T/C Contender Question

[Bullrdr82]

I would really like some help with an issue I have been having with my contender. This is the original contender, not the G2.

Here is what is going on. I have a 30-30 barrel and a .222 barrel. I can put the 30-30 barrel on and the breach action opens just fine. If I have the .222 barrel on the breach release does not seem to want to release. I really have to tug on the barrel to open the breach. The 30-30 will almost open on its own.

This was my grandfathers gun, but it was well taken care of.

Any help would be appreciated.....I know everyone on here is smart, so that is why I came to ask some experts!!

Thanks in advance.

[Four2]

Are both barrels the same length? Are both regular or bull barrels? I had one guy at a gun shop tell me once that barrels for 6", 8" and 10" Contenders don't fit Contenders with 12", 14" and 16". I have had many others tell me they should all interchange. Both of the barrels for mine are 14" bull barrels and fit equally well.

[LaSouthpaw]

I have a contender and an encore and have had several barrels without any problem. Have you tried calling TC? I hear their service department is great.

[Caddo]

Both 10" and 14" TC barrels will work on the older frames. Don't believe I've ever heard of a TC barrel shorter than 10". Make sure the extractor on the bottom of the barrel is not hanging up, well lubricated etc. If the extractor is hanging up and not free flowing you will have trouble opening the action. I am assuming this is happening without putting in a cartridge and/or firing? If it only happens after firing, you've got bigger problems.

LD

[Buckrider]

Back when I was doing research to buy mine, I was told to be sure and test the fit of any barrel that I was interested in buying since some will have the problem that you are having. I don't remember right off why but it could be something to do with the older and new generation models? Ask some gunsmiths, thay should know.

[Bullrdr82]

Thanks for the advice.

The 30-30 barrel is longer than the .222. I am not sure it is the extractor that is hanging, but it could be. This is the first time I have put this barrel on it since I got it. I was going turkey hunting and did not want to have to shoot the 30-30. When it kept hanging up, I took it off and put the 30-30 back on.

I will have to take a look at when I get home again.