Thompson Center Contender for sale
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Thompson Center G2 CONTENDER PISTOL .22LR 50TH ANNIVERSARY MODEL CASE
Brand:
Thompson/Center Arms
Action:
BREAK ACTION
Barrel Length:
10 BARREL
Caliber:
.22 LR
Capacity:
5
Finish Per Color:
Black
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Thompson Center Rifle Contender G2 30-30 23 Blued Waln 18761243
Brand:
Thompson/Center Arms
Barrel Length:
23"
Caliber:
.30-30 Win
Capacity:
1
Finish Per Color:
Brown, Black
Rounds:
1
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Thompson Center Pistol G2 Contender 22Lr Match Grade 12 05122702
Brand:
Thompson/Center Arms
Barrel Length:
12"
Caliber:
.22 LR
Capacity:
1
Finish Per Color:
Brown, Black
Rounds:
1
Frequently Asked Questions
Thompson Center Contender for sale
Are Thompson Center Contender still made?
Yes, Thompson/Center was revived in April 2024 when Gregg Ritz bought the brand back, and the Encore has returned as the PROHunter. However, the Contender itself is not confirmed to be in current production — it remains popular with collectors, hunters, and shooters. Used examples are available across our marketplace.
Is the Thompson Contender a good gun?
Contender pistols earn strong marks for accuracy and versatility in hunting and target shooting. Interchangeable barrels in dozens of calibers make them highly adaptable. They're not suited for self-defense or carry. For their intended purpose, they're excellent — but match the tool to your use.
What calibers are available for the Thompson Contender?
Thompson/Center chambered the Contender in dozens of calibers through interchangeable barrels, including .22 LR, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .45 Colt/.410, 7-30 Waters, and 6.5 TCU, among others. The G2 model added additional chamberings suited to its updated frame.
What is the value of a Thompson contender?
Used Thompson/Center Contenders average around $671.73 for pistols and $797.15 for rifles, with current listings typically ranging from $749.99 to $949.99. Prices vary by condition, frame generation (original vs. G2), and included barrels.
What makes the Contender unique?
Thompson/Center's Contender uses a break-action, single-shot design with interchangeable barrels, letting shooters switch calibers using the same frame. Available in pistol and rifle configurations across dozens of chamberings, it's valued for accuracy in hunting and target shooting.
Are Encore and Contender barrels interchangeable?
No, Encore and Contender barrels are not interchangeable. The Encore uses a larger 1-inch frame diameter where barrels seat, while Contender and G2 models use a 13/16-inch diameter. Original Contender barrels will fit G2 Contender frames.
What is the difference between a Thompson Center contender G1 and G2?
G1 (original) Contender frames differ from G2 models introduced in 1998. G2 frames have a different grip attachment angle, making grips and stocks incompatible between generations. Barrels interchange between both frames. G2 also features improved locking lugs and slightly revised internal geometry.
When was the Thompson Center Contender made?
Thompson/Center Arms introduced the Contender in 1967. Original production continued through the 1990s. The company later released the Contender G2 in 2002 with design refinements.