Response:

A.)Should have been done a long time ago, but Contenders are still getting the most of my attention.  Thanks for the nudge though.

Q.) The 7mm Bellm #2 as it compares to the 7-08? 

A.)In a handgun it closes the gap some between 7mm-08 and .280 Rem.  Capacity is just below that of .30/06. But main purpose has been to get rid of the factory throat and cut a new one aligned with the bore.

Q.) Is there any advantage to a rimmed case vs. 08 cases with the Encore? 

A.) Certainly.  The rim is always an asset, if for handling purposes only, it is still better than rimless.

Q.) Are the pressures the same?

A.) Yes.  Same as 7mm-08.

Q.) Velocities with the heavier bullets for hunting? 

A.) No data on hand, but with the added capacity for slower powders, yes it is quite safe to assume it will handle heavier bullets better.

Q.) How does it compare to the Contender 7mm Bellm?

A.) In terms of velocity, no comparison since pressures must be kept lower in the Contender. Neck is longer on the Contender version, thus body is longer on the Encore version.

Q.) Same 444 Marlin case?

A.) Yes

Q.) What would be the best stock barrel for you to rechamber a #2?

A.) 7mm-08.

The Encore  "No.2" versions of both 7mm Bellm and .308 Bellm have not received a lot of attention, and I have only done a few here and there.  But as time goes on, I will be putting up more info on them.  They are excellent rounds, but demand for Contender work far outweighs the demand for Encore work here, and thus I have not done much with the No.2s. 

Note that I did not suggest a .358 Bellm No. 2.  Wonder why?  It already exists as .358 JDJ, or .35x.444 Marlin.

All the best.  

Mike Bellm