Hey Graybeard. I shoot the earlier version of the contender and I don't think there is much difference between the two except you don't have to recock yours if you pull the trigger without firing it like I do. I have several pistol and rifle barrels for mine so yours could be made into a carbine / rifle as well as a muzzleloader. I use a pachmyer rubber grip & forearm for pistol and a black composite stock / forearm for my carbine. I have a 7mm08,308 and a 17HMRbarrel for carbine / rifle and 22 Hornet, 17HMR, 45/410, 357 and a 44 mag for pistol. One contender will do it all but only one at a time.

I don't care for battery operated scopes but my brother-in-law uses a Millet red dot and likes it.

Regarding T/C customer service, I hear what you're experiencing is the "norm" now. I heard they have been bought out by Smith & Wesson but I haven't confirmed that rumor yet.

Good luck with you G2 as I hear they are nice.