Thompson Contender 44 magnum

SoDelft · #1 12-01-2021, 12:49 PM

I want to sell my Gen 1 Thompson Contender 44 magnum. As I age, the gun is too much for me at 73. it has a bent front sight but otherwise in good shape. I do not know how much to sell it for and where to sell it. I have never sold a gun that had to be shipped and wonder if it is a complex endeavor.The barrel looks about 10 inches with the removal extension screwed on.I trust this forum.

Chukar60 · #2 12-02-2021, 12:38 AM

I am not familiar with TC values so cannot offer an opinion of the value. Your extension is actually a choke for using bird shot loads.
I am certain someone here will be familiar with TC values. They remain popular with a lot of folks.
Good luck with your endeavor

mtgianni · #3 12-02-2021, 12:59 AM

On gunbroker the barrel options of the "hot shot" run less money than a regular barrel. Wood furniture sells for about $100 more than pachmeyers do.

It depends on how quick a sell you want but for an original frame and barrel that you have $425 or so would be a decent start, $500 would be on the high side. G2 with wood and a 14" standard barrel would be about $100 more. 10" 44 Magnums have a deserved reputation of being a kicker. It seems strange to me that a hard kicking caliber gun sells for less with pach's but they do. You may get more by selling a bare frame for $350, and the hot shot bbl and grips for $175.

Ivan the Butcher · #4 12-02-2021, 02:37 AM

I could sell you my spare 10", 221 Fireball barrel. It uses the same forearm as that 44 barrel and the recoil is so much milder! I would work on a trade but have a Ported Super 14 barrel in 44 mag.

If you have been shooting regular ammo with the choke in place, that would explain the extreme recoil. With the choke in, you are supposed to use shot shells.

My other 221 barrel will take care of smaller (Fox on down) pests out to 200 yards, another 100 yards if you're a better shot then me!

Ivan

dsf · #5 12-02-2021, 02:42 AM

Is that an octagon barrel - 10" usually is.

They do kick like heck. I have about 40 barrels and chamberings and the octagon 44 Magnum is pretty high on the "bang - ouch" list. I'd rather do the 375 H&H or 405.

I'll agree with the $425.00 and $500.00 spread, keep in mind the newer TC Contender and Encore don't have adjustable triggers, yours does. You have the catamount engraving and unlike newer models a hammer extender won't (eventually) bend and break the hammer spur. G2 Contender barrels will fit your frame too.

Downsides are the action is pretty tough to open and must be opened if you lower the hammer but don't fire.

I don't recall if the front sight is screw attached, if so it's easy to replace. I'm assuming that under the rear sight it's d&t for a standard TC scope mount.

Depending on which state shipped, you should be able to do it yourself - perfectly legal for you to ship to a receiving FFL. Others may not agree, but it is 100% the buyer's responsibility to ensure his FFL will accept from a mere mortal "non-FFL holder". If the gun shows up bloodstained, covered in hair and brain matter with a note that reads "bury next to Hoffa's body" and the FFL says "no thanks" - it's all on the buyer to resolve, not you.

An alternative is to go to your LGS and have him ship to the receiving FFL. Add the cost on to the shipping. Still, the buyer is responsible for ensuring his FFL accepting.

6string · #6 12-02-2021, 02:57 AM

Hi,
Yours has the old style front and rear sight. The front sight is brazed/soldered to the barrel. Replacing that sight would involve refinishing the barrel. Depending how bent it is, it might be possible to straighten. Or, it could break!
Price range/value mentioned seems accurate.
I think T/C used to warn not to shoot solid bullets with that choke on as it can damage the choke.
Your best bet for selling is to go through an FFL who will ship for you. This might actually be cheaper for you since an FFL can ship to another FFL through the post office. Individuals cannot! USPS priority mail with insurance is much cheaper than next day FEDEX or UPS.
As a bonus, if you have no track record as an online seller, going through an FFL dealer gives the buyer the option to talk to that same dealer and confirm condition, description, etc.
Do you have a local FFL with whom you're on friendly terms?

Ruger 1,3 · #7 12-02-2021, 08:03 AM

Any chance of seeing a pic of the bent front sight?

Buick · #8 12-02-2021, 08:10 AM

I have been selling off my gun collection for the past year, through consigning at my local FFL.
Guns are selling well currently, and the 20% fee charged for consignment has not been a deal breaker for me at all. I just drop off my gun and pick up my check in a couple weeks. I have seen some FFL dealers in my area offer to consign as low as 12%, but i have known my dealer for decades and am comfortable with 20%.

LittleAugieMo · #9 12-02-2021, 09:03 PM

Would measure bbl. Length may possible be an 8". Less common than 10"

SoDelft · #10 12-03-2021, 01:23 PM

I measured the barrel without the choke. It appears to be 8 inches and not octagonal . I've added some more pictures and bought it used but never shot it. It appears to have 2 screws on the front site and the site looks like it could be straightened. Thank you everyone for your your advice and information.