What is the big draw towards the Thompson Contendor? I'm new to this handgun hunting, so don't strangle me for what seems to be something everyone knows. :-)

Extremly strong, accurate, light weight and dependable to name a few.
But the biggest draw for me, is that I get to say that I hunt big game with a single shot handgun

contenders are very acurate.Barrels are easy to exchange.multipule calibers from 22 rimfire to 45-70 including 45/410 30-30 and 223.look for the video posts by 410 to see how the 45/410 barrels can be used.

IF you want more power look into the tompson center encore the big brother of the contender.It can use calibers such as 30-06 and 270.I do not think the encore can shoot rimfire ammo as easily as the contender(if i am wrong someone will set that strait).Some find the encore too big.my advise is to shoot one and see what you think.

as for asking such foolish questions,, we were all fools once then we asked and it was explained to us.

The simple answer is "rifle" performance in a handgun.

Only stupid question is the one that isn't asked... now as far as statements go

The earlier posts just about cover it for the Contender. I've been using them for nearly two decades now and it's a firearm design that is hard to beat.

I just started hunting with contenders and love them, just get you one and you will see

300 yard one shot kills on deer and antelope...man, it don't get better then that!! I have an Encore but love my little Contender!

Bill in OR

The Encore can shoot rim-fire without a problem. TC makes 22lr and 17HMR 15" and 28" barrels with offset chambers. My 17 will do 1" @ 100. Dont forget 300-500 bucks and youve got a new barrel in whatever caliber you want.

Here are a couple of reasons I like Contenders. Even if you prefer an open sighted handgun, the Contender is a great choice. An open sighted Contender with a 10" barrel is about the same size as a 7.5" SA revolver. With the longer barrel and no cylinder gap, you will get higher velocities. I usually shoot more accurately with an open sighted Contender than a revolver also.

Another thing I like about Contenders is that with the addition of a .22lr barrel you can get in a lot of practice at a low cost. Set up your .22 barrel with the same sight system you have on the barrel you'll hunt big game with. Put your .22 to use small game hunting and with target practice from field shooting positions. When you switch over to practice and hunt with your big game barrel, you will be completely familiar with the grip, trigger and sights.

Well said pab1.

I think accurate, dependable, and versatile pretty much sum it all up. I have been hunting with either a TC Encore or Contender since 1996, and will never quit ... once you start hunting with a pistol you will be adicted!

I'll add...
those short stiff barrels don't whip around much!
Guys are really suprised how accurate the pistol is!