Some tools aren’t just built—they’re forged in grit, history, and purpose. Lever guns belong to that tribe. They shoulder fast, point naturally, and deliver a kind of mechanical honesty you feel the moment the action cycles. If you’re looking for a compact lever-action that blends classic Hollywood cool with serious, real-world utility, this is where the story gets good.
HENRY BIG BOY MARE’S LEG SIDE GATE
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The Mare’s Leg owes its legend to Steve McQueen in “Wanted: Dead or Alive,” but Henry brings it back with modern precision and the kind of materials that earn respect on the range and on the wall. Chambered in .45 Colt with a 5-round capacity, this lever-action pistol balances heritage and performance without trying too hard. It’s compact, fast, and absolutely purpose-built.
What sets it apart? The brass-plated receiver catches your eye first—classic and unapologetic. Then you notice the American Walnut stock, the octagon-profile barrel, and that generous large-loop lever. It’s the same formula that made the old-school guns great, refined by Henry and tuned for shooters who appreciate both speed and feel from a pistol-length platform.
Why the .45 Colt Makes Sense Here
The .45 Colt is a workhorse—soft-shooting with cowboy loads, stout with modern defensive and hunting offerings. In a pistol-length lever gun like this, recoil is predictable and manageable, especially with the extra mass of the brass receiver and the rigidity from the octagonal barrel profile. If you’re running heavier bullets, the platform’s balance helps keep the muzzle stable shot to shot. For range sessions, steel ringing stands out with authority. For ranch or trail carry, the cartridge’s versatility is a real asset when paired with the fast-cycling action.
Speed Meets Control: Large Loop + Side Gate
That large lever loop isn’t just a style cue—it’s functional. With gloves, with cold hands, with adrenaline in play, you can still drive the action without hesitation. The side-loading gate is another smart, modern touch. Top off on the fly without unloading; keep the pistol fed and ready. For anyone who’s run a traditional lever gun with only a tube load, the side gate is a clear upgrade for practical handling and time on target.
Brass, Walnut, and an Octagon Barrel
There’s a reason Henry’s brass guns turn heads. The brass-plated receiver isn’t just handsome; it adds a bit of forward weight that settles the gun in the hands. American Walnut furniture rounds out the package with the kind of warmth and durability that synthetic stocks just can’t match. The octagon-profile barrel adds rigidity and a classic sighting plane. Together, these elements give you a lever-action pistol that swings quick, tracks steady, and feels like it’ll outlast trends by a few generations.
Capacity, Handling, and Practical Roles
Five rounds of .45 Colt deliver a reliable rhythm: cycle, press, repeat. In close, the compact footprint clears tight spaces and gets on target in a hurry. This is where a lever-action pistol shines—trail gun, ranch companion, truck vault, or range piece that just makes you smile every time you run it. The action encourages clean fundamentals, and the short overall length reduces snag potential while still providing enough sight radius for confident hits inside practical distances.
From Screen Legend to Modern Workpiece
Henry didn’t try to reinvent the legend. They refined it. The Mare’s Leg format grew up on screen, but this one is built to be used. The machining is clean where it counts, the cycling is fast and positive, and the ergonomics feel natural whether you drive it from a compressed ready or bring it up from a sling. It’s a compact lever with the heart of a full-size rifle—simple, dependable, and faster than most expect when run hard.
Category Context: Lever Action Done Right
In the Lever Action category, there are a lot of choices—full-length rifles, carbines, and collector pieces. This one lives in its own lane: a pistol-format lever that’s light, nimble, and authentic. The brass receiver and octagon barrel separate it from blacked-out, modernized builds, while the side gate and large loop bring it up to speed for real use. If you’re building a versatile collection, this checks the “classic with purpose” box with style.
Range Notes from a Practical Shooter
Mounting, Sights, and Manipulation
Shoulder the pistol like a compact carbine or hold it out in a modified two-hand stance—the gun adapts. The sight picture over that octagon barrel is crisp and intuitive. With standard .45 Colt loads, sight lift is minimal, and the return to point of aim is quick. The lever throw is smooth; with the large loop, cycling is confident even when you’re working from unconventional positions.
Ammo Selection
For training, cowboy action loads keep recoil soft so you can work transitions and cadence. For field carry, modern .45 Colt defensive or hunting loads punch above their weight at the distances this platform is built for. Always confirm point of impact—different bullet weights can shift your zero more than you’d expect out of a short barrel.
Fit, Finish, and the Henry Standard
Henry’s reputation matters. Their lever guns are known for reliability, clean cycling, and wood-to-metal fit that’s tight without being precious. This model carries that standard. The brass receiver plates are polished, the walnut is properly finished, and the action feels like it wants to be run. At 949.99, you’re paying for that blend of craftsmanship and function—and it shows up every time the lever closes.
Who It’s For
- Collectors who want a true Mare’s Leg with modern build quality
- Ranch and trail users who value a compact, quick-handling lever gun in a proven caliber
- Range shooters who appreciate mechanical feedback and the rhythm of a lever-action pistol
- Anyone who believes a firearm can be both heritage-rich and absolutely usable
Care and Upkeep
Lever guns reward maintenance. Keep the action lightly lubricated, especially around the bolt and lever pivot points. Wipe the brass receiver with a soft cloth after handling to maintain that shine. The walnut furniture will last a lifetime with occasional oiling. Feed quality .45 Colt ammunition, and the platform will return the favor with predictable performance.
Key Specs at a Glance
- Caliber: .45 Colt
- Capacity: 5 rounds
- Receiver: Brass-plated
- Stock: American Walnut
- Barrel: Octagon-profile
- Loading: Side-loading gate with tubular magazine
- Lever: Large loop for gloved or rapid use
- Price: 949.99
- Category: Lever Action
Final Take
There’s a certain confidence that comes from running a lever-action pistol that responds instantly to clean inputs. The HENRY BIG BOY MARE’S LEG SIDE GATE is exactly that: fast, balanced, and built with materials that matter. It’s as at home in a well-used scabbard as it is on the firing line, and it carries the kind of presence only a brass-and-walnut Henry can pull off.
If you’re ready to add a compact, brass-framed .45 Colt lever gun to your kit—one that respects the past while earning its keep today—this one deserves a spot on your short list.
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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