So I was at a LGS/range in prep for hunting this weekend and they had 5 Contenders on consignment and a XP-100 in 223 all for what I thought were reasonable prices. I haven't talked my self into one (or several) but i'm getting close. One was a contender with a ~ 16" 405 Winchester barrel which came with 3 boxes of ammo. Does anyone have any experience with this combination? My searching suggested this would be a frame stretcher.

The other rifle configuration was a 22lr at $500 that i am contemplating for my son while i'm looking at the 12" 357 mag with a 2x 1moa aimpoint and full pachmayr grips for $600 (also had 223 with aimpoint and pachmayr and 45/410 in factory grips and irons). I am contemplating parting out one of pistols for the frame and grips.

Someone or their heirs are dispersing the collection.

XP-100 at a reasonable price is rare today...

Myself of all of them the 223 XP100 "if it were a center grip" would be the one I would be most interested in.

The 22LR Rifle would be a good choice for the kids, and also help to slow down ammunition consumption.

If reloading for the 405 the power level could be adjusted down if needed. It might be a good cast bullet rig.

A 12" 357 Magnum is not a bad barrel to have.

I have had a 45/410 and did not really warm up to it for what ever reason. 410 shells were expensive before ammunition got expensive.

Keep us posted on how things go.

Bob R

I ended up coming home with the 22 rifle for my son and the 357 and 223 contenders. I didn't look too closely, but I think the XP was a left hand rear grip stock (sculpted finger grips). These were on consignment and I think someone messed up on pricing. The 22 rifle came with a $160 voodoo tactical rifle case (looked new) and a cheap (but functional) sightron 3x9 scope with rail and rings. The rifle will make a nice Christmas present come December. It will be a few years before he can shoot it on his own without an adult, but I think it will be pretty exciting when he unwraps it.

There are barrel clamp style sling/bipod mounts on all the guns, but luckily the previous owner had lined the clamps with some thick tape so it didn't leave any mark on the rifle barrel. I need to get some paperwork in line before picking up the pistols.
.

I think the 405 winchester and XP were $600. The 45/410 was $550 with iron sights and factory grip/forarm. This was Bills Gun Shop in Circle Pines Minnesota. I don't know if they would ship.
the XP had a Burris 3-12 I believe.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/kivdgr464spfq7t/20221110_204645.jpg?dl=0

Correction the 405 was $500.