THE NEW SSK-50 RECEIVER

[Mark M.]

I see these have been out for a little while now, I'm wondering how you fellas like them, any issues? Would appreciate some feedback likes or dislikes. Thanks, fellas.

 

[K9TXS]

I purchased my SSK-50 from Midway USA. At the time of my purchase about 2 months ago it was in stock and I got it in about 3 days.

I put an SSK 14" .223 Rem. barrel with a 7 twist on it. I also added a JP muzzle brake and a Nightforce SHV scope. I've only been able to shoot out to 100 yards, so far and very pleased with the results.

I've been shooting 80 gr Bergers VLD and found them to be very accurate. I just got in some Hornady ELD-X and will try them out this week. I hoping they will shoot as good as the Bergers.

I haven't had any issues at all with my setup. I do load development from the bench and actual critter shooting from a tripod and a DIY PSR style rest.

 

[nakneker]

Haus of arms has the flat sides in stock, link below. I’m waiting to get a bit more feedback myself but from what I’ve seen so far people like those new frames.

SSK-50 FRAMES

 

[K9TXS]

When I bought my barrel, it came directly from SSK. They were the only suppliers that had one in stock.

I've read a few post on some other forums where some guys are having issues fitting a non SSK barrel. They didn't say what the issue was.

 

[snert]

Curious how the SSK and the new return of TC is going to play out. Either way, I hope it brings down the apparent cost of older TC barrels.

 

[tred1956]

I have a BullBerry barrel on my SSK-50 frame with no issues. Before I ever mounted a barrel I did a trigger job, but then that is just how I like them. Frame lock up is crisp and solid. As good as I have ever owned. Very satisfied!!!
Safe shooting
Doug

 

[BobT]

Not all of my barrels fir my SSK50 frame but I like it, I usually dedicate a frame to each of my favorite barrels anyway so I just found a barrel that fit the frame and called it good. Having said that, not all of my barrels are compatible with all my original frames either. I'm sure I could get any of my barrels to work if I wanted to go to the trouble but I don't feel the need at this point. I think the SSK50 is well made and I'm sure I'll eventually get a few more.

 

[boltfluter]

I am out of the loop here. Have not had a Contender for many years. What are the advantages of this nice looking receiver?
Paul

 

[dhagerty40]

The only difference between the SSK-50 and the original contender is the tolerances. other than that, they are the same.

The problem people are having is because of this. The tolerances on the original contender were fairly sloppy. Usually, they cannot get them open. But with a little fitting they get them to work.

Along with that, about 80% of the people complaining do not know how to properly open a contender! I have been able to get them open for them and at worst had to give a tap on the barrel to open.

If the new TC owners bring it back, it will be the Contender G2 and not the original (G1) contender which is what the SSK-50 is.

 

[3Ackleys]

I am out of the loop here. Have not had a Contender for many years. What are the advantages of this nice looking receiver?
Paul

One advantage is, they are currently being manufactured. There may be other advantages, but I haven't had a chance to try one. I have plenty of the originals, so I have resisted buying an SSK.

 

[Melvin]

Several of my silhouette friends are having trouble with barrels fitting.
here is MGM(Match Grade Machine) stance on the new frames
”

• SSK50 Frame Warning*
  I understand MGM does not warranty fitment on SSK 50 frames
  We will only warranty fitment on original Contender and G2 frames. We are not satisfied with the SSK 50 fitment at this time, and we will not modify barrels to work with them.”

melvin

 

[DJD]

Several of my silhouette friends are having trouble with barrels fitting.
here is MGM(Match Grade Machine) stance on the new frames
”

• SSK50 Frame Warning*
  I understand MGM does not warranty fitment on SSK 50 frames
  We will only warranty fitment on original Contender and G2 frames. We are not satisfied with the SSK 50 fitment at this time, and we will not modify barrels to work with them.”

melvin

Hausofarns is selling mgm barrels so I'm kinda supposed they aren't going to warranty them.
I personally don't have one (yet), but when I do I'll make sure I get an ssk or bullberry I guess

 

[dhagerty40]

Hausofarns is selling mgm barrels so I'm kinda supposed they aren't going to warranty them.
I personally don't have one (yet), but when I do I'll make sure I get an ssk or bullberry I guess

That is a good idea. MGM barrels use different lugs and do not conform to The TC specs which are causing havoc even with original TC frames.

I have an MGM encore barrel which works fine when cold but when it gets hot, you cannot open the action. barrel (twice) and once with frame have been back to MGM and it is still not fixed.

 

[DJD]

That is a good idea. MGM barrels use different lugs and do not conform to The TC specs which are causing havoc even with original TC frames.

I have an MGM encore barrel which works fine when cold but when it gets hot, you cannot open the action. barrel (twice) and once with frame have been back to MGM and it is still not fixed.

I didn't know that, thanks for the info! I've been wanting a contender for years, but was waiting for a smokin deal that never showed lol

 

[Anchorite]

Hoping we see some "new" T/C frames by first-quarter next year, courtesy of the new management.

 

[Knotwild]

I have a friend with a G1 Contender. He had MGM make a 17HMR barrel. It would not fit and could not open. He sent it back, still did not fit. Sent the whole gun back and now it works, but you have to have the strength of a gorilla to open it. I haven't read about those problems with Bulberry.

 

[BobT]

The MGM barrel I tried on my SSK 50 wouldn't even close all the way, let alone lock up. I have an SSK barrel on it now and am perfectly happy with it. I think the SSK 50 is a very well made frame and just as an aside I bought my first Contender in 1979 and have been shooting them ever since, it's fair to say that for every round I fire from a different gun I probably fire 20 from a Contender. As far as I know I have shot barrels from every maker except Ingram. I do have a couple of Encores but the original Contender is my favorite shooting platform. I have a handful of friends I get together with a couple times a year and we shoot the Contenders all day. With the current component situation I have found myself gravitating toward smaller cartridges and cast bullet friendly stuff. I hope the SSK 50 is here to stay.