Henry Single Shot Rifle: Reliable .45-70 Government Power

When a rifle needs to be simple, durable, and brutally effective at close to moderate ranges, a well-built single-shot platform still has a place at the ready. We draw from real-world experience and practical training to evaluate firearms that deliver predictable performance without excess complexity. For hunters, collectors, and shooters who value straightforward mechanics and heritage styling, this rifle hits a distinct sweet spot.

HENRY SINGLE SHOT STEEL RIFLE

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Overview: Purpose-Built Simplicity

The HENRY SINGLE SHOT STEEL RIFLE is built around time-tested simplicity: a classic single-shot action, quality American walnut stock, and modern safety features. At a retail price of $515.99, this model balances affordable entry cost with a rugged, serviceable design. It’s chambered in .45-70 Government and finished in a matte blued coating for a traditional look that resists glare and wear.

Key Features and How They Matter

Ambidextrous locking lever

The ambidextrous locking lever is a small but meaningful detail for shooters of either handedness. It provides consistent leverage when opening and closing the action and helps ensure smooth operation in field conditions. Whether you shoot left or right, the lever keeps manipulation intuitive.

Genuine American walnut stock and ergonomics

Henry’s use of genuine American walnut delivers classic aesthetics, a comfortable cheek weld, and long-term durability. The Steel model’s curved pistol grip and solid rubber recoil pad aid control and comfort when shooting the heavy-hitting .45-70 Government cartridge, particularly during follow-up shots or extended range sessions.

Action design: extractors, rebounding hammer, and interlock

Mechanically, this rifle is conservative and smart. Extractors are used to prevent unwanted ejection of brass, reducing the risk of hot brass striking the shooter or falling unpredictably in the field. The rebounding hammer limits the chances of accidental discharge from impact. The interlock system prevents the barrel from being opened or closed while the hammer is cocked—an important safety feature that prevents unsafe manipulation of the action.

Shooting the .45-70 Government: What to Expect

The .45-70 Government is a heavy, hard-hitting round with roots in 19th century service rifles. Today it’s prized for short-to-medium range stopping power, big-game hunting capability, and straightforward ballistics that are forgiving for shooters who prioritize terminal energy over long-range precision.

Applications

For hunters pursuing elk, moose, or other large game, the .45-70 offers deep penetration and strong frontal area energy. For ranchers and farm defense, it provides decisive stopping power inside typical engagement distances. It’s not a long-range precision cartridge by modern standards, but within its effective envelope it delivers reliable performance.

Ergonomics, Recoil, and Handling

At a modest overall weight and with a curved pistol grip plus a solid rubber recoil pad, the rifle mitigates a good portion of the felt recoil that a .45-70 can produce. The straightforward single-shot action promotes deliberate shot placement—ideal for hunters practicing conservative, accurate shooting rather than rapid fire. The matte blued finish reduces glare in daylight and maintains a clean, tactical appearance.

Field Use and Maintenance

Maintenance on a single-shot rifle is refreshingly simple: keep the bore clean, inspect extractors and locking surfaces, and ensure the rebounding hammer and interlock mechanisms operate freely. The matte blued finish tolerates normal wear; when cleaned and oiled, the steel surfaces will remain serviceable for decades. The walnut stock should be preserved with occasional oiling if used heavily in wet or dusty conditions.

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Accessories and Practical Upgrades

Sights and optics

This rifle is most commonly used with iron sights or a low-power optic. Given the cartridge and intended ranges, a compact scope or a red dot with a quick-mount system provides flexibility for hunting and target work. Ensure any optic mount does not interfere with the action’s opening and closing.

Ammo selection

Choose ammunition appropriate for your intended use. For hunting, premium, controlled-expansion rounds in appropriate weights will maximize terminal performance. For range practice, more economical loads still provide accurate training while reducing cost-per-round.

Why This Model Stands Out

Henry has a reputation for crafting reliable, American-made firearms with a focus on honest function and classic styling. The HENRY SINGLE SHOT STEEL RIFLE stands out for combining that heritage with safety-minded modern engineering: extractors to control brass, a rebounding hammer, and an interlock system for safe handling. The affordable price point of $515.99 makes this an accessible entry into big-bore single-shot platforms without sacrificing meaningful features.

Buying Notes and Final Thoughts

If you’re shopping for a simple, robust single-shot rifle with reliable safety features and the punch of .45-70 Government, this rifle is worth evaluating. It’s a purpose-driven tool for the hunter or outdoorsman who wants straightforward mechanics, a tactile walnut stock, and the kind of stopping power that settles encounters quickly. Clicking the links will take you to the product page where you can confirm current stock and purchase directly through the retailer.

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People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.