I had a similar problem and knew I had a tight spot in the barrel. I sent it back to the factory and they said it didn't. But they must have done something because it was gone when I got it back.

Now one thing about these TC barrels. They like to make them very tight and it can be very difficult to run a bullet or sabot down the tube. I have heard this complaint about them from many guys.

Now as to accuracy, I would pay close attention to the recommended load for the Encore ML'der. If I remember right they call for a 250 saboted SST with 150 grs of powder.

I had the duty one day at my range and watched a guy try to group his Encore and was getting more and more peeved at not having any success. He was shooting only two pellets (100 grs) and I told him to try three pellets (150 grs.) His group tightened up and he told me thanks. I would give it a try and see if that works. Good luck.