Thompson Center

Thompson Center Muzzleloaders: Encore and Impact Lineup

Thompson Center's muzzleloaders are widely regarded as the most accurate and reliable inline muzzleloaders available. The Encore 209x50 and Impact series use a 209 shotgun primer ignition system for consistent ignition in any weather — a significant reliability advantage over traditional percussion caps in cold or wet conditions. TC muzzleloaders are a top choice for hunters in states with muzzleloader-only seasons, offering the ability to use modern propellants like Blackhorn 209 and high-BC saboted bullets for accuracy rivaling centerfire rifles at moderate ranges. The Impact is the entry-level inline — reliable, accurate, and priced for hunters who want TC quality without the Encore's premium. The Encore is the premium platform, with an interchangeable barrel system that also accepts centerfire and rimfire rifle and pistol barrels.

Thompson Center Contender & Encore: The Modular Single-Shot Platform

The Contender and Encore are interchangeable-barrel single-shot platforms that defined their category. A single frame accepts dozens of barrel options in calibers from .22 LR to .45-70 — as pistols or rifles — by simply swapping the barrel. This modularity makes them uniquely cost-effective for handgun hunters and silhouette shooters who want multiple caliber options without owning multiple firearms. The Contender uses a break-open action with a hammer block safety; the Encore is a larger-frame version for magnum rifle calibers. Both accept TC's extensive barrel library, and a strong aftermarket exists for custom barrels in specialized calibers. For handgun hunters pursuing deer, elk, or long-range silhouette — the TC Contender in .30-30, .44 Magnum, or .308 is a proven and versatile platform.

TC ICON Bolt-Action: Thompson Center's Precision Hunting Rifle

The TC ICON is Thompson Center's bolt-action hunting rifle, designed to compete directly with the Tikka T3x and Savage 110 in the serious hunter segment. It features a match-grade barrel, a fully adjustable trigger with a crisp factory break, a sporter-weight profile optimized for carry, and a detachable magazine with a flush fit. Available in popular hunting calibers including .308 Win, .30-06, and 6.5 Creedmoor, the ICON delivers sub-MOA accuracy out of the box at a competitive price point. For TC loyalists who want a bolt-action to complement their Encore or muzzleloader collection, the ICON provides the same brand philosophy: American-made quality with an emphasis on accuracy from the box.

Muzzleloader Propellants and Pellets: What TC Recommends

Thompson Center muzzleloaders are optimized for 209-primer ignition systems and are compatible with several propellant options. Blackhorn 209 is the highest-performance modern propellant — consistent across temperature extremes and significantly easier to clean than traditional black powder substitutes. Pyrodex and Triple Seven are the most widely available substitutes and perform well in TC platforms. TC recommends their own Shockwave saboted bullets for the best accuracy in their barrels — the bullet-sabot combination is engineered to the specific bore dimensions of TC barrels, delivering consistent engagement and minimal fouling. For hunters who want maximum performance from their TC muzzleloader, the Blackhorn 209 plus TC Shockwave combination is the benchmark setup.

Thompson Center Muzzleloader Seasons and Hunting Applications

Most states offer dedicated muzzleloader-only deer seasons that typically fall between archery and general firearm seasons — providing additional hunting opportunity for those who invest in a quality inline. Thompson Center muzzleloaders are legal in all muzzleloader seasons in all states. Their accuracy and reliability make them the choice of serious muzzleloader hunters who want to maximize their chances in the field. With Blackhorn 209 and quality saboted bullets, a TC muzzleloader is accurate to 150 yards and beyond — performance that rivals many centerfire rifles at reasonable distances. See our black powder rifles page for the full muzzleloader selection.

TC Accessories: Bullets, Cleaning Kits & Breech Plugs

Thompson Center produces a full line of muzzleloader accessories including Bore Driver saboted bullets, cleaning kits, breech plugs, and 209 primer adapters. Proper cleaning after every muzzleloader session is essential for reliability — fouling from black powder substitutes accelerates corrosion in the barrel and breech plug. TC's dedicated cleaning products are formulated for their specific barrel coatings and breech plug geometry. For hunters who use their TC muzzleloader only during the season, a thorough post-season cleaning and light oil coat protects the barrel through the offseason.

Shop Thompson Center at Impact Guns

Browse the full Thompson Center lineup at Impact Guns. For other muzzleloaders, see our black powder rifles page. For hunting bolt-actions in the same class as the TC ICON, see our Tikka T3x and Savage 110 pages. For hunting rifles broadly, see our hunting rifles page.