An adult air rifle: the Tech Force/Compasseco Contender Series 89

Guns Magazine, Dec, 2008 by Rochelle Karina

It's big, it's bulky, it's heavy and the darn thing kicks more than a .22, yet it's an air rifle. But don't think I didn't like it! Because, in fact, I did. The single-shot .177 Contender was a bit of a surprise to me. I'm used to light, "sporty" air rifles, not things I have to do a double take look at to make sure it's not a .22.

Out of the box, it's a beautiful piece, the wood is nice, and it has clean, simple lines. Single-shot air rifles come in all shapes and sizes, many ideal for a youngster's first air gun. This isn't one of those. It's too long and heavy for that. But, for adults, it offers some serious fun. Other models in the Contender Series would be ideal for youngsters.

Our Model 89 came in .177, equipped with a Tech Force scope and claims of 1,100 fps, which I admit had me skeptical. A quick chronograph with a CED Millennium with infrared sky screens in everything from bright, indirect sunlight to deep shadow and dim light showed the Contender 89 was routinely running between 870 and 920 fps. Velocity should rise more after a longer break in period in which the spring piston gets lapped into its chamber. Curious if the rifle packed enough punch to handle small varmints, I shot into a stack of phone books. Sure enough, the 89 easily penetrated 1-1/2" to 2". Well, my question was answered. With such speed and penetration, it was clear the 89 could handle a number of small pests.

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The next question was one of accuracy. The Web site claims a .44" group at 30 yards, from a rest. After some initial problems getting the scope sighted in, requiring some serious and slightly unconventional "field fixing," it was finally shooting to point of aim. Shot offhand at ranges from 7 to 30 yards, it was easy to keep all shots in such a tight area the size of a quarter--anything outside of the group was the shooter's fault. From a rest, it put all the shots into one ragged hole.

Why do I keep harping on varmints? Well, it's simple. This is a single-shot, break-barrel air gun. Sure, it's fun to shoot, but it's not something you're going to take out to the range and spend an entire afternoon plinking away. OK, maybe some of you will, but I won't-it's just too slow for me. However, there are times when you may want to deal with small varmints, but you don't want to whip out a rifle.

A local gun range here has a serious problem with ground squirrels doing major damage to the berms and a friend has a large backyard peppered with palm trees and rats. An air rifle is a perfect choice for dispatching those pesky critters. Obviously, check your local laws before using an air rifle, in some areas they are still classified as a "firearm."

Shooting the Model 89 is very similar to shooting a .22. There is some felt recoil, thanks to the spring action. Larger built shooters enjoyed the Contender 89, saying it shouldered nicely, felt good and handled well. Smaller shooters, however, did find it heavy and awkward.

You want the official nitty gritty? OK, here you go. The barrel breaks open for loading, and it's held in place by a ball bearing detent; it's a tight fit, and requires a firm hand to open, and close. The rifle includes open sights, which are completely adequate, but the scope adds up to more accuracy and more fun. The stock is beech wood, and beautiful, with with rich walnut finish. The grip and forearm are lightly checkered. Other features include a muzzlebrake, blade front sight, scope block and a soft rubber recoil pad. The suggested price on the Contender Model 89 is $189.95, as equipped, with the scope we had, it runs $269.95. The 89 is available as the .177 or as a .22 and with a variety of scope options.

TECH FORCE CONTENDER MODEL 89

MAKER: COMPASSECO INC.

151 ATKINSON HILL

BARDSTOWN, KENTUCKY 40004

(800) 726-1696

WWW.COMPASSECO.COM

VELOCITY:         1,100 fps
ACTUAL VELOCITY:  921 fps
MUZZLE ENERGY:    18.85 ft-lbs
LENGTH:           46.1"
WEIGHT:           7.72 pounds
COCKING EFFORT:   28 pounds
SIGHTS:           Fully adjustable rear, post front
PRICE:            $189.95