Thompson Center Arms Llc 6021R Encore Turkey 20 Gauge 3″ 24″
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.7 lbs — 2.1 lbs lighter than Stevens 555 O/U platforms
- 24-inch barrel provides 40.5-inch overall length for tight blind clearance
- Fiber optic sight acquires targets 0.3 seconds faster than brass beads in dawn light
Trade-offs
- Fixed full choke prohibits steel shot — limits waterfowl use
- No sling swivels pre-installed — adds $35-50 and gunsmith time
- Single-shot design requires 4-second reload versus semi-autos
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Thompson Center Arms LLC 6021R Encore Turkey 20 Gauge 3" 24" is a single-shot break-action shotgun purpose-built for turkey hunting in dense cover where maneuverability matters. This 20-gauge platform offers reduced recoil compared to 12-gauge options while maintaining ethical takedown power at typical ranges, and its 26-inch total length balances compact handling with sight radius for precise shot placement.
What is the Thompson Center Arms LLC 6021R Encore Turkey 20 Gauge used for?
It's engineered exclusively for turkey hunting in thick brush and timber where quick shots at 30 yards or less are common. The 20-gauge chambering reduces recoil by approximately 40% compared to 12-gauge loads while still delivering lethal patterns with modern TSS shot, and the fiber optic front sight acquistion system aligns faster than bead sights in low-light conditions typical of spring seasons.
How does the Thompson Center Arms LLC 6021R Encore Turkey compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Encore Turkey's break-action design is 2.1 pounds lighter than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U's 7.8-pound weight, making it superior for still-hunting in steep terrain. However, the Stevens (view specs) offers two-shot capacity without reloading, which better suits hunters facing multiple birds or follow-up scenarios where seconds count.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 5.7 pounds with a 24-inch barrel contributing to an overall length of 40.5 inches. The receiver width measures 1.25 inches at its thickest point for easy portability in blinds, and the length of pull is 14 inches to accommodate most shooters wearing thick hunting jackets without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
Waterfowl hunters needing rapid follow-up shots should avoid this single-shot platform. The break-action requires 3-4 seconds to eject, reload, and close compared to semi-autos like the Benelli M2, and its fixed full choke won't handle steel shot safely for duck hunting applications where non-toxic loads are mandated.
What's in the box?
You receive the barreled action assembly, one Pro Hunter pistol grip stock, and a Weaver-style base pre-installed for optics mounting. Notably absent are choke tubes (this barrel is fixed full choke) and sling swivels, which add $35-50 for aftermarket installation if needed for extended carries.
Is the Thompson Center Arms LLC 6021R Encore Turkey worth it at $933.99?
Yes, for dedicated turkey hunters prioritizing weight savings over capacity. The investment buys a specialized tool that outperforms cheaper pump-actions in recoil management and pointability, but budget-conscious hunters might prefer the Stevens 334 rifle platform adapted for slugs if they also pursue deer in the same season.
Key attributes
| upc | 810180301176 |
| manufacturer | Thompson/Center |
| manufacturer part number | 6021R |
| action | Single Shot |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 1 |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with other Encore barrels?
- Yes, it accepts any Encore-series pistol or rifle barrel with a 1-inch journal diameter. Standard barrel swaps take under 2 minutes with a T15 torx key, but confirm headspace with gauges when switching between rimfire and centerfire configurations per TC's manual.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- Only if the case interior exceeds 41 inches in length. Most universal 42-inch cases will accommodate it with 0.5 inches clearance, but dedicated break-action cases from Allen Company (model AB42) provide better protection for the exposed hinge mechanism during transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- FFL transfers typically process within 3-5 business days after verification. Ironclad Armory uses UPS Ground for most shipments, which adds 2-6 days transit time depending on your proximity to their Bozeman, MT distribution center.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL due to federal regulations. Ironclad Armory allows exchanges within 14 days for identical models if the firearm is unfired and packaging is intact, but you'll incur a $45 restocking fee and secondary transfer costs.