Author Topic: Frame Size  (Read 590 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline singleVI

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Avid Poster
  • **
  • Posts: 241
  • Gender: Male
Frame Size
« on: November 19, 2006, 02:43:24 PM »
What are the main differences between the Encore and Contender pistol frames? Such as size, calibers, weight, ability to accept aftermarket grips, things of that sort...

Offline jpsmith1

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Contributor
  • ***
  • Posts: 342
Re: Frame Size
« Reply #1 on: November 20, 2006, 12:00:49 PM »
nothing and everything...

At a short distance, cosmetically, there is little difference.  They look pretty much the same and function pretty much the same.

Where they differ is internally and in strength.  The trigger on the Encore is generally not as good as the Contender without a little work.  The Contender(Old style) is adjustable for creep and overtravel.  The G2 is not, nor is the Encore.

Strength is the biggie.  The contender is a weaker frame and while it can handle powerful cartridges ie 45-70, 444 marlin, .375 JDJ.  That's about where it maxxes out.  The Encore can handle any cartridge available.  If Magnums are your thing, then the Encore is your gun.
Searching for the perfect left handed revolver.....

Offline singleVI

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Avid Poster
  • **
  • Posts: 241
  • Gender: Male
Re: Frame Size
« Reply #2 on: November 21, 2006, 09:02:48 AM »
So would the 30/30 Ackley Improved be better suited to a Contender than an Encore? I wondering because if the Encore can handle magnum cartridges it must weigh more and since the 3030AI isnt a magnum cartridge it wouldn't need the extra frame, right?

Offline Heavy C

  • Trade Count: (7)
  • Senior Member
  • *****
  • Posts: 1088
  • Gender: Male
Re: Frame Size
« Reply #3 on: November 21, 2006, 09:23:05 AM »
That's correct.  I started with the G2 because it also affords you the ability to put rimfire barrels on it.  You have to modify the Encore in order to do that.  T/C's are addictive as I now have 2 G2's and 3 Encores! :o  Out of all the barrels I have, none is a rimfire.  ???  I don't think the weight difference is that significant especially if you have a good holster for it.  Either way, I think you'll be happy with these rigs - they're awesome guns.

Offline EdK

  • Trade Count: (2)
  • Contributor
  • ***
  • Posts: 499
Re: Frame Size
« Reply #4 on: November 22, 2006, 01:06:26 AM »
I started with the orignal Contender and have since added an Encore frame. While I like the Encore very much and will not even consider parting with it because of its' ability to handle the larger stuff, the original Contender is still my favorite. Get a Contender in your hand with a 10" bull barrel and then when you pick up an encore you will be able to understand. It just handles that much better.

Ask yourself what you plan to do. Rimfire, varmints, medium/large game at 50-100-150 yards then the Contender might be best for you. Larger game or greater ranges then maybe you should get into an Encore. Or... one of each  ;D