The Thompson/Center Contender pistol has long been a favorite among hunters and shooters for its versatility and accuracy. One particularly popular configuration is the TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 barrel. This article delves into the details of this specific barrel, exploring its features, uses, performance, and overall value. We'll cover everything from its ballistic capabilities to its suitability for various hunting applications. Understanding the nuances of the 35 Remington Super 14 barrel will help you determine if it's the right choice for your shooting needs.
Understanding the TC Contender Platform
Before diving into the specifics of the 35 Remington Super 14 barrel, let's briefly discuss the Thompson/Center Contender platform itself. The Contender's unique design allows for interchangeable barrels, making it incredibly adaptable. This means you can switch between calibers easily, making it ideal for various hunting and shooting disciplines. The system's accuracy is well-regarded, even at longer ranges, provided you choose a barrel well-suited to your ammunition. The robust frame is designed to handle powerful cartridges, and the overall modularity is a key selling point.
The 35 Remington Cartridge: A Powerful Round
The .35 Remington is a powerful cartridge known for its flat trajectory and excellent stopping power. While not as widely popular as some other calibers, it's a strong contender (pun intended!) for deer hunting and other medium-game applications. Its performance is particularly effective at closer ranges, making it a suitable choice for woods hunting where shots may be taken at shorter distances. Its relatively heavy bullet provides good energy transfer, leading to quick, humane harvests.
- Ballistic Advantages: Flat trajectory, substantial stopping power.
- Hunting Applications: Deer, black bear (depending on bullet selection), hogs.
- Limitations: Recoil can be noticeable, especially in lighter firearms. Accuracy may decrease at longer ranges compared to newer, more modern calibers.
The TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 Barrel: Key Features
The TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 barrel distinguishes itself through several key features:
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14-inch Barrel Length: This length strikes a balance between portability and accuracy. The shorter barrel reduces overall weight, improving maneuverability, while still delivering acceptable accuracy for hunting distances. Shorter barrels often yield a slightly higher muzzle velocity compared to longer barrels, in some circumstances, due to the reduced overall friction on the projectile.
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Accuracy and Precision: While individual barrels will vary slightly, the reputation of the TC Contender platform often leads to high levels of accuracy. A properly broken-in barrel and quality ammunition will deliver excellent shot grouping. However, a longer sight radius on a heavier rifle or carbine platform would provide superior accuracy at long distances compared to a handgun platform.
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Durability and Construction: TC Contender barrels are generally known for their robust construction and resistance to wear and tear. The use of high-quality materials ensures long-term reliability and performance. Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial for prolonging the life of any firearm, including the Contender.
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Interchangeability: This is a key feature of the Contender system. The ability to quickly swap barrels allows for adaptability to different hunting situations or shooting disciplines.
Performance and Ballistics
The exact ballistic performance of a TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 barrel will vary depending on factors such as the specific ammunition used, the barrel's condition, and environmental factors like temperature and altitude. However, generally speaking, you can expect performance comparable to other .35 Remington firearms, with the potential for slightly higher muzzle velocity due to the relatively short barrel length.
| Ammunition Type | Muzzle Velocity (fps) (Approximate) | Energy (ft-lbs) (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| 200 grain Remington Core-Lokt | 2000-2100 | 1800-2000 |
| 180 grain Hornady Leverevolution | 2100-2200 | 1600-1800 |
| Note: These are estimates and can vary significantly. Always consult the ammunition manufacturer's data for precise ballistic information. Always practice safe gun handling and refer to your firearm's owner's manual. |
Applications and Considerations
The TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 barrel is well-suited for various applications, including:
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Deer Hunting: Its power and accuracy make it effective for deer hunting, particularly in situations where shots are taken at closer ranges.
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Hog Hunting: The .35 Remington's stopping power is beneficial when hunting hogs.
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Black Bear Hunting (with caution): While possible, this should only be attempted by experienced hunters using appropriate ammunition and shot placement.
Important Considerations:
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Recoil: The .35 Remington cartridge has noticeable recoil. This is amplified in a handgun platform like the Contender, so proper shooting technique and recoil management are crucial.
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Accuracy at Range: While accurate at hunting distances, a 14-inch barrel will limit long-range accuracy.
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Ammunition Availability: .35 Remington ammunition may not be as readily available as some other more popular calibers.
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Sight System: Consider the type of sights best suited for your needs and hunting style.
Conclusion: Is the TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 Barrel Right for You?
The TC Contender 35 Remington Super 14 barrel offers a unique combination of power, portability, and accuracy within the Contender platform. Its suitability depends on your specific hunting needs and shooting preferences. If you value a compact and powerful setup for hunting medium-sized game at closer ranges, this barrel may be an excellent choice. However, consider the recoil, ammunition availability, and limitations on long-range accuracy before purchasing. Always prioritize safety and proper gun handling practices.