You can get a real good deal on a new stock for your Encore-on E-Bay. If you have some patience. I have seen RH Thumbhole's go for $25. There are also some good barrel buy's on there from time to time. This is the right time of the year to get a good deal. Send your rifle off to Bellm or Stratton for a good trigger job. They charge a few dollars more, but they change the springs. Buy one of the Bellm oversized hinge pins also. Good Luck. I am sure you will like your Encore. The ML's can be finicky, but thecenterfire rifleoptions are limitless. Tom.