new G2 contender or old contender

comancheblack2

New member
I was thinking of buying the frame of an older model contender. I see a ton of extras that can go with it. But, I wonder if it would be better to go with a new G2 model. Is anything being made now that will fit the older model? or will the accesories dry up. I personally like the older contender. Looking for any personal experience with either or both. Thanks
 
Functionally they are the same, all contender barrels should work on either a new G2 contender or the original contender. There have been a few issues with some aftermarket barrels though, and I am sure someone will come along and clarify the compatibility issues with them. i can't even remember the manufacturer or the problem....

The older ones had nicer triggers, with less takeup and a crisper release. The new ones are still good but not quite as nice as the originals.

Don't forget to consider the encore, it can handle higher pressure rounds and there are TONS of options out there for them too.
 
the older barrels (g1) frames will work on the g2 ones ,but the new frames and barrles, g3 encore (hunter pro ) will not work on g1 or g2. the main thing on the newer g3 barrles are that they are fulted, and they make black powder magnum barrles, the old ones cant take the max loads. some of the older barrles are not made now.
 
I wonder if it would be better to go with a new G2 model.

It has it's advantages, as does the original. The G2 can be decocked and recocked without having to reset the trigger spur. The original has a better trigger, and just plain looks nicer. There are lots of parts for both out there. Barrels are not a problem. I wouldn't mind having a G2 but I own the original and am happy. I'd take either over an Encore, which is oversized IMO.
 
I have owned both and there are trade-offs. I guess I would have to ask what you are going to use it for? Generally, I would tend to go for the G2 on more powerful calibers. Personally, I like the Contenders becuase of the triggers as noted by mikejonestkd.
If you are going to stay with smaller calilbers, the Contender is the best choice. The G2's are more stronger but again, there are trade-offs. Last year, I saw a Contender Carbine in a 21" .22 blue barrel and tiger striped walnut. It was a real beauty and hard to beat. ... :)



Be Safe !!!
 
For most stuff I would go with the original in an easy open frame. The trigger is just sweet and I've never missed the recock feature you get on the G2. However I have been concidering getting a G2 just for my 358 Super Bower to give me just a bit more edge on the pressure.
 
My uses for it would be for plinking and for varmits. If I could get a stock for an original contender I'd go with the longest.223 barrel I could find with a nice scope and get after the critters that hang around the farm. I have a .357 so I'd probably get a .357 barrel also. I guess I just discribed a NEF handi rifle.
My Dad had one (contender) back in the 70's but I can't remember in what caliber. I kinda like the older contenders I just want to make sure I can still find equipment for it. Thanks for your input.
 
It's really a toss-up but I think I am leaning, ever so slightly, towards the Contender.
I just want to make sure I can still find equipment for it. Thanks for your input.
I personally do not think this will be a problem, in our future ..... ;)


Be Safe !!!
 
I've had several of the original models. The recocking was never an issue. Besides the better trigger they were easy to work on.
Dallas Jack
 
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