Thompson Center Contender W/ 15” Custom Bullberry Barrel, MFD 1975
SOLD FOR: $1,151.00
WOA#: WY240411RW029
Make: Thompson Center
Model: Contender
Serial Number: 415376
Year of Manufacture: Jul 1975
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Hammer Fired.
Markings: Left side of barrel is marked, “Burberry-Utah / 22 LR Match” The right side is marked, “1995 Schuetzenfest” The sides of the receiver has mountain lion engravings. The serial is on the frame under the hammer.
Barrel Length: 15” Bull
Sights / Optics: There is a Tasco 24x target scope fixed to the top of the barrel via a weaver rail.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This Contender has a two piece walnut set with a rubber back strap, square rest, full length forend. There is minor handling wear throughout. There is a scuff on the right side of the grip, and several more scuffs throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The grip set rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writes opinion, the bores all rate at a 9/10
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. There is wear and drag lines from use. There are faint scratches throughout. Overall, this Contender rates in at about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Scope.
Our Assessment: The Thompson Center Contender is a highly versatile and renowned single-shot firearm known for its unique design and modularity. Introduced in 1967 by Thompson/Center Arms, the Contender has become a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and firearms enthusiasts for its ability to quickly and easily switch barrels, calibers, and even grip styles. One of the defining features of the Contender is its interchangeable barrel system. Users can switch between a wide variety of barrels with different calibers, lengths, and profiles without the need for specialized tools. This versatility allows the Contender to be configured as a handgun or a rifle, depending on the user’s preference and the specific application. The ease of barrel changes is facilitated by a simple hinge pin mechanism that connects the barrel to the receiver. The Contender is available in a wide range of calibers, from small rimfire rounds like .22 LR to powerful centerfire cartridges like .45-70 Government. This adaptability makes it suitable for different types of shooting, including small game hunting, big game hunting, and target shooting. The ability to change calibers and barrels also allows shooters to use the same platform for various hunting and shooting activities without needing multiple firearms. This particular barrel was awarded at the 1995 International Schuetzenfest
Overall, the Thompson Center Contender stands out as a unique and highly adaptable firearm. Its modular design, ease of barrel changes, and wide range of caliber options make it a practical choice for a variety of shooting disciplines. The Contender’s enduring popularity is a testament to its innovative design and the value it provides to shooters who demand versatility and precision in their firearms. -R.E.
