I'm thinking about getting back into single shot pistols, and since I'm a 35 nut, these chamberings have gathered my attention. I've played with enough wildcats to have well and goodly scratched that itch, so instead of the contender platform, I want to try the encore.

My guess is the 358 win can push 200 gr @ 2400 fps, and 225 gr @ 2200 fps from a 15" tube, and a 350 should be good for another 100 fps or so. Are those realistic velocities?

Not at all Paul. I was getting 2250 using 225 Nosler BTs and that was a 14" contender barrel with a factory brake chambered in 358JDJ. I figure the brake took up 1 1/2" of barrel so this is really just 12.5".
If I do a 35cal for my encore it's gonna be a 35Whelen. I like all the rounds based on the 06 case for the encore.

It just seems to me that the .308 case is a better match capacity wise to 15" tubes then the -06. Also while rifle recoil doesn't seem to phase me much, I don't much care for pistols that bite (my 480 is my limit, and if I don't practice with it enough, a bit too much). So, 358 seems like a better choice, and maybe I'll just start off with a .308 winny.

Why not do the 356 Winchester so you get the rim?

I first have to say I have limited caliber experience. I have only used 35 Rem and the 358 win. I have used from 150 to 225 gr. bullets and have found that the 180 ssp very affective in the 358 on moose, elk, deer and antelope. The groups at the practice range are very good and FPS is 2450 with 48 gr. h322 and bullet seating depth 2.7. I sight 2 inches high at 100 yards and that makes me 2 inches low at 200 yards. Only one animal has required more than one shot and that was my fault not the gun or load. My longest kill was 238 yards on a 4x4 muledeer. Olefish

Well I have that same itch Paul but it will be scratched via a Striker that is at the gunsmiths right now waiting for a new tube. I have a 1-14 twist specified for my soon to be 358 Win Savage Boltgun. I am giving up the magazine capacity of a repeating 22-250 for the pure power of a good size 35. Although my handle implies 45 caliber is my only passion the 375,30 and 35 also get good representation in my abode. I am going with the 1-14 for heavy boolit use. I have a 200gr DC custom here and may have MM cut my a 225 as well. I hope I can get this before too long....