Thinking of buying a new G-2 as a new toy. How does it compare to older Contenders as far as grip angle? I know the trigger is adjustable with bending the springs but how hard is it to do? Has Pachmayer come out with grips yet? I know the forearm is the same for either. Which is the most balanced barrel length 10", 12" or 14"? I will be using this for hunting deer and hog in Fl and Ga. I am thinking I might like to try 30-30Imp and would like to know what is gained over the regular 30-30.
Any helps or personal observations would be appreciated,
Thanks, Joe

the G2 grip feels awesome in my hands.

the spring bend is very easy. i'm not even good at mechanical stuff, but find it very easy.

the pachmayr is not available for G2's, but stainless models come with great feeling rubber grip n forearm from factory. i suppose one could purchase those for a blued model as well.

i prefer 14"+ barrels n thats all i use. i am getting a 12.5" 17 caliber rimfire from OTT though.

the 30-30AI gains one MUCH better looking case with shorter neck, straighter case walls, n 40 degree shoulder. i havn't chronied regular 30-30 much, but 125-130gr bullets in the improved version run 2400-2600+ fps, and 150's 2300-2400fps.

Thanks for the info. The 30-30IMP has intriqued me for a while, a friend had his Marlin 336 re-chambered in the IMP chambering. Is it better to buy 30-30IMP barrel or 30-30 and have it re-chambered?
Thanks, Joe

I can provide a little info on the .30-30 WInchester vs the .30-30 Ackley Improved as I have shot both in 14" Barrels. Generally speaking the load I used in the .30-30 Winchester pushed a 125gr. Nosler Ballistic Tip to 2375 - 2400 FPS. Accuracy was always quite good, 3/4" to 1" 5 shot groups at 100 yards.

As per the .30-30 Ackley Improved I again used the 125gr. Nosler Ballistic Tip Bullet. Muzzle Velocities were in the 2601 FPS to 2683 FPS range depending on powder used. I also tested some 150gr. Nosler Ballistic Tips in the .30-30 Ackley Improved. Velocity was 2400 FPS, but the accuracy was not quite as good as with the 125gr. Nosler Ballistic Tips.

I did shoot one 4x4 Whitetail Buck with the 125gr. Nosler Ballistic Tips. It was at quite a distance, bullet performance was good, and it was a one shot kill.

As per the Pachmayr Grips for the G2. There are none available to my knowledge. I am betting there probably won't be either since Pachmayr has never made a Rubber Grip & Forend for the Encore either.

I have had both 10" Bull Barrels, Super 14 Barrels and a couple 15" Barrels for Contenders. For Walking Shelterbelts and such where shots are more than likely going to be taking without a good rest I prefer a 10" Contender Barrel. However the 10" Contender Barrels limit a persons range somewhat largley due to the Ballistics provided by the shorter barrels. When shooting from a good rest (generally use Crossed Shooting Sticks) from either a kneeling or sitting position I find the Super 14 Barrels can be shot quite accurately. It really all boils down to personal preference.

Good luck with your quest.

Larry

mike sirois at OTT could tell you if he's had any success with a 30-30 rechamber. it may depend on how good it shoots now, as a 30-30.
the best rechamber would be from one of the smaller 30 calibers, as it would cut an all new throat etc.

a full custom OTT would have to be really sweet

I'll take the other side of the arguement as far as the G2 grip angle. I hate it!! It does not feel comfortable to me at all. I'll stick with the old Contenders.

That's some great information I really appreciate it.
Thanks, Joe