Description
The Henry Big Boy, .45 Colt, 16.5″ Barrel, 7rd, American Walnut, Case Hardened is a classic side-gate lever-action rifle. It blends traditional aesthetics with modern functionality, chambered in the versatile .45 Colt cartridge. With a 16.5-inch barrel and a seven-round capacity, it offers a compact, fast-handling package for hunting, sport, or ranch use, all at a price point that respects your budget.
Key Features
- Classic .45 Colt Chambering: A versatile, low-recoil round perfect for target shooting, plinking, and medium-game hunting.
- Compact 16.5″ Barrel: Provides excellent balance and maneuverability in brush or from a vehicle without sacrificing too much velocity.
- American Walnut Stock: Offers a traditional, handsome look that improves with age and use.
- Case Hardened Receiver: Features the distinctive, colorful finish that’s both durable and iconic of Old West craftsmanship.
- Side Loading Gate & Tube Magazine: Allows for safe, easy topping off of the 7-round capacity without fully unloading.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .45 Colt |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 34 inches |
| Capacity | 7 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Finish | Case Hardened Receiver, Blued Barrel |
Weighing in at roughly 7.5 lbs, this rifle has a solid, substantial feel that soaks up recoil but isn’t a burden to carry. The .45 Colt is a proven cartridge—look, it’s not a long-range magnum, but within 100 yards it’s plenty for deer or hogs with the right load, and it’s famously mild to shoot. That makes practice affordable and enjoyable. The rifle’s total length of about 34 inches means it’s easy to store in a standard safe or scabbard. Here’s the thing—when you compare the $892.06 price tag to other premium lever guns, the Henry Big Boy represents serious value. You get Henry’s legendary smooth action and customer service without the premium for some historical brand names.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is ideal for the shooter who wants a classic, no-nonsense lever action without a classic, sky-high price. It’s perfect for Missouri whitetail hunters in dense timber, a ranch or trail gun for predator control, or a casual plinker who appreciates history and mechanical elegance. It’s also a fantastic first centerfire rifle for a younger shooter due to its manageable recoil. Since it’s drop-in ready with no gunsmithing required, you can take it from the box to the range after a standard FFL transfer.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: The .45 Colt is low-cost to shoot compared to .44 Magnum, especially with cowboy loads. The side-gate loading is a huge modern convenience on a traditional platform. Henry’s fit and finish at this price are tough to beat. The shorter barrel makes it quick and handy. It’s a timeless design that holds its value well.
Cons: The .45 Colt is ballistically limited past 125 yards. The tubular magazine is slower to fully load than a detachable box. Sling swivels are not included, which is a minor budget consideration for hunters. While the walnut is beautiful, a synthetic stock would be more durable in harsh weather—a practical tradeoff for that classic look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot .45 Colt +P or .44 Magnum ammunition in this rifle?
A: No. This rifle is chambered specifically for standard .45 Colt (also called .45 Long Colt) ammunition. You must not use .44 Magnum rounds. While some modern +P loads exist, always consult your owner’s manual and ensure any ammunition is within SAAMI specifications for the firearm.
Q: Is this rifle suitable for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: Absolutely. With appropriate 250-grain or heavier expanding ammunition, the .45 Colt from a 16.5-inch barrel is an effective and ethical choice for whitetail deer at the typical woodland ranges found across Missouri. Its compact size is a major advantage in blinds or thick cover.
Q: Does it come with sights installed?
A: Yes, it comes equipped with a fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight and a brass bead front sight, providing a classic and effective sight picture. The receiver is also drilled and tapped for easy installation of a scout-style or Picatinny rail from brands like Henry or Skinner Sights if you prefer an optic.
This Henry Big Boy model delivers proven performance and classic style at a direct price. It’s a working rifle with heirloom-quality materials that won’t sit unused in a safe. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See if this lever-action fits your needs and budget.
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