Thompson Center Gen 1 Contender W/ .22 LR Match Barrel, MFD 1985
SOLD FOR: $810
WOA#: WY240313VB004
Make: Thompson Center
Model: Contender G1
Serial Number: 268542
Year of Manufacture: 1985
Caliber: .22 LR
Action Type: Break Action, Single Shot, Hammer Fired.
Markings: The barrel is marked, “THOMPSON / CENTER ARMS SPRINGFIELD MA, U.S.A. / CONTENDER – 22 L.R. Match” 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: 12”
Sights / Optics: This Contender has a 1913 picatinny rail mounted to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This pistol has a two piece Pachmayr checkered rubber set with medallions. The texturing is well defined and there are only light wear marks. The stocks rate in at a Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is mirror 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 have wear marks. There is some faint thinning 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: Sight Rail, Soft Case.
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 LR 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.