Gunner Quinn
Versatility
With two barrels like this, you’re covered for small game/varmints and game like deer, hogs or even bigger game if you’re careful with shot placement. Additionally, the SSK-50 frames offer 100% crossover compatibility. All original barrels, stock sets, grip sets and accessories will work on this new frame. Any chambering working well on the original will work fine on the SSK-50. And, since this frame includes the latest revisions of the original Contender designs, all Gen-1 barrels, current production Gen-2, MGM, Bullberry and SSK barrels will work on these frames.
But, keep in mind with over 55 years of Contender production, barrels and products from at least eight different makers, there are often minor variables creeping in.
“Although customers report a very high percentage of frame/barrel fit success with the SSK-50,” explained Marty, “there may be some after-market barrels so far out of Thompson/Center’s specifications they may not function with the SSK-50. If you have any frame/barrel fit issues, send an email to [email protected] to chat with them.”
I also found with my brand-new frame, Marty said to open and close the barrel hard, locking it home each time, then releasing it and repeating that about 20 times or so. This helps the locking lugs to settle in and meet up with the frame correctly. The CNC production means these things are tight and I think more predicable than the more “analog” way of hand fitting and assembling the originals in the old days.
I have to say it has pleased me to no end to get to know Marty, Art and many others during this project. I’m delighted to see the return of this iconic design and to see how well it’s supported by so many small companies. It seems S&W was wrong when it came to the passion for the TC designs so many of us have. If you’d like to fire-up your shooting fun, take a hard look at the SSK-50 and become more “versatile” yourself in the process. Prices for the frame, depending on configuration, start at about $395.
It’s a steal, if you ask me.
HausOfArms.com
Ph: (636) 359-0104
ThompsonCenterAssociation.org
Ph: (207) 252-3663
SSKFirearms.com
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