Well, here is a double edge reply for ya!
I ordered a 223 contender barrel along with a "Utility grade" buttstock and forend from Fred. I ordered the Stock with a longer than standard LOP as I am a tall guy and I got the satin finish as this stock was (and is) used for hunting purposes.
The stock works very well. When I pull it up my eye lines right up with the scope like it's suppose to and I have the longest forarm for stability in varmit shooting.
Now, the accuracy of the barrel is excellent. The barrel is a factory T\C 223 that I bot (on sale) from Midway. The "custom" Fred barrel that was shipped to me didn't lock up. It actually had a horizontal "wiggle" of half-an-inch. I sent it back to Fred, and after two weeks, I sent him my frame. Then after another three weeks, I called. Fred said my frame was junk...then he scratched the hell out of it trying to push it together to make the wiggle go away. Then he and I got in a screaming match.
Fred finally realized his barrel was crap. He refunded my money.
Funny though, my factory barrel locks up tighter than a tick on a dog.
I'm going to order a 243 for an Encore next....ask me if it will be from Fred. Go ahead....ask me.
Dave
