Contender/Encore?

[ScottB]

I have been intrigued for some time by these guns, and I'm trying to decide if I should try one out.

My interest is only in the carbine/rifle models at this time. And my main focus is varmint hunting and plinking. There are tons of factory and wildcat chambered barrels available, and the thought of getting into a new caliber for the $250-450 cost of a barrel, rather than the cost of a complete bolt gun, is rather appealing.

Are any of you guys into these, and could offer me some advice?

Thanks!

[Rick in Oregon]

Sounds like you need to visit Varmint Al and his eclectic website. Tons of info, including Contender/varmint shooting, engineering and beyond. It would take a few days to navigate the entire site, but I'm sure you'll find what you're looking for.

I'm into single shot falling block and bolt guns, not so much break-open rifles, but check out Al's site:

http://www.varmintal.com/avarm.htm

[ScottB]

Thanks, Rick.

I am just toying with the idea right now. One of the problems I foresee is dealing with a break open rifle, off a bench, with high volume shooting for prairie dogs or sage rats. Seems like more trouble than it would be worth.

Now, as a light, handy walking varminter, it may make a lot more sense.

[hemiallen]

I agree with your thoughts.


I have only gone to the field for 3 days, probably 800+ rounds fired, but the bolt guns were used 95% of my shooting even though my contender was the least recoiling guns in 22k hornet. I have since gotten a 17 AH in both 12" and 22", the 17 has a lot less recoil, but still off my bench loading and reloading is a much slower deal than a bolt gun, you have to reset bags every time ( probably easier if one used a benchrest front rest with the stop rod) but for me it is less fun than a bolt or maybe a ruger #1 would/ will be.


If you can try someone's gun, it may save you following my path, but I did start this journey shooting pistol silhouette, which they are great for .


Allen

[TC Encore204]

I shoot my 204 in an encore, and my dad his 17HH and 22-250 in an encore also. My 204 shoots half inch, and while breaking it open after every shot isn't ideal it works pretty well with a front rest rear bag when target shooting or shooting varmints.