Been shooting Contenders for over three decades... and guess what? You don't have to break them open to recock them pard. Simply squeeze the trigger guard back and release while keeping the action closed and you will be able to recock the hammer. A little trial and error will teach you how much to squeeze with your particular frame. Tuned frames (like all of mine) are the easiest to do this with, but it'll work even on one right out of the box.
Who da thunk?
Ladobe