The Henry .22 Lever Action Guns: A Look at 10 Remarkable Models

In the world of firearms, the Henry .22 caliber lever-action rifles have earned a special place for their unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, these rifles have evolved into a diverse range of models, each with its own distinct features and appeal. In this guide, we will explore ten of the most notable Henry .22 lever-action guns, delving into their specifications, performance, and the unique experiences they offer to shooters. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a novice looking to explore the world of lever-action firearms, this comprehensive guide will provide an insightful journey through the Henry .22 family.

The Henry Golden Boy

The Henry Golden Boy is an iconic lever-action rifle that embodies the classic western-style design. Its name, “Golden Boy,” stems from the distinctive brass receiver, which gives the rifle a golden hue. This model is chambered in .22 Long Rifle (LR) and features a 20-inch octagon-shaped barrel, offering a unique blend of style and performance. The Golden Boy is renowned for its accuracy and is a favorite among target shooters and small game hunters. With an overall length of 38.5 inches and weighing around 4.5 pounds, it is well-balanced and easy to handle. The rifle’s classic looks, combined with its reliable performance, make it a popular choice for both recreational shooting and collecting.

Henry Big Boy .22 Magnum

The Henry Big Boy .22 Magnum is a powerful addition to the Henry .22 family, designed for those seeking more stopping power than the standard .22 LR. Chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR), this rifle delivers increased velocity and energy, making it suitable for larger small game hunting. The Big Boy .22 Magnum features a 20-inch barrel and an overall length of 39.5 inches, similar to the Golden Boy. Its weight, at approximately 6.5 pounds, provides a more substantial feel while maintaining excellent balance. The rifle’s walnut stock and brass receiver add to its aesthetic appeal, making it a beautiful and functional addition to any collection.

Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with 16.12” Barrel

For those seeking a more compact option, the Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with a 16.12-inch barrel is an excellent choice. This rifle offers the same reliability and performance as its longer counterparts but in a more convenient package. With an overall length of 28.5 inches and a weight of approximately 4.5 pounds, it is highly maneuverable and ideal for close-quarters shooting. Chambered in .22 LR, this rifle is perfect for plinking, small game hunting, and recreational shooting. Its shorter barrel length provides a more compact profile without compromising on accuracy.

Henry U.S. Survival Rifle

The Henry U.S. Survival Rifle is a unique offering in the .22 lever-action lineup, designed with survival and emergency situations in mind. This rifle features a takedown design, allowing it to be easily disassembled and stored in a compact carrying case. It is chambered in .22 LR and has a 16.12-inch barrel, making it highly portable. The U.S. Survival Rifle includes a multi-caliber kit, enabling it to fire .22 Short, .22 LR, and .22 WMR ammunition. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for survival scenarios, where adaptability is crucial. With an overall length of 28.5 inches when assembled, it is a compact and reliable tool for any outdoor enthusiast.

Henry .22 Magnum Lever Action Rifle

The Henry .22 Magnum Lever Action Rifle is a powerful and accurate option for those seeking increased performance in a .22 caliber rifle. Chambered in .22 WMR, this rifle delivers higher velocities and better energy transfer, making it suitable for small game hunting and target shooting. With a 20-inch barrel and an overall length of 39.5 inches, it offers a balance between power and maneuverability. The walnut stock and brass receiver contribute to its classic aesthetics, making it a visually appealing addition to any collection.

Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with Octagon Barrel

The Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with an Octagon Barrel is a visually striking model that combines modern performance with a classic look. Featuring an octagon-shaped barrel, this rifle offers improved accuracy and a unique visual appeal. Chambered in .22 LR, it is well-suited for target shooting and small game hunting. The octagon barrel, combined with the traditional lever-action design, creates a rifle that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With an overall length of 38.5 inches and a weight of approximately 4.5 pounds, it is well-balanced and comfortable to shoot.

Henry Golden Boy Silver

The Henry Golden Boy Silver is a special edition of the iconic Golden Boy rifle, featuring a distinctive silver-colored receiver. This model maintains the classic Golden Boy design but with a modern twist. Chambered in .22 LR, it offers the same accuracy and reliability as its brass-receiver counterpart. The silver receiver adds a unique visual element, making it a sought-after collector’s item. With an overall length of 38.5 inches and a weight of around 4.5 pounds, it retains the Golden Boy’s excellent handling characteristics.

Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with Buckhorn Rear Sight

The Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with a Buckhorn Rear Sight is designed with precision shooting in mind. This model features a traditional buckhorn rear sight, which offers a clear and accurate sight picture. Chambered in .22 LR, it is well-suited for target shooting and small-game hunting. The buckhorn rear sight, combined with the rifle’s inherent accuracy, makes it an excellent choice for shooters who prioritize precision. With an overall length of 38.5 inches and a weight of approximately 4.5 pounds, it maintains the classic Henry .22 balance and handling.

Henry .22 Magnum Lever Action Rifle with Octagon Barrel

The Henry .22 Magnum Lever Action Rifle with an Octagon Barrel combines the power of the .22 WMR cartridge with the accuracy-enhancing benefits of an octagon-shaped barrel. This model offers increased velocity and energy transfer, making it an excellent choice for small game hunting and long-range target shooting. The octagon barrel, combined with the .22 Magnum cartridge, provides a highly accurate and reliable shooting experience. With an overall length of 39.5 inches and a weight of approximately 6.5 pounds, it delivers a solid and balanced shooting platform.

Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with Sights

The Henry .22 Lever Action Rifle with Sights is a versatile model that offers a combination of accuracy and convenience. This rifle features open sights, which provide a quick and intuitive aiming solution. Chambered in .22 LR, it is well-suited for a wide range of shooting activities, from plinking to small game hunting. The open sights, combined with the rifle’s inherent accuracy, make it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more traditional shooting experience. With an overall length of 38.5 inches and a weight of around 4.5 pounds, it offers excellent handling and maneuverability.

Choosing the Right Henry .22 Lever Action Gun

When selecting a Henry .22 lever-action rifle, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Caliber: Choose between the standard .22 LR and the more powerful .22 WMR, depending on your intended use.
• Barrel Length: Consider the trade-off between accuracy and maneuverability. Longer barrels generally offer better accuracy, while shorter barrels are more portable.
• Receiver Material: Henry offers rifles with brass and silver receivers, each adding a unique aesthetic to the rifle.
• Sights: Decide between open sights, buckhorn sights, or opting for a scope-ready model, depending on your shooting style and precision requirements.
• Special Features: Look for additional features like takedown designs for portability or multi-caliber kits for versatility.

Conclusion

The Henry .22 lever-action rifle family offers a diverse range of models, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. From the iconic Golden Boy to the powerful Big Boy .22 Magnum, there is a Henry .22 rifle to suit every shooter’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re a collector, a hunter, or a recreational shooter, the Henry .22 lever-action rifles provide a blend of classic style, modern performance, and reliable accuracy. With a rich history and a commitment to quality, Henry rifles continue to be a popular choice among shooters worldwide.

What is the recommended ammunition for Henry .22 rifles?

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Henry .22 rifles are designed to handle a wide range of .22 LR and .22 WMR ammunition. It’s recommended to use high-quality ammunition to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.

Can I use the Henry .22 rifles for hunting larger game?

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While Henry .22 rifles are primarily designed for small game hunting and target shooting, the .22 WMR chambered models can be effective for larger small game species. However, for larger game hunting, it’s recommended to consider rifles chambered in larger calibers.

Are Henry .22 rifles suitable for beginners?

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Absolutely! Henry .22 rifles are known for their ease of use and reliability, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They offer a great platform to learn the basics of shooting and develop fundamental skills.

Can I customize my Henry .22 rifle with aftermarket accessories?

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Yes, Henry .22 rifles are compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including scopes, sights, and stocks. This allows shooters to personalize their rifles to their specific needs and preferences.

Where can I purchase Henry .22 rifles and accessories?

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Henry .22 rifles and accessories are available through authorized dealers and online retailers. It’s recommended to purchase from reputable sources to ensure the authenticity and quality of the products.