lever action

The original Henry may well be lost to history, but you can still shoot a Henry Original. And this monster lever-action is an experience. This historic firearm was once a monumental leap forward in firearms technology. How does it stack up today?

When I pulled this gun out of its unassuming box, I was predisposed to like it. Lever action rifles are fun–even more so when they’re chambered in .22 LR. But then I shot the gun. I don’t know what kind of magic Henry is using to produce these guns, but I like it! This may be the best range experience I’ve had this year.

1873 was a big year in the firearms world. Colt’s new single action was adopted by the Army and Winchester came out with their best lever action to date. Originally chambered in .44 W.C.F., aka 44-40, the 1873 Winchester was the most powerful of the lever guns when it was introduced. This was a huge step forward from the rimfire .44 caliber used in the Henry and earlier Winchester rifles.

Henry makes guns that keep up the values established by the company’s namesake—traditional pistol caliber lever actions, mostly. These guns make versatile ranch guns, and are cowboy competitions. They’re adding to their catalog in a big way. If you are looking for an American made .30-30, or a hard hitting favorite .45-70, check out the new guns from Henry. These are hard-working lever actions, but miles away from the pistol calibers you might associate with the brand.

Hickok 45 takes a look at John Browning’s 1887 lever-action shotgun.