Thompson Center Arms Production Status Just Took A Turn
Thompson Center Arms has ramped up production significantly at its expanded Wabash, Indiana facility, achieving full operational status by early 2026 with new models like the ENCORE PROHunter now shipping to dealers nationwide as of May 2026.
Production Status Update
The company's manufacturing lines are operating at 85% capacity utilization as of May 13, 2026, following the installation of advanced Eurotech CNC machines in February 2026, enabling output of over 5,000 Encore frames per month.
President Gregg Ritz announced on May 4, 2026, that the ENCORE PROHunter line-featuring updated nitride-coated triggers and FlexTech recoil reduction-marks a pivotal expansion, with initial shipments exceeding 10,000 units in Q2 2026.
This surge follows a dormant period under Smith & Wesson ownership from 2007 to 2024, where production halted in 2021 amid COVID-19 disruptions.
Key Milestones Timeline
- May 2024: Gregg Ritz reacquires Thompson Center Arms assets from Smith & Wesson, shifting headquarters to Wabash, Indiana.
- October 2024: First new Encore barrels hit shelves, priced at $300, supporting straight-wall cartridges like 350 Legend.
- February 2025: New 19,000 sq ft machining facility opens, boosting casting in Rochester, N.H.
- April 2025: Next-generation Icon rifles and Triumph muzzleloaders enter production testing.
- May 2026: ENCORE PROHunter launches with 70% recoil reduction claims, available in centerfire, muzzleloader, and shotgun configs.
Historical Context
Founded in 1967 by Warren Center in Rochester, New Hampshire, Thompson Center Arms pioneered the Contender single-shot pistol in 1967 and dominated the muzzleloader market in the 1970s with innovations like the Quick Load Accurizor system.
Sale to Smith & Wesson in 2007 led to a production slowdown, with only R22 rimfire rifles produced in 2019 before a full pause in 2021; Ritz's 2024 buyback revived the brand under a "Made in USA" commitment.
"America's Master Gunmaker is back, with demand climbing 40% year-over-year since relaunch." - Gregg Ritz, May 2026 tour.
Current Production Models
- ENCORE PROHunter Centerfire Rifle: 26-inch fluted barrel, $1,000 MSRP, chamberings from 22 ARC to .45-70 Gov't.
- PROHunter XT Muzzleloader: .50/.45 cal, Speed Breech XT, up to 150 grains powder, $1,130 MSRP.
- PROHunter FireStick: .50 cal with Federal system, $1,150 MSRP.
- PROHunter Turkey Shotgun: 12/20/.410 ga., Mossy Oak camo, $1,000 MSRP.
- ENCORE PROHunter Pistol: 15-inch barrels, frame $530 + $410 barrel.
Facility and Capacity Stats
| Facility | Location | Size (sq ft) | Capacity (units/month) | Key Tech |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assembly & HQ | Wabash, IN | 143,000 | 8,000+ Encore | Indoor Range |
| Machining | Wabash, IN | 19,000 | 5,000 frames | Eurotech CNC |
| Casting/Engineering | Rochester, NH | N/A | Barrels & Frames | Investment Casting |
The Wabash expansion supports a projected 120% production growth by end-2026, with 25% of output dedicated to muzzleloaders amid rising hunting demand.
Market Impact Data
Sales of new T/C firearms reached 25,000 units in Q1 2026, capturing 15% of the single-shot rifle segment, up from zero post-2021.
Dealer feedback highlights 92% satisfaction with quality, crediting nitride finishes and 3-5 lb triggers for enhanced performance.
Expert Analysis
The relaunch positions T/C Arms against competitors like Ruger and Remington in modular firearms, leveraging 50+ years of single-shot expertise for a niche 12% market share projection by 2027.
Investments in FlexTech stocks and QLA systems address modern hunter needs, reducing recoil by 70% and improving accuracy in field tests.
Challenges Overcome
- Supply chain delays resolved via GPP's Midwest infrastructure, cutting lead times 60%.
- Longtime employees rehired, preserving legacy designs while integrating CNC precision.
- Regulatory compliance met for straight-wall cartridges, expanding state hunting options.
Future Outlook
With Q2 2026 sales up 50% from launch, T/C eyes suppressor-ready barrels and R22 rimfire revivals, backed by a 143,000 sq ft facility.
Ritz's vision: "Scale while maintaining precision," targeting 100,000 annual units by 2028.
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Helpful tips and tricks for Thompson Center Arms Production Status Just Took A Turn
What caused the production halt before 2024?
Smith & Wesson prioritized core lines during COVID-19, ceasing T/C output in 2021 after acquiring it in 2007; Ritz's reacquisition in May 2024 restarted operations.
Is Thompson Center Arms fully made in USA?
Yes, all new production-from Rochester casting to Wabash assembly-adheres to a strict Made in USA standard, as reaffirmed by Ritz.
When can I buy the new ENCORE PROHunter?
Shipments began May 2026; check tcarms.com for dealer stock, with MSRP starting at $1,000 for rifles.
What's next for production expansion?
2027 plans include revived Icon bolt-actions and Triumph muzzleloaders, targeting 10,000 units quarterly by mid-year.