uckayak2_mn

Welcome to the forum. As for your question when you ask what is better, a Thompson Center Pro Hunter or the Knight Long Range Hunter, that's like asking if you like a Chevrolet or a Ford for driving better. Both of them riflesare going to be good shooters. Both of them have a great customer service reputation. As for the .52 caliber, I think it is a gimmick and would forget that idea. Stick with the .50 caliber where there is a large range of bullet selections. The .52 caliber will give you no better advantage. Also, Knight is making a move from Iowa to Alabama. It sounds like some restructuring in the company, but whether that will effect them in years to come is anyone's guess right now. I just get cautious when I see an established company suddenly pick up and move. Thompson Center has only expanded building after building where they are at. Also they seem to be the dominate company in the muzzle loader market right now. Something to keep in mind.

You're aware that the Knight requires a special disc you insert the primer into and then load that into the rifle. Some people like that some hate it. I personally for hunting like it. For target shooting I hate it, and it is another cost. The Pro Hunter requires no disc, but it might take a tool to load and remove the spent primer. Perhaps an Encore owner can elaborate here. The Encore/Pro Hunter is one of the most popular rifles on the market right now.

I would suggest you try and handle the two rifles. See which one fits you best. See which one meets your expectations. You already mentioned you like the idea of changing barrels with the Thompson Center. That would be a large + in that list of "I like this." It's apparent cost is not the factor simply by your choice of weapons. Personally I guess I would go with the Pro Hunter, but then that is my opinion. Good luck in making up your mind.

And again, welcome and it will be good to hear what you decide....