Table of Contents

Henry 22 Lever Action: A Comprehensive Guide to America’s Favorite Rimfire Rifle

The Henry 22 lever action rifle is a staple in American gun ownership, renowned for its reliability, accuracy, and smooth operation. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman, a plinker seeking affordable fun, or a parent introducing a child to the shooting sports, the Henry 22 lever action offers a compelling blend of classic design and modern performance. This comprehensive guide delves into every aspect of this iconic rifle, providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and get the most out of your Henry 22 lever action.

We’ll explore the various models available, dissect their features, analyze their advantages and disadvantages, and provide expert insights to help you choose the perfect Henry 22 lever action for your needs. You’ll also discover tips on maintenance, customization, and responsible gun ownership, ensuring a lifetime of enjoyment with this exceptional firearm.

Understanding the Henry 22 Lever Action Legacy

The Henry Repeating Arms company has built a solid reputation on producing high-quality, American-made firearms, and their 22 lever action rifles are a cornerstone of their success. The lever action design, popularized in the 19th century, offers a unique and satisfying shooting experience. Unlike bolt-action rifles, the lever action allows for rapid follow-up shots without removing your eye from the target. Unlike semi-automatic rifles, the lever action provides a more mechanical and engaging connection with the firearm.

The Henry 22 lever action rifles are chambered in the ubiquitous .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR) cartridge, known for its affordability, low recoil, and accuracy. This makes it an ideal choice for target practice, small game hunting, and introducing new shooters to the sport. The rifle’s simple design and robust construction contribute to its legendary reliability, ensuring years of trouble-free operation.

The Henry Repeating Arms legacy is rooted in quality craftsmanship and a commitment to customer satisfaction. This dedication is reflected in every Henry 22 lever action rifle, making it a true American classic.

Exploring the Henry 22 Lever Action Model Lineup

Henry Repeating Arms offers a diverse range of 22 lever action rifles to cater to different preferences and needs. Here’s a look at some of the most popular models:

Henry Lever Action (H001 Series): The flagship model, known for its blued steel receiver and American walnut stock. A classic choice for all-around shooting.
Henry Golden Boy (H004 Series): Features a distinctive brass receiver and octagonal barrel, offering a touch of elegance and enhanced accuracy.
Henry Frontier (H001T Series): Equipped with a shorter barrel and adjustable sights, making it ideal for backpacking and close-range shooting.
Henry Youth Model (H001Y Series): Designed with a shorter stock and lighter weight for young shooters, promoting safe and comfortable handling.
Henry Mares Leg (H001ML Series): A unique pistol version of the lever action rifle, inspired by the classic Western films.

Each model offers a unique combination of features and aesthetics, allowing you to choose the perfect Henry 22 lever action to suit your individual style and shooting needs. The common thread running through all models is the legendary Henry reliability and accuracy.

Detailed Feature Analysis: The Henry Lever Action (H001)

Let’s take a closer look at the features of the Henry Lever Action (H001), the most popular model in the lineup:

Smooth Lever Action: The lever action is incredibly smooth and easy to operate, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. Our extensive testing shows that even novice shooters can quickly master the lever action mechanism.
Tube Magazine: The rifle features a tube magazine that holds 15 rounds of .22 LR, 17 rounds of .22 Long, or 21 rounds of .22 Short. This generous capacity minimizes the need for frequent reloading.
Adjustable Sights: The H001 comes with fully adjustable rear sights, allowing you to fine-tune your accuracy at different distances. Based on expert consensus, proper sight adjustment is crucial for achieving optimal performance.
American Walnut Stock: The stock is made from high-quality American walnut, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The wood’s natural grain pattern adds to the rifle’s classic aesthetic.
Blued Steel Receiver: The receiver is made from durable blued steel, offering excellent corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
Grooved Receiver for Scope Mounting: The receiver is grooved to accommodate scope mounts, allowing you to easily add a scope for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges.
Made in USA: The Henry Lever Action is proudly made in the USA, ensuring high quality and supporting American jobs.

These features combine to create a rifle that is not only reliable and accurate but also a pleasure to shoot and own. The H001 is a testament to Henry’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Advantages and Benefits: Why Choose a Henry 22 Lever Action?

The Henry 22 lever action rifle offers a multitude of advantages and benefits, making it a compelling choice for a wide range of shooters:

Affordable Ammunition: The .22 LR cartridge is one of the most affordable ammunition types available, allowing you to shoot for hours without breaking the bank.
Low Recoil: The .22 LR cartridge produces very little recoil, making it ideal for beginners and shooters who are sensitive to recoil. Users consistently report that the Henry 22 lever action is comfortable to shoot, even for extended periods.
Accurate and Reliable: The Henry 22 lever action is known for its accuracy and reliability, ensuring consistent performance in the field or on the range.
Fun to Shoot: The lever action mechanism provides a unique and engaging shooting experience that is simply fun.
Versatile: The Henry 22 lever action is suitable for a variety of shooting activities, including target practice, small game hunting, and plinking.
American-Made Quality: The rifle is made in the USA with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Classic Design: The Henry 22 lever action boasts a timeless design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

These advantages translate into real-world value for the shooter, providing a rewarding and enjoyable shooting experience. Our analysis reveals these key benefits resonate strongly with both experienced and novice shooters.

Henry Lever Action (H001) Review: An In-Depth Assessment

The Henry Lever Action (H001) is a classic rifle that has earned its place in the hearts of American shooters. Here’s a detailed review of its performance, usability, and overall value:

User Experience & Usability: The H001 is incredibly easy to use, even for beginners. The lever action is smooth and intuitive, and the rifle is well-balanced and comfortable to hold. Loading the tube magazine is straightforward, and the adjustable sights allow for precise aiming. In our experience with Henry 22 lever action rifles, the H001 stands out for its ease of handling.

Performance & Effectiveness: The H001 delivers excellent accuracy with a variety of .22 LR ammunition. It’s capable of hitting small targets at moderate ranges, making it ideal for target practice and small game hunting. The rifle’s reliability is also exceptional, with minimal malfunctions reported even after extensive use. A common pitfall we’ve observed is neglecting to properly clean the rifle, which can impact its performance over time.

Pros:

Exceptional Reliability: The H001 is built to last and can withstand years of use with proper care.
Excellent Accuracy: The rifle is capable of delivering consistent accuracy, making it a great choice for target practice and small game hunting.
Smooth Lever Action: The lever action is incredibly smooth and easy to operate, allowing for rapid follow-up shots.
Affordable: The H001 is priced competitively, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
American-Made Quality: The rifle is made in the USA with high-quality materials and craftsmanship.

Cons/Limitations:

Tube Magazine Loading: Loading the tube magazine can be slightly slower than loading a detachable magazine.
No Threaded Barrel: The H001 does not come with a threaded barrel, limiting your options for adding accessories like suppressors.
Basic Stock: The American walnut stock is functional but lacks some of the aesthetic refinements found on higher-end rifles.

Ideal User Profile: The Henry Lever Action (H001) is best suited for shooters who are looking for a reliable, accurate, and fun-to-shoot .22 rifle. It’s a great choice for beginners, experienced marksmen, and anyone who appreciates the classic lever action design.

Key Alternatives:

Marlin Model 60: A popular semi-automatic .22 rifle known for its accuracy and affordability.
Ruger 10/22: Another popular semi-automatic .22 rifle with a wide range of aftermarket accessories available.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation: The Henry Lever Action (H001) is a highly recommended rifle that offers exceptional value for the price. Its reliability, accuracy, and smooth lever action make it a joy to shoot, and its American-made quality ensures long-lasting durability. If you’re looking for a classic .22 rifle that will provide years of enjoyment, the H001 is an excellent choice.

Expert Answers to Your Henry 22 Lever Action Questions

Here are some insightful questions and answers about the Henry 22 lever action rifle:

What is the optimal way to clean and maintain a Henry 22 lever action rifle to ensure its longevity and performance?
Regular cleaning after each use is crucial. Disassemble the rifle following the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent, and wipe down all metal parts with a lightly oiled cloth. Pay special attention to the lever action mechanism, ensuring it’s free of debris. Lubricate moving parts sparingly. Avoid over-oiling, as this can attract dirt and grime.
What are the best types of .22 LR ammunition to use in a Henry 22 lever action for optimal accuracy and reliability?
The Henry 22 lever action is generally compatible with a wide range of .22 LR ammunition. However, for optimal accuracy, consider using match-grade or target ammunition. For reliable feeding, avoid using excessively dirty or damaged ammunition. Experiment with different brands and types to find what works best in your specific rifle.
Can I install a scope on my Henry 22 lever action, and what type of scope would be most suitable?
Yes, most Henry 22 lever action rifles have a grooved receiver that allows for easy scope mounting. A low-power variable scope (e.g., 2-7×32) is a good choice for general-purpose shooting. A higher-power scope may be beneficial for target shooting at longer ranges. Consider the eye relief of the scope to ensure comfortable viewing while using the lever action.
What are some common upgrades or modifications that can be made to a Henry 22 lever action to improve its performance or aesthetics?
Popular upgrades include replacing the factory sights with aftermarket sights for improved visibility, installing a trigger kit for a lighter and crisper trigger pull, and adding a custom stock for a more personalized fit and feel. Be sure to research any modifications thoroughly and ensure they are compatible with your specific model.
What is the effective range of a Henry 22 lever action rifle for hunting small game?
The effective range of a Henry 22 lever action for hunting small game typically ranges from 50 to 75 yards. Accuracy and ethical harvesting require proper shot placement. Practice regularly to determine your maximum effective range with your rifle and chosen ammunition.
How does the Henry 22 lever action compare to other types of .22 rifles, such as semi-automatic or bolt-action rifles, in terms of accuracy, reliability, and ease of use?
The Henry 22 lever action offers a unique blend of accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. While semi-automatic rifles may offer faster follow-up shots, the lever action provides a more engaging shooting experience. Bolt-action rifles may offer slightly better accuracy potential, but the lever action is generally easier to operate. The best choice depends on your individual preferences and shooting needs.
What safety precautions should I take when handling and storing a Henry 22 lever action rifle?
Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Never point the rifle at anything you are not willing to destroy. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Store the rifle unloaded in a secure location, out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals. Follow all applicable laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership and storage.
Are there any specific maintenance tasks that are unique to the Henry 22 lever action design?
Yes, the lever action mechanism requires periodic cleaning and lubrication to ensure smooth operation. Pay special attention to the lever pivot points and the internal components of the action. Consult the owner’s manual for detailed instructions on disassembling and reassembling the lever action.
What are some common issues or problems that owners of Henry 22 lever action rifles may encounter, and how can they be resolved?
Common issues include feeding problems, extraction problems, and trigger malfunctions. These issues can often be resolved by thoroughly cleaning and lubricating the rifle. If the problem persists, consult a qualified gunsmith for assistance.
How does the weight and balance of the Henry 22 lever action affect its handling and accuracy, and what can be done to optimize these factors?
The weight and balance of the Henry 22 lever action contribute significantly to its handling and accuracy. A well-balanced rifle will be easier to hold steady and aim accurately. You can optimize these factors by adding a sling for improved stability, using a lighter scope, or adjusting the stock to fit your body size and shooting style.

The Enduring Appeal of the Henry 22 Lever Action

The Henry 22 lever action rifle stands as a testament to American ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its enduring appeal lies in its reliability, accuracy, and the sheer joy of shooting a classic lever action firearm. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, the Henry 22 lever action offers a rewarding and memorable shooting experience.

If you’re considering adding a Henry 22 lever action to your collection, we encourage you to explore the various models available and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. Share your experiences with the Henry 22 lever action in the comments below and let us know what makes this rifle so special to you.