Abstract: An embodiment of an electrical contactor according to the present invention provides improved operability and manufacturability. Such electrical contactor may include a housing substantially surrounding an electrical conductor assembly and contact actuator. The conductor assembly includes a stationary contact assembly and a movable contact assembly. The contact actuator selectively mechanically interfaces to the movable contact assembly to make or break an electrical conduction. The contactor provides improved contact bounce dampening and actuator force characteristics. Methods according to the present invention include a method of manufacturing and a method of operating a solenoid actuated electrical contactor so as to minimize solenoid plunger acceleration and impact forces while making the electrical conduction and to maximize solenoid plunger acceleration and impact forces while breaking the electrical conduction.