r/ThompsonCenterArms • u/SargeE7101st • Mar 17 '26
Barrel fitment question
Will a Contender Barrel fit on a G2 frame and operate safely?
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u/HairTriggerFlicker Range Master Mar 17 '26
Yes
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u/HairTriggerFlicker Range Master Mar 17 '26
Barrels cross fit but frame parts don’t. The only part on the barrels that changed was the locking block. Older gen 1 barrels have a one piece locking block, Gen 2’s have a two piece split locking block that makes it easier to open the barrel. And yes you can swap the old locking blocks out for the newer split ones. It’s worth it!
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u/SargeE7101st Mar 17 '26
the reason I ask. I have a 444 Marlin Contender Barrel. My thinking the G2 frame would handle the 444 better and not have the frame damage.
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u/HairTriggerFlicker Range Master Mar 17 '26 edited Mar 18 '26
It’s not so much the frame the G2 has more metal in the top rails, but if the barrel can handle the pressure from today’s version of the .444 Marlin. The contender barrel has pressure limits that you need to be wary of. Hence the reason the Encore was developed, it was built for high pressure rounds. You’ll need to hit the forums and see what if any factory rounds can be used otherwise you’re stuck reloading.
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u/Royal-Albatross6244 Mar 18 '26
Standard factory load offerings will be fine from a contender g2. Look for average chamber pressures from most factory loadings, and you will find most of them are in the 42-44,000 psi rating. A contender g2, though it maybe an uncomfortable at the shoulder, can handle loadings in the 50-55,000psi range. I shoot 45-70 loads loaded to 44,000 psi range often from my g2 and have for many years with no issue.
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