I know the Encore handles higher pressures than the G2 but in calibers common to both models, are there any other inherent advantages to the Encore?

quote:

in calibers common to both models

Not really.

Other than the ability to handle cartridges which create greater backthrust, I see no advantage. In fact, I prefer the old-style Contender over both the G2 and Encore.

My philosophy is that if I can't kill something cleanly with cartridges safe for the Contender, I probably couldn't kill it with anything else, either.

quote:

Originally posted by Bobby Tomek:
Other than the ability to handle cartridges which create greater backthrust, I see no advantage. In fact, I prefer the old-style Contender over both the G2 and Encore.

My philosophy is that if I can't kill something cleanly with cartridges safe for the Contender, I probably couldn't kill it with anything else, either.

Not a bad philosophy Bobby Tomek.

Here are just a few reasons I love the Contender format:

Nice pictures, Bobby. I had the oldest Contender in the seventies (the old square grip with silver grip cap) and then a later carbine with the split locking lug. Back when I was young and starting a family I had to sell things I wish I hadn't.

Been thinking about another and wondered if there was a reason to cull either or. Guess not. Thanks for all the replies.

IMO the advantage falls to the G2 due to its better handling. I understand that is totally subjective, but try picking up an Encore 209x50 (it swings like a 2x4)....then pick up a G2 209x50 (much better balance and is SWEET!!).

Ken

Bobby,
Who did the stocks on your G2?

Cliff-
I don't have a G2, but for my Contenders, the thumbholes were made by a fellow in North Carolina. I have not been able to contact him for a couple years now and fear he may have passed on as I know he had a multitude of health problems.

As to the couple of photos with the wide forend on a 7mm Bullberry: Dave Dolin (TC Dave on the specialty pistols board) made it and a couple others for me. He does a GREAT job and is very reasonable.

I also have a set from highplainsgunstocks.com and recommend this gentleman very highly. In fact, I will be ordering another buttstock from him in the next few weeks.

Bobby

Okay. I'm familiar with highplains and am close to ordering an Encore set from him.

Cliff-

I got the camo laminate set, and it did not require even the slightest bit of tweaking. The fit was perfect as it came out of the box.

A thumbhole for my son's Contender in 25x30-30 is next on my list, as is one for my Encore in .308 WCF when I can scrape up a little extra $$.

Personally, I'd say that the G2 is a better pistol and the Encore is a better long gun. The encore is too big and heavy for a handgun. I like 30-06 and 308 type cartridge rifles which are only available in Encore. I'm sure a lot of folks will have different opinions.

Another difference is the hammer. The G2 has a centerfire / rimfire option. The Encore hammer is only centerfire.

Rimfire barrels are available for the Encore. The bore is slightly lower so that the fireing pin hits the top of the rim.