Descisions, descisions, Which contender to get ???

[Kmrere42]

Hi,


Been thinking of a contender and have questions of which to get.


It seems that most of the calibers that would want are in the G-2 model.  The few that are in the higher pressure range are only in the Encore with very little overlap of calibers.

If in keeping with reasonable loads, what should be my expectation of accuracy over time.  Could I effectively use one for slow-fire matches at 300yds??  I.E. 20rds in 20min X3 for 60 rounds.  300 savage 155gr HPBT @ 2500fps in a G2, or the same @ 2850 fps with a 308win in the Encore.

Are the same problems in the Handi-rifle with barrel fit and play also in the contender series??




Paul





 

[Grumulkin]

1.  For Encore and Contender rifles, accuracy would be expected to be 0.75 MOA or less depending on the cartridge and barrel for 3 shot groups.

2.  There is no reason you couldn't reload and shoot an Encore or Contender 20 times in 20 minutes.

3.  I have no experience with the Handi Rifle but the vast majority of the probably 30+ Encore and Contender barrels have fit well and have been trouble free.  Out of the box, the older style Contender has a better trigger than an Encore or G2 Contender though.

Cartridge options in the Encore are much more numerous than in the Contender so if it was to be one or the other, I would choose the Encore.

[kynardsj]

+1 on the Encore. More caliber choices.

[I make oil]

I own contenders.  I have looked into Encores and won't say I will never own one but they are much heavier and bulkier to me.  I enjoy the way the Contenders look and feel.  Yes, I am limited on the calibers I can shoot but there is a round for the Contender that will do whatever you want.  About the Handi's I own several handi's and there really is no comparison between the two for fit and finish.  The TC's are so much better it is like a Yugo and a Cadillac.  Also, to have additional barrels fit to a handi the receiver must be sent off.  TC's just drop in that says it all to me.  About reloading.  I can shoot and reload as fast as most people with a bolt action. I keep handi's around because I don't mind loaning them to people who might need a gun and they are tough as hammers.  They are perfect for what they were designed to be.  Handi, cheap guns.

[Kmrere42]

Hi,


Thank you for the replies.

Perhaps I mis-asked the loading question.  I am concerned about shooting 1500+ rounds in a 6 month season.  If the rifle can keep up 1moa for a couple years I would not mind buying a new barrel every 3 years.  I wouldn't want to try a rapid fire stage without an ejector though.

Where do the barrels lockup in the frame.  Are they accessible or even replaceable??

Also would the 300 savage ctg be appropriate for the G2.

Paul

[Win 1917]

If I remember right I think there is some type of spring eject system that can used on Contender barrels. I've never seen one and don't remember what they're called but that would save you the step of manually pulling out the case.

The locking lugs (not sure the correct name) are easily accessible and replaceable. They stick out of the back of the barrel lug just below the breach. A roll pin holds them in place.

As for the 300 Savage, MGM lists it as suitable for the Contender and they tend to be conservative so looks like you're ok with that.

[Kmrere42]

Hi,


Lugs do wear out although it might take a while.  Do the frames have replaceable wear plates in the frame or do the lugs bear directly against the frame?? My question is kind of towards longevity of the frame.  I understand that to high pressures will damage frames by overstretching the frame beyond it ability to return to shape. 




Paul