Thompson Center Gen 1 Contender W/ .22 Hornet Barrel, Holster, MFD 1979
SOLD FOR: $855
WOA#: WY240313VB005
Make: Thompson Center
Model: Contender G1
Serial Number: 134131
Year of Manufacture: 1979
Caliber: .22 Hornet
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Hammer Fired.
Markings: The barrel is marked, “THOMPSON : CENTER ARMS / ROCHESTER, N.H. 22 HORNET” The frame has an engraved mountain lion on either side. The rear sight is marked, “THOMPSON/CENTER” The back of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The hammer is marked, “C / R”
Barrel Length: 10”
Sights / Optics: This Contender has a squared front sight post set on a serrated ramp. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch leaf.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has a thumb rest single piece grip with finger grooved with a shaped forend. There are some pressure dents and light scratches on the wood. The grip is capped. The grip rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is very bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writes opinion, the bore rates at a 9.5/10
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The action and hammer has wear marks. There are some faint scratches on the barrel and frame. The markings are clear. Overall, this Contender rates in about Excellent 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. This model has what is known as the Easy Open feature.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leather Holster.
Our Assessment: The Thompson Center Contender is a highly versatile single-shot, break-action pistol or rifle platform manufactured by Thompson Center Arms. Introduced in 1967, the Contender quickly gained popularity among handgun hunters, target shooters, and enthusiasts due to its accuracy, interchangeable barrels, and customizable features. One of the key features of the Contender is its interchangeable barrel system, which allows shooters to easily swap barrels of different calibers and lengths to suit their specific shooting needs. This modular design enables the Contender to be configured as a pistol or rifle, chambered in a wide range of calibers from rimfire to magnum cartridges. Over the years, Thompson Center has offered a variety of barrel lengths, ranging from short pistol barrels to longer rifle barrels, catering to different shooting disciplines and preferences. The Contender’s accuracy and versatility have made it a popular choice for hunting, target shooting, and even silhouette competitions.
This Gen 1 Contender in .22 Hornet is in great condition and has the late generation selectable hammer. There is only superficial wear to the finish and the parts seem to be in good working order. Please see the photos for more information, and good luck on your bid! -R.E.
