The pull of a classic lever action rifle is part history, part mechanics, and all character. For shooters who appreciate time-tested design, clean lines, and a satisfying cycling motion, a rifle that honors the Old West while delivering modern reliability is a rare find. We look at one such rifle that has captured the attention of plinkers, small-game hunters, and collectors alike.
HENRY GOLDEN BOY — a varnished, brass-accented lever gun that wears its heritage proudly while offering practical performance on the range and in the field. Shop this product
Design & Aesthetics — Old-West Charm, Modern Fit
From its blued octagonal 20″ barrel to the gleaming Brasslite receiver and brass buttplate, the HENRY GOLDEN BOY delivers an aesthetic that’s faithful to Benjamin Tyler Henry’s original lever designs. The American walnut stock offers warm grain and a classic profile, while the brass barrel band and Brasslite accents create visual contrast that makes this rifle stand out on a bench or in a rack.
Key visual and tactile features
The octagonal barrel isn’t just for looks — it carries historical authenticity and contributes to a distinct balance and feel. The adjustable buckhorn-style rear sight paired with a beaded front sight preserves that Old-West sight picture while remaining practical for quick acquisition out to the ranges where rimfire calibers perform best.
Specifications That Matter
Understanding what the rifle carries on paper helps determine how it will perform for you. The HENRY GOLDEN BOY is a lever action rimfire with the following notable specs:
- Action: Lever Action
- Barrel: 20″ blued octagonal (youth model has a 16.25″ barrel)
- Stock: American walnut with brass buttplate
- Receiver: Brasslite receiver with brass barrel band
- Sights: Adjustable buckhorn rear and beaded front
- Magazine: Tubular magazine; capacity varies by caliber
- Weight: Approximately 6.75 lb
- Overall Length: 38.5″
- Price: $537.99
Caliber Choices & Practical Uses
The HENRY GOLDEN BOY is offered in a range of rimfire calibers. Each brings its own benefits, suited to different applications:
.22 LR — The Versatile Plinker and Small-Game Option
The .22 LR version holds 16 rounds in the tubular magazine and is the go-to for target shooting, informal plinking, and small game. Lightweight ammunition, minimal recoil, and economical cost-per-shot make the .22 LR perfect for extended practice sessions and training new shooters. The rifle’s balance and 20″ barrel help extract consistent velocity and accuracy from standard .22 loads.
22 Short & Capacity Considerations
When chambered for 22 Short, this rifle offers a 21-round capacity. Shorter cartridges are quiet and low-recoil, useful for very close-range pest control or backyard plinking where noise sensitivity is a factor. The tubular magazine design makes it easy to load sequential rounds and gives the rifle its classic silhouette.
22 Magnum & 17 HMR — Extended Reach
The 22MAG and 17HMR variants expand the rifle’s effective range and terminal performance for varmint work. These calibers typically hold 12 rounds in the tube and provide flatter trajectories and more energy on target compared with .22 LR. For hunters needing an affordable, lightweight lever gun to work cottontails, ground squirrels, or prairie dogs at longer distances, these chamberings are attractive options.
Handling, Balance, and Field Use
At roughly 6.75 pounds, the HENRY GOLDEN BOY carries a reassuring heft that helps steady offhand shots. That weight, combined with the long forend and balanced center of gravity, makes the rifle a natural pointer — you’ll find it tracks smoothly and returns to target quickly after a shot. The lever action cycles with the distinctive, smooth Henry feel; it opens and closes with a slickness that longtime lever fans will recognize instantly.
Youth Model — Accessible for Young Shooters
For families introducing younger shooters to safe firearm handling, the youth model with a 16.25″ barrel and a 13″ length of pull reduces reach and improves ergonomics without sacrificing the classic look. The brass barrel band and full semblance of the adult design give a compact shooter the same visual and operational experience in a more manageable package.
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Fit & Finish — Why Craftsmanship Counts
Any shooting enthusiast will notice the fit and finish right away. The mating of the walnut to the metal components is tight, and the brass highlights are polished to a traditional shine. For those who appreciate craftsmanship on a modest budget, the listed price of $537.99 represents a balance between cosmetic quality and practical performance.
Sights and Accuracy
The adjustable buckhorn rear sight provides a period-correct aiming reference and allows the shooter to dial in windage and elevation for consistent groups. The beaded front sight is quick to pick up for rapidly acquired shots in close quarters. Combined with the barrel length and platform stability, the setup yields capable accuracy for the intended rimfire roles.
Who Should Consider the HENRY GOLDEN BOY?
If you value classic styling, a satisfying lever action, and a rifle that is equally at home on a ranch bench or a family range day, this model is worth a look. It’s ideal for plinkers, small-game hunters, collectors who appreciate period-correct design, and families introducing responsible shooters to lever-action mechanics. The youth model makes it accessible to younger shooters who need a shorter length of pull without losing the characteristic Henry experience.
Final Thoughts from Two Experienced Shooters
We both agree: the HENRY GOLDEN BOY is more than nostalgia. It’s a well-executed lever action that marries approachable performance with genuine craftsmanship. Whether chambered in .22 LR for economical range time or in 22MAG/17HMR for extended varmint work, the rifle offers a satisfying combination of balance, sighting, and smooth cycling — and it does so at a reasonable price point of $537.99.
Ready to add a classic lever action to your collection? Shop this product
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.
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