Thompson Center Contender 12.5” .45-70 Ported Single Shot Pistol, MFD 1992
SOLD FOR: $1,500.00
LSB#: WY250210SM168
Make: Thompson Center
Model: Contender
Serial Number: 401033
Year of Manufacture: 1992
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Hammer Fired Pistol.
Markings: The sides of the frame are marked with the Thompson Center Mountain Lion logo. The back of the frame is marked with the serial number, “401033”.
Barrel Length: 12.5” Magna-Ported
Sights / Optics: There is a Picatinny scope base mounted to the barrel with a Micro-Trac pistol scope attached to it. The scope is in Excellent condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This contender has a two piece checkered rubber Pachmayer set with a Schnabel forend and a finger groove pistol grip. There are light handling marks throughout. The checkering is sharp. There are no rips or chunks missing. Overall the stock set rates in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: E-Chrome
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is some light stubborn fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are hairline scratches throughout. There are some rub marks on the barrel and frame. The markings are clear. The screw heads are mostly sharp. 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: Hard case, clamp on bipod, 10” .357 Magnum barrel in Very Good condition, 10” .41 Magnum barrel in Very Good condition, 14” .17 Rem. barrel with a Micro Trac scope in Very Good condition.
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.
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.
