Thompson Center
Thompson/Center Arms, based in Rochester, New Hampshire, is known for the interchangeable-barrel Contender and Encore single-shot platforms and for its muzzleloaders. Impact Guns carries a large selection of Thompson Center barrels, plus muzzleloader accessories, stocks and forends, projectiles and single-shot rifles, including Encore, Pro Hunter and Triumph items. This guide explains how the Contender and Encore differ, how to pick a barrel, and what to know about muzzleloader parts.
Read our full Thompson Center Buying Guide ↓
Thompson Center Contender and Encore Single-Shot Platforms
The Contender, introduced in 1967, is a break-open single-shot with interchangeable barrels; the larger Encore followed in 1998 and handles bigger cartridges, according to published histories. Because barrels swap on one frame, a single receiver can serve several calibers. Contender and Encore barrels do not interchange, so confirm the platform before you buy.
Thompson Center Barrels
Barrels are our largest Thompson Center category. Match the barrel to your frame (Contender or Encore, and G2 or original where listed), caliber, length and use (rifle, pistol or muzzleloader). See current selection in Barrels.
Thompson Center Muzzleloaders
Thompson Center’s muzzleloader line includes Encore-based and Triumph models. Muzzleloader rules and season dates vary by state, so check your hunting regulations before you buy. See Black Powder Rifles and Black Powder Guns.
Muzzleloader Accessories and Projectiles
Breech plugs, cleaning supplies, patches, sabots and projectiles are in Muzzleloader Accessories and Muzzleloader Projectiles. Clean the bore and breech plug after each outing, because fouling from muzzleloader propellants can corrode the barrel.
Stocks, Forends and Sights
Replacement stocks and forends let you refit a frame for a different use, and rings and bases mount optics on Thompson Center barrels.
Single-Shot Rifles
Single-shot rifles from Thompson Center suit hunters who value a compact, quick-handling rifle with swappable barrels. See Single Shot Rifles.
Frequently Asked Questions: Thompson Center
What is Thompson/Center known for?
Thompson/Center Arms is known for the interchangeable-barrel Contender and Encore single-shot platforms and for its muzzleloaders, according to published company histories.
What is the difference between the Contender and Encore?
The Contender is the original smaller frame; the Encore is a larger frame that handles more powerful cartridges. Their barrels are not interchangeable.
Does Impact Guns sell Thompson Center barrels?
Yes. Barrels are the largest Thompson Center category in our catalog; see Barrels.
Who owns Thompson/Center today?
Published reports say Smith & Wesson bought the company in 2007 and that its former owner, Gregg Ritz, reacquired it in 2024 with production returning to Rochester, New Hampshire. Check Thompson/Center’s own announcements for current details.
Browse Thompson Center: Barrels • Muzzleloader Accessories • Muzzleloader Projectiles • Stocks & Forends • Single Shot Rifles • Black Powder Rifles
See Also: Single Shot Rifles • Black Powder Guns • Bolt-Action Rifles • Hunting Rifles