You really did not describe the distance you would like to shoot. And you did not specify if pelt damage is a concern?? Or not?? And do you reload??

For an Encore it would be pretty difficult to beat the 223 Remington cartridge for shots out to 300 yards. Bullet selection is fantastic, so you can go for killing power, or low pelt damage. And factory ammo is probably the best priced of any of the factory cartridges.

Personally before I would pay the price for a Pro Hunter barrel I would look at an MGM barrel, or even a BullBerry or Eabco. Normally they have 223 barrels in stock. And you can get a custom barrel for very little more money. And they do shoot. Tom.