I also like the Contenders. And a good Contender IMO has always been slightly more accurate than a good Encore. Not sure why, but that has been my experience. And you are correct, the Contender makes for a better handgun.

There is a forum called "Specialty Pistols". You should go check that out. I have seen a couple of Contender MZ barrels for sale there over the last 30 days or so. They sell a bunch of Contender frames, barrels, stocks, as well as Encore stuff in their classifieds. It is the best place to buy that I have found. Go check it out. You will find the Contender items you are looking for there, if you have a little patience. And you will also probably get a pretty good deal. I bought 3 Contender barrels there last month. Tom.