
The Henry rifle is a lever-action tubular magazine rifle designed by Benjamin Tyler Henry in 1860. It was the first practical, repeating lever-action rifle and offered a single man the firepower of a dozen marksmen armed with muzzle-loaders. The rifle has since become an icon of Americana.
The Henry rifle has been used in many notable conflicts, including the Battle of the Little Bighorn and the American Civil War, where it was favoured for its greater firepower compared to the standard-issue carbine.
The rifle has been produced with various modifications and improvements over the years, including changes to the barrel length, magazine capacity, and materials used.
While the Henry rifle is known for its reliability, accuracy, and smooth action, it is possible to short stroke a lever-action rifle, including the Henry. Short stroking involves manipulating the lever in a way that does not fully complete the loading or unloading cycle, potentially causing malfunctions or failures to feed or extract. However, specific instructions on how to short stroke a Henry lever-action rifle were not readily available.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
--- | --- |
Inventor | Benjamin Tyler Henry |
Introduced | 1860 |
Type | Lever-action tubular magazine rifle |
Capacity | 16 rounds |
Caliber | ..44 |
Notable Battles | Battle of the Little Bighorn |
Basis for | Iconic Winchester rifle of the American Wild West |
Produced by | New Haven Arms Company |
Produced from | 1860-1866 |
Produced in | United States |
Number produced | 14,000 |
Modern replicas produced by | A. Uberti, Henry Repeating Arms |
Modern replicas chambered in | .44-40 Winchester, .45 Colt |
What You'll Learn
The history of the Henry rifle
The Henry rifle is a lever-action tubular magazine rifle invented by Benjamin Tyler Henry. It was the first practical, lever-action repeating rifle, patented in 1860. The Henry rifle was used by the Union during the American Civil War and later during the wars between the United States and the Plains Indians.
History
The Henry rifle was conceived by Benjamin Tyler Henry, a famed gunsmith and inventor born in 1821 in Claremont, New Hampshire. Henry worked his way up to become the foreman at the Robins & Lawrence Arms Company of Windsor, Vermont, where he collaborated with Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson on the development of the volitional repeater, which would eventually become the Henry rifle.
In 1855, Smith and Wesson formed the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company, with Oliver Winchester as one of the investors. However, due to internal changes, Winchester took over the company, moved it to New Haven, Connecticut, and renamed it the New Haven Arms Company. Henry was hired as the plant superintendent due to his trusted reputation in the industry.
On October 16, 1860, Henry received a patent for the Henry .44 caliber repeating rifle, and production began soon after. The rifle offered a significant advantage over muzzle-loaded rifles, providing a single man with the firepower of a dozen men. The Henry rifle had a rapid rate of fire and was highly accurate, making it popular among both military and civilian purchasers.
During the American Civil War, the Henry rifle was a highly desired firearm, although it was relatively scarce. It played a significant role in battles such as the Battle of Allatoona Pass and the Battle of Franklin, where it proved its superiority over muzzle-loaded rifles.
In the post-Civil War era, the Henry rifle continued to be sought after, especially in frontier areas like Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana. Its popularity extended beyond the military and was widely embraced by civilians.
The original Henry rifle evolved into the famous Winchester Model 1866 lever-action rifle, and the New Haven Arms Company was renamed the Winchester Repeating Arms Company.
Today, the Henry rifle is recognised as an icon of Americana, symbolising self-sufficiency and innovation. Modern replicas and reproductions of the original Henry rifle are available, continuing the legacy of fine lever-action gunsmithing.
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Loading the Henry rifle
To load the Henry rifle, follow these steps:
- Twist the end cap off the muzzle end of the tube and pull out the brass inner tube and spring. You can leave the inner tube in the magazine, but it may be unwieldy when loading rounds.
- Load rounds into the magazine tube through the loading port, ensuring they are dropped in base first. There are specific cuts for the rounds' rims, so shooters cannot load them backwards.
- Load up to 15 rounds of .22LR, 17 rounds of .22L, or 21 rounds of .22S into the tube.
- Insert the inner brass tube and twist to lock the assembly in place.
It is important to note that the Henry rifle has no external safety mechanism. To ensure safety, the rifle should be unloaded and either half-cocked or with the lever open when loading. Additionally, when loading, tilt the rifle at a slight angle to prevent cartridges from dropping straight down and potentially detonating a primer.
The Henry rifle is a testament to over 150 years of Henry rifles, trusted during the Civil War and the Great Expansion into the Wild West.
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The safety features of the Henry rifle
The Henry rifle, designed and introduced by Benjamin Tyler Henry in 1860, was the world's first practical, repeating lever-action rifle. It was highly desired during the American Civil War, and its performance in the field cemented the lever-action platform as America's most groundbreaking contribution to firearms design.
Half-Cock Notch: The Henry rifle has a half-cock notch on its hammer. Pulling the trigger and then releasing it while lowering the hammer puts it in the half-cocked position. This safety feature prevents the rifle from firing unintentionally. However, if the hammer is allowed to travel beyond the half-cocked position, it can rest against the firing pin, and a blow on the hammer could cause the rifle to discharge if a round is in the chamber.
Transfer Bar System: The Henry rifle employs a transfer bar system to prevent accidental discharges. When the trigger is pulled, a steel transfer bar is cammed upward into a vertical slot in the face of the hammer. As the hammer moves forward, the transfer bar remains in position, ensuring that the blow from the hammer is transferred to the firing pin only if the trigger is held back. If the trigger is released while manually lowering the hammer, the transfer bar drops to a safe position, preventing the firing pin from being struck.
Inertia-Driven Firing Pin: The Henry rifle's firing pin is inertia-driven, which adds an extra layer of safety. Even if the trigger is held back while lowering the hammer, the firing pin may not be long enough to reach the primer of a chambered round, thus reducing the risk of accidental discharge.
Trigger Block: The Henry rifle incorporates a trigger block safety mechanism. This feature prevents the trigger from being pulled unless the lever is completely closed. This design ensures that the rifle cannot be fired unless the lever is in the fully closed position, reducing the risk of accidental discharges.
Manual Safety (Newer Models): While the original Henry rifle lacked a manual safety, newer models introduced by Henry Repeating Arms have incorporated this feature. These modern replicas include a manual safety mechanism, providing an additional layer of protection against unintentional discharges.
Unloading and Loading Procedures: The Henry rifle's unloading and loading procedures contribute to its overall safety. To unload the rifle, the chamber is emptied, and the lever is left open. The inner magazine tube is then removed, and cartridges are carefully tilted out through the muzzle. This process ensures that the rifle is completely unloaded before reloading.
Warning and Recall Notices: Henry Repeating Arms has demonstrated a commitment to safety by issuing warnings and recalls when necessary. For example, in 2020, they recalled certain H015 lever-action rifles due to a potential safety issue. The company voluntarily initiated the recall to protect customers, offering free repairs and emphasizing the importance of safe firearm handling.
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The maintenance of the Henry rifle
The Henry rifle is a timeless classic, with a design that has endured for over 150 years. With its iconic lever-action and rich history, it's no wonder that many enthusiasts choose to care for and maintain their Henry rifles to keep them in excellent condition. Here are some tips for maintaining your Henry rifle:
Safety First: Always ensure that your Henry rifle is unloaded and safe before beginning any maintenance or cleaning. Follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Disassembly: For in-depth cleaning and maintenance, you may need to disassemble your Henry rifle. Refer to instructional videos or manuals to properly disassemble the rifle into its major components, such as the stock, receiver, barrel, and magazine tube.
Cleaning and Lubrication: Use high-quality gun cleaning solvents and lubricants specifically designed for firearms. Clean the barrel, action, and all metal parts, ensuring that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper care. Pay close attention to areas like the lever-action mechanism, as these parts require regular cleaning and lubrication to function smoothly and reliably.
Wood Care: If your Henry rifle has wooden stocks or handguards, ensure you care for the wood properly. Use a quality gun stock oil or wax to clean and protect the wood, preserving its natural beauty and preventing cracking or warping.
Reassembly: After cleaning and lubrication, carefully reassemble your Henry rifle, following the instructions in reverse. Ensure that all parts are securely fastened and functioning correctly.
Storage: Store your Henry rifle in a cool, dry place, preferably in a gun safe or secure cabinet. Ensure that the rifle is unloaded and stored separately from ammunition. Regularly inspect the rifle for any signs of corrosion or damage, especially if it is stored for extended periods.
Routine Maintenance: Establish a routine maintenance schedule for your Henry rifle. Depending on usage, a thorough cleaning and lubrication may be required after each shooting session or at regular intervals. Routine maintenance will help ensure the rifle's reliability and accuracy.
Original Henry Rifles: If you own an original Henry rifle from the 1860s, you may need to consult a gunsmith or firearms expert for specialised maintenance advice. These historic rifles have unique characteristics and may require different care procedures than modern reproductions.
Accessories and Modifications: When adding accessories or making modifications to your Henry rifle, ensure that you use high-quality parts and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Some accessories, like scopes or custom sights, may require professional installation.
Instructional Resources: Henry Repeating Arms provides instructional videos and resources on their website to guide you through the proper maintenance of your Henry rifle. These resources can be invaluable for learning how to care for your specific model.
Customer Support: If you have any questions or concerns about maintaining your Henry rifle, don't hesitate to contact Henry Repeating Arms' customer support. They are known for their award-winning customer service and are committed to ensuring your satisfaction.
By following these maintenance tips and guidelines, you can help ensure that your Henry rifle remains in excellent condition for years to come, preserving its performance, accuracy, and iconic American heritage.
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The price of the Henry rifle
The price of a Henry rifle depends on the model and its features. The Classic Lever Action .22 rifle, for example, has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $360, but its street price is around $275-$300. The Henry Lever Carbine Rifle has an MSRP of $375, but it can be found for around $300 at local gun shops.
The Golden Boy, one of Henry's most popular models, starts at around $400 for used models, with new models selling for just under $500. However, depending on the features, the price can go up to $1,000 or more.
The Big Boy Classic, another popular choice, starts at under $800 and can also reach $1,000 or more. The All-Weather rifle typically sells for about $800 to $900, while the Henry Survival Rifle can be found for around $300 or less.
Henry rifles are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and are made with a commitment to keeping their firearms affordable for all enthusiasts. With over 200 models to choose from, there is a Henry rifle to suit a variety of needs and budgets.
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Frequently asked questions
The Henry lever action is a classic Western-style lever-action rifle, famous for its use at the Battle of the Little Bighorn and for being the basis for the iconic Winchester rifle of the American Wild West. It was designed and introduced by Benjamin Tyler Henry in 1860.
The Henry lever action is 100% American-made and offers flawless function in cold, snow, and ice. It is versatile, easy to handle, and practical, with a smooth lever action and a surprisingly good trigger. It is also affordable, with a street price of around $275.
The Henry lever action has been criticised for its use of "cheap" materials and poor fit and finish. The sights are rudimentary, and there is no external safety mechanism.