I had a Ruger No.1 in 25-06.
It was a 26" bbl. & would really put them where you want them.
I was interested in the Encore for it's versatility factor. Different game...use another barrel.
Was just interested to know how you liked them, & how many DO change barrels & keep hunting.
My go-to calling rifle is an AR, but, I've never felt undergunned by using a single shot.
The Handi Rifles are a great concept, but they are just too crude for me. I like a more refined rifle. (No offense intended, just personal choice.)
It may be that the trend has been that more hunters in the East use them. I know the Savage 99 was much the same way. If you were a deer hunter in the Eastern US, you probably had a Savage 99 in 300 Savage....but that was years ago.
With the use of airplanes & driving to hunt out West, I think the gun choices might not be so regional nowadays.