The G2 frame is a little stronger. Maybe you shouldn't push it any harder than you would push and old style Contender, but perhaps it will take the heavier recoiling calibers a bit better over the long haul. There are plenty of folks that will argue this point, but I've noticed that some of the custom barrel makers will list a few offerings that are for "G2 Contender Only".
Occaisonally you'll find an old barrel that does not want to lock up on the G2 frame. If you do you'll need to polish the locking bolts on the barrel a bit, there are instructions and diagrams for this in one of the stickies, either here or in the TC Handgun forum.
Some of the old forearms will not fit the G2 frame without a little modification. The inside of the forearm needs to have a small bit of the wood removed to clear the frame when it opens. If you run across this, you'll see where it needs to be modified! I just use a coping saw and a small rasp to remove a small wedge of material, then rub a little TruOil, tongue oil, or linseed to seal it back up. Only takes a few minutes, and the modification doesn't even show once you install it on the gun.
There are also a few of the old forearms that will not clear the reinforcing bars on the sides of the G2 frame. The "ears" will bump into the wide area of the frame. I modify these forearms also by carefully rasping away a little "half moon" on each side of the forearm so that it will clear. A little sanding and some stock finish and it looks like it came that way from the factory!
You'll find that the G2 and "old style" Conteders have both pluses and minuses. I love them both!
Hope this helps!
