSIVE INTERNAL PRESSURES WHICH CAN DAM-AGE OR EVEN RUPTURE THE FIREARM, CAUSING PERSONALINJURY OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER OR THOSE IN THEIMMEDIATE VICINITY.

• A firearm and ammunition are a system and must work together.There are different types of ammunition for different types offirearms. Your firearm has been designed for ammunition of a spe-cific type and a specific gauge or caliber. It is important to selectthe proper ammunition for your firearm.

• Different combinations of bullet velocity, bullet weight and firearmweight can have major impact on felt recoil; a high level of feltrecoil can be uncomfortable to some shooters.

WARNING: NEVER USE CARTRIDGES OR SHELLSOTHER THAN THOSE DESIGNATED BY THE MARKINGON THE BARREL. DOING SO CAN RESULT IN DANGER-

OUSLY HIGH PRESSURES THAT MAY DAMAGE THE FIREARMAND POSSIBLY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO YOURSELF ANDOTHERS.

WARNING: DEATH, SERIOUS INJURY AND PROPERTYDAMAGE CAN RESULT FROM THE USE OF INCORRECTAMMUNITION OR BORE OBSTRUCTIONS. NEVER USE

RELOADED AMMUNITION THAT HAS NOT BEEN SUBJECTEDTO INTERNAL BALLISTIC PRESSURE TESTING.

WARNING: DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTI-LATED AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS, OR HANDLINGAMMUNITION MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD

AND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TO CAUSE BIRTHDEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM, AND OTHER SERIOUSPHYSICAL INJURY. HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION AT ALLTIMES. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE.


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MODEL AND FEATURESIDENTIFICATION

SERIALNUMBER

MARKING

FIGURE 4

Note about Encore® Forends:Different Encore® barrel configurations i.e. rifle, shotgun, pistol

and muzzleloading barrels may require different forends. Check with your dealer or consult the

Thompson/Center catalog or www.tcarms.com for the appropriate forend for your barrel.

GRIP

MUZZLEFRAME

HAMMER

FOREND

TRIGGER

REAR SIGHT - ON THOSE MODELS SO-EQUIPPED

FRONT SIGHT -ON THOSE MODELS

SO-EQUIPPED

BARREL

FIGURE 3

GRIP CAP

TRIGGER GUARD SPUR

Note about Encore® Interchangeability:Encore® barrels and frames come in blued and stainless steel

configurations - the blued and the stainless steel barrels and frames will interchange readily.


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MODEL & FEATURES IDENTIFICATION CONTINUED

WARNING: DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE ANY OF THEPARTS IN YOUR FIREARM UNLESS THEY ARE GENUINETHOMPSON/CENTER PARTS AND YOU FOLLOW THE

INSTRUCTIONS SUPPLIED. IF YOU DO OTHERWISE, IMPROPERFUNCTIONING MAY OCCUR AND SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATHMAY RESULT. IN ADDITION TO THE DANGERS PRESENTED,THE USE OF NON-FACTORY PARTS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIM-ITED TO BARRELS AND SPRINGS VOIDS ALL WARRANTIES.

Firearm Model Designation On The Encore’s Barrel

FIGURE 5

Grip

FrameAssembly

Hinge Pin

Barrel

ForendScrews

Forend

Grip Bolt

FIGURE 7Grip Cap AND Screws

OLDER MODEL - TCA - “E”ENCORE® MODEL FRAME IDEN-

TIFIER MARKING

FIGURE 6b

ENCORE®

FRAME MARKING

FIGURE 6a


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INSPECTINGWARNING: ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE FIREARM ISUNLOADED BEFORE INSPECTING, DISASSEMBLING,ASSEMBLING OR CLEANING AND ALWAYS KEEP THE

MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.

INSPECTING

• With your finger away from the trig-ger and with the hammer in the “ATREST” position (FIGURE 8), openthe action by pulling up and backon the trigger guard spur (FIGURES 10a and 10b).

• Look into the barrel from thebreech end to make sure there isno shell in the chamber (FIGURE 9).

• Verify that the bore is clear and free of obstructions.

• You must follow this procedureevery time a firearm leaves yourhand, is cleaned, handed to you oranother person, transported orstored.

WARNING: NEVER RELY ON MECHANICAL FEATURESALONE. ONLY YOUR SAFE GUN HANDLING WILLENSURE THE SAFE USE OF YOUR FIREARM. THIS IS

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

• Before using your firearm for the first time, it should be cleaned.

FIGURE 9

Empty Chamber

Hammer in the “AT REST” position

FIGURE 8

FIGURE 10a

FIGURE 10b

Open the action by pulling up and back ontrigger guard spur -allowing the barrel tofall open.


INSTALLING A BARRELWARNING: ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN ASAFE DIRECTION.

WARNING: ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE FIREARM ISUNLOADED WHILE INSPECTING OR ASSEMBLING.

• Before assembly, apply a light film of quality gun oil to all metal parts.

• To install a barrel and corresponding forend on the grip/frame assem-bly follow thesesteps:

• The forend must beremoved from anybarrel before it canbe installed on theframe.

• Insert the barrel luginto the frame (FIG-URE 11).

• Align the hinge pinholes of the barreland frame and insertthe hinge pin (FIG-URE 12).

• With the hinge pincentered in the frame(not protruding fromeither side) tip thebarrel up and closed on the frame (FIGURE 13).

• Install the forend ontothe barrel. Placethe rear of the forendagainst the receiver.Align the holes in theforend over the holesin the barrel (Fig. 14AND 15) and securethe forend into placeusing the suppliedscrews.

14

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 12

FIGURE 13

FIGURE 14

Insert barrel lug into frame

Align holes and insert hinge pin

Close barrel on frame

The forend holds the hinge pin in place

FIGURE 15

Install forend


INSTALLING A BARREL CONTINUED

• With your fingeraway from the trig-ger and the hammerin the “AT REST”position, open thebarrel by holding thepistol by the gripand pulling up andback on the triggerguard spur to unlock the barrel, allowing it to tip down (FIGURE16).

• Practice opening and closing the Encore before you attempt toload and fire it.

NOTE: Place your finger low on the spur for max i mum leverage, and give it a fast, sharp pull to open the barrel.

NOTE: The modular nature of the Encore design also allows easyinterchange of barrels, grips and forends along with sights andscope mounts (see our catalog or www.tcarms.com for currentoptions).

WARNING: DO NOT ADD OR REPLACE ANY OF THEPARTS IN YOUR FIREARM UNLESS THEY ARE GENUINETHOMPSON/CENTER PARTS AND YOU FOLLOW THE

INSTRUCTIONS SUPPLIED. IF YOU DO OTHERWISE, IMPROPERFUNCTIONING MAY OCCUR AND SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATHMAY RESULT. IN ADDITION TO THE DANGERS PRESENTED,THE USE OF NON-FACTORY PARTS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIM-ITED TO BARRELS AND SPRINGS, VOIDS ALL WARRANTIES.

15

FIGURE 16

OpenAction


16

PREPARATION FOR FIRINGWARNING: FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE FIREARMSAFETY REQUIREMENTS WILL CAUSE SERIOUS PER-SONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS.

• ALWAYS TREAT ALL FIREARMS AS IF THEY ARE LOADEDAND WILL FIRE IF THE TRIGGER IS PULLED.

• ALWAYS BE SURE THAT THE ACTION OF THE ENCORE® ISOPEN, THAT THE CHAMBER IS CLEAR OF A CARTRIDGE ANDTHAT THE ENCORE® IS POINTING IN A SAFE DIRECTION.

• ALWAYS WEAR ADEQUATE AND PROPER HEARING PROTEC-TION SPECIFIED FOR FIREARM USE to prevent permanentdamage to your hearing. Make sure others who are nearby arewearing hearing protection as well.

• ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES SPECIFIED FOR FIREARMUSE, whether indoors or out. Safety glasses should protect youreyes from the firing flash and particles associated with the dis-charge of ammunition. Failure to do so creates a risk of personalinjury from particle or debris spitting or ricochets.

• ALWAYS BE ALERT AND ALWAYS FOLLOW THE SAFETYINSTRUCTIONS OF THE RANGE OFFICER. Never shoot if youare tired, cold or impaired in any way.

• ALWAYS BE AWARE OF OTHER PEOPLE so they do not acci-dentally walk into the line of fire.

• THE SHOOTER (AND ALL OTHERS IN THE SHOOTING AREA)MUST ALWAYS BE IN A POSITION THAT IS OUT OF THE LINEOF FIRE and are not within an area where they may be struck by aricochet or particles spitting from a firearm, or by ejected casesfrom some types of firearms.

• NEVER SHOOT AT SURFACES THAT MAY CAUSE A RICOCHET.Always select a place to shoot that has a safe backstop, is free fromobstructions and has no surfaces which may cause a ricochet.

• NEVER FIRE RANDOMLY INTO THE SKY. Always select a placeto shoot that has a safe backstop.

• NEVER USE ALCOHOL OR DRUGS BEFORE OR WHILESHOOTING OR HANDLING ANY FIREARM.


17

LOADING THEENCORE® PISTOL

WARNING: ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN ASAFE DIRECTION.

• To load the Encore, open the action by pulling up and back on thespur of the trigger guard (FIGURE 17). The barrel tilts downward atthe muzzle (FIGURE 18).

• Push the cartridge forward into the chamber (FIGURE 19).

• Grasp the forend and tip the barrel up to close the action.

• Do not force the barrel closed on a live round. If the barrel doesn’tclose smoothly, remove the cartridge from the chamber andinspect it and the chamber. If you are unable to recognize and correct the problem, call the Thompson/Center Customer Service Department at 1-866-730-1614.

FIGURE 17

FIGURE 18

FIGURE 19


LOADING THE ENCORE®CONTINUED

WARNING: NEVER USE CARTRIDGES OR SHELLSOTHER THAN THOSE DESIGNATED BY THE MARKINGON THE BARREL. DOING SO CAN RESULT IN DANGER-

OUSLY HIGH PRESSURES THAT MAY DAMAGE THE FIREARMAND POSSIBLY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO YOURSELF ANDOTHERS.

WARNING: FORCING THE ACTION CLOSED ON A LIVE ROUND MAY CAUSE ACCIDENTAL DIS-CHARGE. AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE MAY CAUSE

INJURY OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER OR BYSTANDERSAND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

• The instant before firing, when your complete attention is devotedto making a safe shot, load the Encore. With the muzzle pointed ina safe direction, open the action, tip the barrel down - place a car-tridge in the chamber. Tip the barrel back up and lock it closed -at this point the firearm is loaded.

FIRING THEENCORE® PISTOL


WARNING: WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTIONSPECIFIED FOR FIREARM USE EVERY TIME YOU DIS-CHARGE YOUR FIREARM. MAKE SURE OTHERS IN THE

VICINITY OF WHERE YOU WILL BE SHOOTING DO SO ASWELL.

WARNING: ALWAYS HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION.CLEANING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATEDAREAS, DISCHARGING FIREARMS, OR HANDLING

AMMUNITION AND LOADING COMPONENTS MAY RESULT INEXPOSURE TO LEAD AND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TOCAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM AND OTHERSERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLYAFTER EXPOSURE.

WARNING: NEVER RELY ON MECHANICAL FEATURESALONE. ONLY YOUR SAFE GUN HANDLING WILLENSURE THE SAFE USE OF YOUR FIREARM. THIS IS

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

• Grasp firearm firmly with the trigger finger resting along and out-side of the trigger guard.

18


FIRING THE ENCORE® CONTINUED

• Draw the hammer back to thefull rearward “Cocked” position(FIGURE 20).

• The Encore will now fire when pressure is applied to the trigger.

• Place your finger on the triggerand squeeze it until the gun fires.

• If you decide not to fire; make sure the firearm is always pointed ina safe direction - then you must carefully lower the hammer fromthe "Cocked" position to the "At Rest" position. To do this, placethe thumb of your free handbetween the hammer and theframe to prevent the hammerfrom moving fully forward untilyour finger is off the trigger andout of the trigger guard (FIGURE21).

• Place the thumb of your firinghand on the hammer spur. Youmust always control the hammerwith your thumbs when decock-ing the firearm. If the hammerslips while the trigger is held tothe rear and you have failed toblock the hammer travel, yourfirearm will fire (FIGURE 22).

• Apply pressure to the trigger torelease the hammer as shown(FIGURE 22). Immediately afterthe hammer has come out ofthe cocked position, release thetrigger and withdraw your fingerfrom the trigger guard (FIGURE 23).

19

Hammer in “COCKED” position

FIGURE 20

FIGURE 21

FIGURE 22

FIGURE 23


20

FIRING THE ENCORE® CONTINUED

• Carefully ease the hammer for-ward while removing your otherthumb from between the ham-mer and the frame (FIGURE 24)until the hammer is in the "AtRest" position (FIGURE 25).

• Open the barrel and remove thecartridge from the chamber (orthe primer from the breech plugof the Encore® muzzleloader)(FIGURE 26).

WARNING: IF YOURFIREARM GIVES ANYINDICATION THAT IT IS

NOT PERFORMING PROPERLYOR THE OPERATION OF YOURFIREARM HAS CHANGED “THEWAY IT FEELS OR SOUNDS”,STOP FIRING. MAKE SURE THEFIREARM IS POINTED IN A SAFEDIRECTION, UNLOAD THEFIREARM AND HAVE ITINSPECTED BY A FACTORYTECHNICIAN. CALL THOMP-SON/CENTER CUSTOMER SERVICE.

WARNING: WHEN FIRING THE ENCORE

®,

HOLD IT FIRMLY, AL -LOW ING YOUR BODYWEIGHT TO ABSORB ANDBUFFER THE FORCE OFTHE RECOIL. AN IMPROP-ERLY HELD FIREARM CANCAUSE INJURY AND/ORBRUISING.

NOTE: Use “Snap Caps” of the appropriate cartridge designationwhen “dry-firing” the Encore to avoid damage to the firing pin.

Use a firm grip tocontrol the firearmduring recoil.

FIGURE 27

FIGURE 24

FIGURE 25

FIGURE 26


21

CLEARING MISFIRESWARNING: ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN ASAFE DIRECTION.

WARNING: IF YOUR FIREARM GIVES ANY INDICATIONTHAT IT IS NOT PERFORMING PROPERLY OR THEOPERATION OF YOUR FIREARM HAS CHANGED “THE

WAY IT FEELS OR SOUNDS”, STOP FIRING. MAKE SURE THEFIREARM IS POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION, UNLOAD THEFIREARM AND HAVE IT INSPECTED BY A FACTORY TECHNI-CIAN. CALL THOMPSON/CENTER CUSTOMER SUPPORT.

• If a cartridge fails to fire, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direc-tion and wait 10 seconds before opening the barrel and removingthe suspect cartridge.

• Remove the defective cartridge and dispose of it in a methodspecifically approved for live round disposal.

UNLOADINGWARNING: ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN ASAFE DIRECTION.

• With the hammer in the “At Rest” position, open the action andremove the cartridge from the chamber (FIG. 28 & 29).

SIGHT ADJUSTMENTWARNING: ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN ASAFE DIRECTION.

WARNING: NEVER ATTEMPT TO ADJUST ANY PART OFA LOADED FIREARM. AN AC CI DEN TAL DIS CHARGE CANCAUSE IN JU RY AND/OR DEATH TO THE SHOOT ER OR

BY STAND ERS AND DAMAGE TO PROP ER TY.

FIGURE 28

Open The ActionRemove Cartridge

FIGURE 29

Empty Chamber


22

SIGHT ADJUSTMENT CONTINUED

• On those barrels equipped with adjustable sights: the rear sight isad just able by moving the elevation “blade” up or down to changethe point of impact (FIGURE 30). To do this, turn the el e va tionadjustment screw clockwise (as viewed from the receiver end) tolower the point of impact, and counter-clockwise, to raise thepoint of im pact.

• To ad justwind age itis nec es -sary tomove therear sightleaf left orright byus ing theslot ted screw head on the right side of the rear sight. Move therear sight blade in the di rec tion you want your shots to hit--(Example; Turn the screw clock wise - thereby moving the sightblade to the right, to move your shots to the right and counter-clockwise to move the shots to the left).

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCEWARNING: ENSURE THAT YOUR FIREARM ISUNLOADED BEFORE BEGINNING TO CLEAN IT. (SEE “INSPECTING YOUR FIREARM” SECTION).

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE RULES OF SAFE FIREARM HANDLING.

WARNING: WEAR EYE PROTECTION SPECIFIED FORFIREARM USE EVERY TIME YOU CLEAN OR MAINTAINYOUR FIREARM.

• Before using your firearm for the first time, it should be cleaned.

• Your firearm was treated at the factory with either a preservative or oilto protect it against corrosion during shipping and storage.

• Preservative and oil should be wiped from the bore, chamber andexposed areas using a clean swab or patch before using the firearm.

CAUTION: Never disassemble your firearm beyond the instructions inthe Field Stripping and Inspection sections of this manual.

• Purchase cleaning supplies from your firearms dealer that are specifi-cally designated for your type and caliber of firearm. Many suppliersoffer these in kit form for your convenience.

Windage Adjustment Screw Elevation Adjustment

Screw

FIGURE 30


23

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE CONTINUED

• Follow the instructions provided with your cleaning supplies.

NOTE: A basic firearm cleaning kit should include: a brass bore brushand a cleaning jag of appropriate size for the bore being cleaned, high-quality gun cleaning solvent and gun oil/lubricant, cotton cleaning patch-es and a cleaning rod that is long enough to push the brush and jag com-pletely through the barrel.

• Remove excessive firing residue from the bore and chamber using aproperly fitted brass brush dipped in gun cleaning solvent. Finish thebore cleaning process by running a dry cotton cloth patch through thebore to remove residue and solvent.

• Clean the exterior of the firearm using a non-abrasive cleaning cloth.

• After cleaning, lightly coat the metal parts, internal and external with ahigh quality firearm oil.

• Whenever your firearm has been exposed to sand, dust, extremehumidity, water or other adverse conditions, it must be cleaned andlubricated.

WARNING: ALWAYS HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION.CLEANING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS,DISCHARGING FIREARMS, OR HANDLING AMMUNITION

MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD AND OTHER SUBSTANCESKNOWN TO CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM ANDOTHER SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLYAFTER EXPOSURE.

CAUTION: Always follow the instructions provided with your gun cleanerand gun lubricant.

CAUTION: Some cleaners can cause damage to your firearms. Youshould avoid prolonged solvent immersion and prolonged ultrasoniccleaning of your firearm. Choice of solvent should be restricted to thoseproducts specifically developed for firearms maintenance. Damage to afirearm’s finish may occur if these cautions are ignored. Ammoniated sol-vents or other strong alkaline solvents, should not be used on anyThompson/Center firearm. Cleaning is essential to ensure the properfunctioning of your firearm.

• Your firearm is a precision instrument. To ensure reliable function it isnecessary to follow a routine maintenance procedure. After firing yourfirearm, be sure to unload it following the procedure outlined in the sec-tion entitled “Inspecting Your Firearm” before performing any cleaningor maintenance procedure.

• Remove any gun cleaning solution, oil and fingerprints from the outsidesurfaces of the firearm. (Finger moisture, if left, could start a corrosionprocess.)


24

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE CONTINUED

WARNING: NEVER MANIPULATE, ADJUST OR CHANGEANY OF THE INTERNAL COMPONENTS OF YOURFIREARM UNLESS SPECIFICALLY DIRECTED TO DO SO

IN THIS MANUAL. IMPROPER MANIPULATION OF ANY INTER-NAL COMPONENT MAY AFFECT THE SAFETY AND RELIABILITYOF YOUR FIREARM AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY ORDEATH. IT ALSO VOIDS YOUR WARRANTY.

WARNING: ANY MAINTENANCE, ADJUSTMENT OR SER-VICE NOT SPECIFIED IN THIS MANUAL MAY AFFECTTHE SAFETY AND RELIABILITY OF YOUR FIREARM AND

MUST BE PERFORMED BY A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH USINGGENUINE THOMPSON/CENTER PARTS. IF YOU DO OTHER-WISE, IMPROPER FUNCTIONING OF YOUR FIREARM MAYOCCUR AND SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH MAY RESULT.

• If your firearm will be used in a cold climate, be sure to use an oilof an appropriate weight so that it will not congeal in cold temper-atures, causing the interaction of important parts to be slowed orhalted.

MAINTENANCE BEFORE STORAGE

• When storing, do not encase your firearm in anything that willattract or hold moisture, for example, leather or heavy cloth. Also,do not store guns with a plug inserted in the barrel for this can bea contributing factor to moisture accumulation. If your firearm is tobe stored for an extended period, the bore, chamber and internalsurfaces should be oiled with a high-quality lubricating oil orpreservative intended for firearms. The external parts; receiver, boltand barrel should be coated with an anti-rust oil. Before using yourfirearm again, be sure to clean it. Every time you clean yourfirearm, check it for signs of wear. If wear is noted, do not use thefirearm. Return it to Thompson/Center for service or have itchecked by a qualified gunsmith.


25

DISASSEMBLY OF THEENCORE® PISTOL


WARNING: ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE FIREARM ISUNLOADED BEFORE BEGINNING TO DISASSEMBLE IT.ALWAYS FOLLOW THE RULES OF SAFE GUN HANDLING.

The Encore® breaks down into three basic groups of parts:

• Frame Assembly - This assembly is held to the grip by a stockdraw bolt. The fire control mechanism (hammer, sear, firing pin,etc.) is housed within the frame. The hinge pin is also included inthis group.

• Barrel - It is held to the receiver by the hinge pin which anchorsthe bar rel lug to the frame.

• The Grip and Forend - The grip and forend which are available inwalnut and composite material.

CAUTION: The stock bolt on your Encore® should not be over-tight-ened. If you apply too much force to your stock bolt during re-assembly, you may compress the stock material and induce crack-ing in the stock grip area. Such cracking can lead to a prematurefailure of the stock. The stock bolt must be torqued to 50 inch-pounds (plus or minus 5 inch-pounds).

• Always use the stock bolt and washer provided with your Encore®.Use of non-factory stock bolts or stock bolts without washers canlead to stock failures.

WARNING: IF, AT ANY TIME DURING DISASSEMBLY ORREASSEMBLY OF YOUR ENCORE® YOU NOTICECRACKING IN THE STOCK AT OR NEAR THE STOCK

ATTACHMENT BOLT, DISCONTINUE USE OF YOUR STOCK ANDRETURN IT TO SMITH & WESSON FOR INSPECTION.

NOTE: Federal law prohibits the use of a butt stock on a firearm thathas a barrel less than sixteen (16) inches in length.

WARNING: NEVER DISASSEMBLE YOUR FIREARMBEYOND THE PROCEDURES OUTLINED IN THIS MANU-AL. IMPROPER DISASSEMBLY OR RE-ASSEMBLY OF

YOUR FIREARM MAY BE DANGEROUS AND CAN LEAD TOSERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.


DISASSEMBLY OF THE ENCORE® PISTOL CONTINUED

TAKEDOWN OF THE ENCORE® PISTOL.

• With the hammer in the “At Rest” position, open the action andmake sure that the chamber is empty - then close the action.

• Remove the forend screw(s). Turn these screws out counter-clock-wise (as viewed from the bottom of the gun). Remove the forendfrom the barrel.

• Open the action to ease the tension on the hinge pin and removethe hinge pin by tapping it out (in ei ther direction). Remove thebarrel from the frame.

• This diagram shows the extent to which the Encore should be dis-assembled by the user for routine maintenance and interchange ofaccessory grips, barrels and forends (FIGURE 31).

• To reassemble, reverse these steps, making sure that you checkfor prop er func tion ing of the hammer/trigger mechanism prior toloading and firing.

• If other service is required, con tact the Thompson/CenterCustomer Service Department at 1-866-730-1614.

26

Grip

FrameAssembly

Hinge Pin

Barrel

ForendScrews

Forend

Grip Bolt

FIGURE 31Grip Cap AND Screws


27

MOUNTING A SCOPEWARNING: ALWAYS ENSURE THAT THE FIREARM ISUNLOADED BEFORE INSTALLING A SCOPE OR ANYOTHER ACCESSORIES. FAILURE TO DO THIS CAN

CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH TO YOU OR OTHERS.

• We recommend that you have a competent gunsmith install yourscope and mount.

• The Encore® is factory drilled and tapped to accept a scope mountbase. Different scopes have varying lengths of recommended eyerelief. You need to choose a combination that allows for adequateclearance between the scope and your eye brow. Follow theinstructions supplied with the scope and rings for proper installa-tion (FIGURE 32).

NOTE: Encore pistols are intended to be fired at arms length.Therefore, the scope used should be designated as a “Pistol Scope”- Use of a short eye-relief scope IS NOT recommended.

WARNING: FIRING A SCOPED FIREARM WITH YOUREYE TOO CLOSE TO THE SCOPE EYE PIECE, OR FAIL-ING TO HOLD THE FIREARM SECURELY AGAINST

RECOIL, MAY RESULT IN SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURYINCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, BLINDNESS.

WARNING: A SCOPE WHICH IS NOT SECURELY MOUNT-ED MAY BECOME DETACHED UPON RECOIL OF THEFIREARM. IF IT BECOMES DETACHED IT MAY FLY BACK

AND STRIKE THE SHOOTER OR A BYSTANDER AND CAUSEINJURY. OBSERVE THE CONDITION OF ALL THE SCOPEMOUNT SCREWS AFTER FIRING. IF THE MOUNTING SCREWSSHOW SIGNS OF LOOSENING DO NOT FIRE THE GUN AGAIN;CALL THE THOMPSON/CENTER CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPT.FOR ASSISTANCE AT 1-866-730-1614.

FIGURE 32

Follow the instructions supplied with the scope and rings to ensure proper eye relief


28

ENCORE® SWING HAMMERAPPENDIX

Use and care of the Encore® Pro-Hunter™

Swing Hammer® System

• To make it easier to cock your Encore® Pro-Hunter™ when ascope is mounted, it comes with a pivoting spur hammer. TheSwing Hammer® can be locked into a left, center or right position -depending on your preference.

WARNING: BEFORE MAKING ANY CHANGES TO THEENCORE®, MAKE SURE THAT THE FIREARM YOU AREWORKING WITH IS UNLOADED. AN ACCIDENTAL DIS-

CHARGE MAY RESULT IN INJURY AND/OR DEATH TO THESHOOTER OR BYSTANDERS AND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

• The

Encore® Swing Hammer® uses one self-locking screw to hold thespur in the position that you choose. A wrench is provided fromthe factory (FIGURES 33a and 33b).

• If you want to change the position of the hammer spur - and thescope bell interferes - it may be necessary to tip the barrel open togain access to the locking screw.

• Loosen the locking screw by turning it counter-clockwise (asviewed from above) until the screw either comes out completely orit is loose enough to allow easy movement of the hammer spur.After the hammer spur is repositioned, tighten the locking screwsecurely.

The Three Positions That The “Swing Hammer” Can Be Locked Into

Spur Left Spur Center Spur Right

FIGURE 33b

Locking Screw

FIGURE 33a

Use Provided Wrench


29

ENCORE SWING HAMMER® CONTINUED

NOTE: The Swing Hammer® will not tighten down correctly in anyposition other than those shown in FIGURE 33b.

• For the Encore® not equipped with this option, it is available as afactory-installed accessory. Contact us for details. Once installed -the shooter can alter the position of the hammer as directed here.

INSTALLATION OF CHOKETUBES IN ENCORE®

45 COLT/410 BOREWARNING: NEVER ATTEMPT TO INSTALL A CHOKETUBE OR RE MOVE A CHOKE TUBE FROM A LOADEDFIRE ARM. AL WAYS EN SURE THAT THE FIREARM IS

UNLOADED. FAIL URE TO HEED THIS WARN ING COULD RE -SULT IN AN AC CI DEN TAL DIS CHARGE CAUSING IN JU RYAND/OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER OR BYSTANDERS ANDDAMAGE TO PROP ER TY.

• The threads of your T/C® choke tubes should be kept clean andlightly oiled at all times - with a good anti-seize lubricant like T/C’s“Super Lube”. When installing the choke tube into the barrel, makesure the muzzle is pointed away from you in a safe direction, andnever “force” the choke tube into the barrel. If the tube does notscrew-in easily, the threads in the barrel or tube could be clogged,or you could be cross threading the parts. The choke tube shouldscrew-in easily by hand. Use an appropriate wrench and tighten ituntil snug. DO NOT OVER-TIGHTEN it as it could damage thetube.

• The wrench willengage the slots inthe choke tube. Toinstall the choke tube,turn it in clockwise. To remove it, turn itcounter-clockwise(FIGURE 34).

WARNING: NEVER ATTEMPT TO USE ANY OTHERBRAND CHOKE TUBE IN A THOMPSON/CENTERENCORE. MISMATCHING CHOKE TUBES IN ANY

FIREARM COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE FIREARM, ORSERIOUS INJURY AND/OR DEATH TO THE SHOOTER ORBYSTANDERS AND DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.

Choke Wrench Diagram

FIGURE 34


30

ENCORE® PISTOL CHOKE TUBES CONTINUED

Note Regarding 45 Colt/.410 Bore shotshell ammunition:

Internal choke pistol models are offered in 45 Colt/.410 boreallowing the use of standard 3" .410 bore shotshells. IN ALLINSTANCES, THE CHOKE TUBE MUST BE REMOVED BEFORESTANDARD BALL AMMUNITION, RIFLED SLUGS OR BUCK-SHOT OF THE APPROPRIATE CALIBER IS TO BE USED.

After heavy use of shot cartridges, clean the barrel and choketube with a tight fitting stiff bore brush to remove any accumula-tion of lead.

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTYThis warranty is granted by Smith & Wesson Corp. doing businessas Thompson/Center Arms. This warranty is effective from the dateof purchase for the lifetime of the original retail purchaser of any fac-tory finished firearm. In order to be eligible for service under this war-ranty, the original retail purchaser must return a completed autho-rized warranty card or register online at http://www.tcarms.com/war-ranty-details/registration within thirty (30) days of purchase of suchfirearm. With respect to such firearm, this warranty supersedes anyand all other warranties.

Thompson/Center Arms brand firearms are warranted to be free fromdefects in material and workmanship. Any such defects of whichSmith & Wesson receives written notice by the original retail pur-chaser will be remedied without charge within a reasonable timeafter such notification and delivery of the firearm as provided below.

Warranty claims (in writing) and the firearm or part thereof concernedshould be delivered, postage prepaid, to the factory at Smith &Wesson, 2100 Roosevelt Ave., Springfield, MA 01104, Attn: ServiceDepartment. In addition, a copy of the bill of sale in the original retailpurchaser’s name, or, where applicable, a copy of ATF Form 4473indicating date of purchase must be included. Please include yourphysical address and phone number. You must comply with allapplicable federal, state and local laws and regulations in the ship-ment of firearms to Smith & Wesson.

NOTE: See the Contact & Shipping section of this manual for further details regarding returns.


31

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY CONTINUED

Warranty claims should state the model and, where applicable, theserial number of the firearm concerned and the description of thedifficulty experienced. It is recommended that shipments be insuredby the owner, since Smith & Wesson will accept no responsibility forloss or damage in transit. Transportation and insurance charges forreturn to the owner will be paid by Smith & Wesson if the claim iscovered by this warranty.

If the work required is not covered by our “Limited LifetimeWarranty” you will receive a quotation which must be authorized byyou. No actual work will be done without your approval. Return ship-ments can be shipped via UPS, FedEx or mail at your cost. Repairedproduct will be shipped back to you via FedEx requiring an adult sig-nature upon receipt.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL SMITH & WESSON BERESPONSIBLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGESWITH RESPECT TO ECONOMIC LOSS, INJURY, DEATH OR PROP-ERTY DAMAGE, WHETHER AS A RESULT OF BREACH OF THISWARRANTY, NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental orconsequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion maynot apply to you.

Smith & Wesson will not be responsible for:

• Defects or malfunctions resulting from careless handling, unautho-rized adjustments or modifications made or attempted by anyoneother than a qualified gunsmith following authorized procedures, orfailure to follow the instructions in Safety & Instruction manual thatwas provided with the firearm from the factory.

• Use of defective or improper ammunition and/or propellant, corro-sion, neglect, abuse, ordinary wear and tear, or unreasonable use.

• Use of replacement parts, including but not limited to barrels andsprings, other than factory or authorized parts.

• Criminal misuse, negligence, or use under the influence of drugs oralcohol.

Services that were performed by the Thompson/Center ArmsCustom Shop and/or that are performed by the Smith & WessonRepair Department do not void this warranty. This warranty gives youspecific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which varyfrom state to state.

NOTE: All liability is excluded in the event that the instructions pro-vided in the Safety and Instruction manual that was provided withthe firearm from the factory are not observed.


32

CONTACT AND SHIPPINGINFORMATION

NOTE: A Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) is the first step inthe process of returning a product in order to receive a repair,replacement or refund.

Please contact Thompson/Center’s Customer Service Dept. (e-mail: [email protected] or by phone at 1-866-730-1614 to obtain authorization to return your firearm so wecan process it quickly and efficiently. The RMA number that is sup-plied by Thompson/Center Arms must be displayed on the outsideof the returned product's packaging; returns without an RMA num-ber will be routed differently which will result in delayed processing.

The issuance of an Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) allowsThompson/Center Arms an opportunity to try to diagnose and cor-rect a customer's concerns with the product (such as ammunitionproblems) before it is returned. Accordingly, please contact us beforereturning your Thompson/Center firearm.

Shipping Address: Thompson/Center Arms 2100 Roosevelt Avenue Springfield, MA 01104

• Should your Thompson/Center firearm require service, it should bereturned to the Thompson/Center factory.

• Call or e-mail the Customer Service Dept. for authorization andshipping instructions.

• Ensure that the magazine and chamber are unloaded.

• Do not attempt to ship a firearm via US Postal Service; only feder-ally licensed dealers may ship a firearm by US Postal Service.

• DO NOT SHIP ANY AMMUNITION.

• Enclose a letter which includes your full name and address(no P.O. Boxes, please), daytime telephone number, e-mail

address, the serial number of the firearm, and details of the prob-lem experienced (stating the brand and type of ammunition usedwhen the problem occurred) or work desired.

• Record the serial number before shipping, in case you wish tocheck on the repair status of your firearm.

• Please remove all custom parts and accessories, such as stocks,special sights and scopes, or slings from your firearm beforereturning.

• Place the firearm in its original case or in a similarly secure con-tainer and pack it securely.


33

CONTACT AND SHIPPING CONTINUED

• The package must NOT bear any markings which indicate theidentity of the contents.

• It is most important that you comply with federal, state, and locallaws and regulations. The following guidelines are meant to help,but you must seek assistance from the appropriate authorities ifnecessary.

• If your firearm must be replaced, it may be necessary to ship thereplacement to a dealer rather than directly to you. You may berequested to furnish a signed FFL (Federal Firearms License) fromyour dealer in such an instance.

• Warranty repair work will begin upon receipt and examination ofthe firearm. In the case of repairs or work not covered by the war-ranty, a quotation covering the cost of the work plus shippingcharges will be sent to you. Repairs or modification will be sched-uled upon receipt of payment.

WARNING: YOU MAY PURCHASE ACCESSORIES FORYOUR THOMPSON/CENTER FIREARM. YOU MUST HAVESOME OF THESE PARTS INSTALLED BY A GUNSMITH

QUALIFIED TO PERFORM SERVICE ON THOMPSON/CENTERFIREARMS. NEVER ATTEMPT TO MODIFY YOUR FIREARM ORINSTALL REPLACEMENT PARTS IN YOUR FIREARM. ALWAYSUSE A QUALIFIED THOMPSON/CENTER GUNSMITH EVEN IFTHE REPAIR SEEMS SIMPLE.


34

PATENT INFORMATIONThis product may be covered by one or more patents. Visit www.tcarms.com for virtual patent information.

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35

BATTERY WARNINGS WARNING: IF A BATTERY OPERATED ACCESSORY ORATTACHMENT (I.E. LASER, OPTICAL SIGHT OR FLASH-LIGHT, ETC.) IS SUPPLIED OR USED WITH THIS

FIREARM, THE FOLLOWING WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONSMUST BE ADHERED TO.

WARNING: KEEP BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHILDREN.THERE IS A CHEMICAL BURN HAZARD ASSOCIATEDWITH BATTERIES.

WARNING: IF A NEW OR USED LITHIUM BUTTON/COINCELL BATTERY IS SWALLOWED OR ENTERS THE BODY,IT CAN CAUSE SEVERE INTERNAL BURNS AND CAN

LEAD TO DEATH IN AS LITTLE AS 2 HOURS. ALWAYS COM-PLETELY SECURE THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT. IF THE BAT-TERY COMPARTMENT DOES NOT CLOSE SECURELY, STOPUSING THE PRODUCT, REMOVE THE BATTERIES, AND KEEP ITAWAY FROM CHILDREN. IF YOU THINK BATTERIES MIGHTHAVE BEEN SWALLOWED OR PLACED INSIDE ANY PART OFTHE BODY, SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION.

• When used correctly, batteries provide a safe and dependablesource of portable power. However, misuse or abuse may result inleakage, fire, or explosion.

• Batteries can explode or leak and cause burns if installed back-wards, disassembled, charged, or exposed to water, fire or hightemperature.

• Always take care to install your batteries correctly observing the“+” and “-” marks on the battery and the device.

• Always replace the whole set of batteries at one time, taking carenot to mix old and new batteries, or batteries of different types.

• Store unused batteries in their original packaging and away frommetal objects that may short-circuit them.

• Remove discharged batteries from equipment promptly to avoidpossible damage from leakage.

• Never dispose of batteries in fire. (Failure to observe this precau-tion may result in an explosion.)

• The batteries are supplied in a charged state and are not designedfor recharging. Recharging may cause leakage, fire, or explosion.

• The batteries should be disposed of properly, including keepingthem away from children.

• Dispose of used batteries immediately. Even used batteries maycause injury.


36

T/C Mailing Address:

(for questions AND comments)

Thompson/Center Arms


T/C Shipping Address:

(for repairs or warranty work)

Thompson/Center Arms

ATTN: Repair Department


Web Address:

www.tcarms.com

Customer Service Phone:

Toll Free 1-866-730-1614

Customer Service E-mail:

[email protected]

p/n 00084010 REV:ENCOREPISTOL_080118

CONTACT INFO


Documents

Encore Pistol Manual...2 warning read these instructions and warnings carefully. be sure you understand these instructions and warnings before using this firearm. failure to read