Henry Lever Action .22 Rifle: A Timeless Classic for Modern Shooters

The Henry lever action .22 rifle is more than just a firearm; it’s a piece of Americana, a nostalgic nod to the Old West, and a reliable tool for marksmanship training, small game hunting, and just plain fun. For generations, shooters have cherished the smooth action, accuracy, and affordability of the Henry .22 lever action. This article delves into the history, features, benefits, and various models of this iconic rifle, exploring why it remains a favorite among both novice and experienced shooters.

A Legacy of Lever Actions

The lever action rifle has a storied history in American firearms. Popularized in the 19th century by companies like Winchester, the lever action became synonymous with cowboys, frontiersmen, and the expansion of the American West. While Henry Repeating Arms is a relatively young company compared to Winchester, founded in 1996 by Louis Imperato, it has quickly established itself as a leader in the lever action market, particularly with its .22 caliber offerings.

Henry Repeating Arms took its name from Benjamin Tyler Henry, the inventor of the Henry rifle, a predecessor to the Winchester lever action. While not directly related to the original Henry rifle company, the modern Henry Repeating Arms pays homage to this legacy by producing high-quality, American-made firearms, including the popular Henry lever action .22 rifle.

Key Features of the Henry .22 Lever Action

The enduring appeal of the Henry lever action .22 rifle lies in its simplicity, reliability, and user-friendly design. Here are some of its key features:

• Smooth Lever Action: The lever action is incredibly smooth and easy to operate, making it ideal for shooters of all ages and skill levels. The short throw of the lever allows for rapid follow-up shots.
• Accurate and Reliable: The Henry lever action .22 rifle is known for its accuracy. The rifles are typically chambered for .22 LR, .22 Short, and .22 Long, offering versatility in ammunition selection. The reliable action ensures consistent feeding and ejection.
• Tube Magazine: Most Henry lever action .22 rifles feature a tube magazine that runs under the barrel. This design is traditional and allows for a high capacity of .22 LR rounds. Loading is typically done through a loading gate in the magazine tube.
• American-Made Quality: Henry Repeating Arms prides itself on manufacturing its rifles in the United States. This commitment to quality ensures that each rifle is built to exacting standards and with durable materials.
• Variety of Models: The Henry lever action .22 rifle is available in a variety of models, including those with blued steel receivers, alloy receivers, and even stainless steel options. There are also models with different stock materials, such as wood and synthetic.
• Affordability: Despite their high quality, Henry lever action .22 rifles are relatively affordable, making them accessible to a wide range of shooters. This affordability, combined with their durability, makes them an excellent value.

Benefits of Owning a Henry Lever Action .22 Rifle

There are numerous benefits to owning a Henry lever action .22 rifle. Here are just a few:

• Excellent Training Tool: The Henry .22 lever action rifle is an ideal training tool for new shooters. The simple operation, low recoil, and inherent accuracy make it easy to learn the fundamentals of marksmanship. The lever action also teaches proper gun handling and cycling techniques.
• Fun for Plinking and Target Shooting: The Henry lever action .22 rifle is simply fun to shoot. Whether you’re plinking at cans in the backyard or engaging in more formal target shooting, the smooth action and accurate performance provide hours of entertainment.
• Effective for Small Game Hunting: The .22 LR cartridge is effective for hunting small game such as squirrels, rabbits, and other similar-sized animals. The accuracy of the Henry lever action .22 rifle makes it a reliable choice for small game hunting.
• Nostalgic Appeal: The lever action rifle evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to the American West. Owning a Henry lever action .22 rifle allows you to experience a piece of history and tradition.
• Durable and Long-Lasting: Henry rifles are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care and maintenance, a Henry lever action .22 rifle can provide years of reliable service.

Popular Henry Lever Action .22 Rifle Models

Henry Repeating Arms offers a variety of Henry lever action .22 rifle models to suit different needs and preferences. Here are a few of the most popular:

Henry Lever Action Classic

The Henry Lever Action Classic is the flagship model and the foundation of the Henry .22 lever action line. It features a blued steel receiver, a walnut stock, and a smooth lever action. This model is a timeless classic that is perfect for plinking, target shooting, and small game hunting.

Henry Lever Action Frontier

The Henry Lever Action Frontier features an octagonal barrel and a fully adjustable rear sight. This model is designed for enhanced accuracy and a more traditional aesthetic. It’s a great choice for shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of a lever action rifle.

Henry Lever Action Youth Model

The Henry Lever Action Youth Model is specifically designed for younger shooters. It features a shorter barrel and stock, making it easier to handle and control. This model is an excellent choice for introducing young people to the joys of shooting.

Henry Lever Action Mare’s Leg

The Henry Lever Action Mare’s Leg is a unique and eye-catching model that is inspired by the famous firearm used in the TV show “Wanted: Dead or Alive.” It features a shortened barrel and stock, making it a compact and maneuverable firearm. This model is perfect for collectors and those who want a unique and historical firearm.

Henry Golden Boy

The Henry Golden Boy is a visually striking rifle with a brasslite receiver cover that evokes the look of antique firearms. It’s incredibly popular among collectors and those looking for a beautiful and accurate Henry lever action .22 rifle. [See also: Henry Golden Boy Review].

Caring for Your Henry Lever Action .22 Rifle

To ensure that your Henry lever action .22 rifle remains in top condition, it’s essential to follow a regular cleaning and maintenance routine. Here are some tips:

• Clean After Each Use: After each shooting session, clean the bore and action of your rifle to remove any residue or fouling.
• Lubricate Regularly: Apply a light coat of oil to the moving parts of the action to ensure smooth operation.
• Store Properly: Store your rifle in a dry and safe place to prevent rust and damage.
• Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning and maintenance recommendations.

The Henry Lever Action .22 Rifle: A Lasting Investment

The Henry lever action .22 rifle is more than just a firearm; it’s an investment in quality, tradition, and enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, the Henry .22 lever action offers a unique and rewarding shooting experience. Its smooth action, accuracy, reliability, and affordability make it a top choice for plinking, target shooting, small game hunting, and training new shooters. With its American-made quality and timeless design, the Henry lever action .22 rifle is sure to provide years of reliable service and shooting enjoyment.

The enduring popularity of the Henry lever action .22 rifle speaks volumes about its quality and performance. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the lever action design and the commitment of Henry Repeating Arms to producing high-quality, American-made firearms. If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate, and fun-to-shoot .22 rifle, the Henry lever action .22 rifle is an excellent choice. [See also: Best .22 Rifles for Beginners]

Consider the various models available to find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. From the classic Henry Lever Action to the unique Mare’s Leg, there’s a Henry lever action .22 rifle for everyone. Invest in a piece of American history and experience the joy of shooting a Henry lever action .22 rifle.

The Henry lever action .22 rifle continues to be a popular choice among shooters worldwide, and for good reason. Its combination of classic design, modern manufacturing, and affordable price point makes it a standout in the crowded .22 rifle market. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or just starting out, the Henry lever action .22 rifle offers a rewarding shooting experience that is sure to bring you years of enjoyment. The Henry lever action .22 rifle’s accuracy is renowned.

Many shooters find the Henry lever action .22 rifle to be an excellent choice for teaching younger generations about firearm safety and responsible gun ownership. The Henry lever action .22 rifle is truly a timeless classic.