Contender 45/410 options

[jem44357]

I have a Contender in Alloy II and also have a blued one. The Alloy will accept any barrel. The blued one will not. I want to get a 45/410 barrel. I would prefer one in Alloy II, did they every make one? SS would be my next option.
 
Does anyone know what the restriction of the chokes are? What type of shot will they shoot?
 
Would it be possible to put a set of tru glo sights on it?
 
If only one type choke is offered would it be possible to have other chokes made? Any recommendations as to who would be able to do this?

Thanks for any input
Jim

[chiefs50]

I'm not sure what the restriction is on the screw-in choke - it's primary purpose , as you probably know, is to counterract the spin imparted by the rifled barrel.  My 14", vent ribbed, barrel handles 6 and 7.5 shot best and throws effective patterns at 20-25 yards.  I use it mainly for grouse/rabbits.  I installed Tru-Glow sights on mine but had to get longer screws for the rear sight.  I would imagine that a machinist could fabricate different chokes for the barrel but I'm not sure it would be cost-effective to have done.  I do have to say this barrel is a hoot to shoot.  A lot of folks seem to prefer the 10" version (balance and handling) and claim that shorter barrel is as effective as the longer version.
Mike
 
 
 

[jem44357]

I'm not sure what the restriction is on the screw-in choke - it's primary purpose , as you probably know, is to counterract the spin imparted by the rifled barrel.  My 14", vent ribbed, barrel handles 6 and 7.5 shot best and throws effective patterns at 20-25 yards.  I use it mainly for grouse/rabbits.  I installed Tru-Glow sights on mine but had to get longer screws for the rear sight.  I would imagine that a machinist could fabricate different chokes for the barrel but I'm not sure it would be cost-effective to have done.  I do have to say this barrel is a hoot to shoot.  A lot of folks seem to prefer the 10" version (balance and handling) and claim that shorter barrel is as effective as the longer version.
Mike

Mike,
 
Thanks for the input especially on the length. I was entertaining the idea of the 14" just for a bit more velocity for both the 45 and 410. I do not mind the longer barrels I have become comfortable with them. I am planing on working it into a combo Turkey/Deer package. If 20 to 25 yards is attainable that would be fine and I would have no need for a different choke.
 
The # 6 and 7.5 shot you use is lead? I would like to try some of the Hevi shot that is available. I have started using it in my 20ga and it is awesome.
 
It seems I will have to get a used barrel as all I can find new for now is fixed sight/vent ribs, would that be the type you have?
 
How does yours do the 45's? if I could get sub 4" 100 yd groups from the bench I would be happy.
 
Thanks
Jim

[chiefs50]

There are others here with a lot more experience with these barrels than I have and I am sure they will chime in.  I have loaded only lead shot.  I'd be interested in learning of anyone's experience with Hevi Shot.  I haven't shot many .45 Colt rounds out of this barrel but if I recall correctly, I was able to get 3" groups at 50 yards.  The long jump that the .45 bullet has to make before engaging the rifling results in less than impressive accuracy.  The sights are also a little on the crude side so I don't think that helped.  You can get some .444 Marlin or 9.3X74R brass and load up some ".450 Mongo" loads for this barrel.  Those who have done so report getting good accuracy.  The longer brass eliminates the jump the bullet has to make.  I did buy some pricey 9.3X74R brass but haven't loaded any yet.  Google .450 Mongo for load details.  Yep, mine has fixed sights too.  BTW, if you get a new barrel, I think you can also get it in 12".  As for me, I like the Super 14 length.  Hope this info helps.
 
Mike

[spinafish]

when I had a 14" barrel with vent rib, I bought a b-square vent rib scope base and attached a red-dot sight.  that style sight allowed me to use it with both the .45LC and the .410..that barrel shot the heavier weight 45 bullets much better than lighter ones..tangereine sized groups at 75 yds, but the 10" barrel I had wouldn't shoot the .45 LC worth a hoot!