G2 or Encore for 1st handgun?

[northkid]

Newbie here so Howdy folks, I am looking for my 1st TC so what should I get a G2 or Encore. I would like to be able to shoot .357 mag, 44 mag, 45 long colt, .223, 30/30. Form the looks of it I will end up with a few from reading the posts.

This forum has a lot of great info on here.

Thanks

[KYODE]

G2....it is smaller, lighter, and those cartridges mentioned fit it perfectly.

[stubshaft]

Ditto what Kyode said.  Why deal with th extra weight when you don't need it?  Plus there are more used barrels for the tender than the encore.

[Grumulkin]

During the last few months, my experience is that there have been more good used Encore than Contender barrels.  Sure, there are a lot of Contender barrels for sale but most of them are pretty old, overpriced and/or in pretty questionable condition.

That said, for the cartridges you mention, I'd probably go with the Contender.

[doc-and]

For your intended cartridges, the G2 would be my first choice! There are lots of barrels out there, the only problem one mentioned would be finding a 357Mag, a lot have be rechambered to 357Max, and the 45Colt. I would not invest in a combo barrel ie. 45/410 as accuracy just would not be there, unless you were planning on just using 410shotshells.

docand

[irold]

Everyone has some good points.   The extra weight of the Encore does factor in while carrying during the hunting season.....however, it also helps reduce felt recoil some of the hardhitting loads too.  I presently have one each....from personal experience , my Encore is more pleasant to shoot "HEAVY" 44 mag loads than my Contender was.  The Encore is SS with a 12" non ported barrel.....The Contender was a 12" with a factory brake ( sold it ) Presently , I only have one barrel for the tender , a 22lr, 14", good for tree critters in the fall........hands down , the Encore was a lot easier on my hands.  Also at a later date , you can add anything to your collection........454 ,460  , 500  or many of the rifle barrels.  .308 or .22-250 come to mind ,  my sons .308 was very accurate , shooting sub inch grps at 100 yds.  ( if he did his part )  Bottom line.......my vote goes to the Encore....regards...irold

[Hopalong7]

    I have both....rarely use the Encore for "pistol shooting".  Love it as a rifle, muzzle loader, and shotgun and will admit it is nice to tame recoil on the bench, but I hunt primarily with a pistol...the Contender.  GOOD SHOOTIN', Walt 

[northkid]

I thank all of you folks for your help and suggestions. I will start with the G2 in 44 mag off to the classifieds I go.

Thanks
northkid