It depends.

[Dalton]

The easy answer to the first question is that the Encore is physically larger and capable of handling higher pressures and thus more powerful rounds.

As to which is better, it depends.  Each has it's advantages and disadvantages.  My advice is go to a gunshop and handle them both.  See what feels better to you.

[Buford]

Think of them as small and big block Chevys - you can hotrod the small block, but you are pushing the limits - the Encore, the big block of the two, will handle most anything without straining....it is, however, heavier. They both are quality products.

[KYODE]

i have one of each. i can't say a bad thing about either one. the encore doesn't feel that much heavier when i hold both at the same time. i wish they kept makin the contender and i'm glad they brought out the encore. now where is that G2? i want one of those too. i'm a sick man :roll: . only cure is more, more, more. but that takes money which is hard to come by. :-)

[PJ]

I have both if I had to take just one.....I would.....just put the Contender in my left hand and the Encore in my right hand.
Hope this helps...he....he...he.

[Gregory]

I have one Encore and two Contenders, but that doesn't mean I like the Ccontender 2:1 over the Encore.

Advantages of the Encore: you can get barrels for hi intensity cartridges like the 7-08 and 30/06 but it is heavier and it needs a trigger job.

The Contender has a superb adjustable trigger out of the box and it's lighter.

I'd make my choice based on the cartridge I want to shoot and if the Contender will handle it I'd pick it first.

Greg