Description
Picture this: you’re on a Missouri back forty, the sun’s low, and you need a rifle that bridges generations—something with the authority to handle a whitetail at 75 yards and the smooth, reliable action to make every shot count. That’s where the Henry Big Boy, .45 Colt, 20″ Barrel, 10rd, American Walnut, Case Hardened steps in. It’s a classic American lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt, featuring a 20-inch barrel, a 10-round tubular magazine, genuine American Walnut furniture, and a beautifully case-hardened steel receiver. This is a modern heirloom built for practical use.
When it comes to a rifle that must perform without fuss, the Henry Big Boy’s design is its greatest asset. The side-loading gate and smooth lever throw create a fast, intuitive rhythm for follow-up shots. The .45 Colt cartridge, while historically a pistol round, finds new life in this 20-inch barrel, gaining significant velocity and making it a potent choice for medium-game hunting or ranch work. At just over 8 pounds, it carries its weight in a balanced, shoulder-friendly package that points naturally. The rifle ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your local FFL transfer.
The heart of this rifle is its forged steel construction and meticulous fit. The case-hardened finish on the receiver isn’t just for show—it’s a durable, time-tested surface treatment that resists wear. The American Walnut stock is cut for a solid cheek weld and finished with a rich, satin oil that feels as good as it looks. Here’s the thing—this isn’t a safe queen. It’s a working rifle. The fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight and brass-bead front sight are simple, rugged, and effective. With a price of $872.31, you’re investing in a tool that requires no gunsmithing required to start running reliably right out of the box.
| Caliber | .45 Colt |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 38.5 Inches |
| Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Weight | 8.68 lbs |
| Stock | American Walnut |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: legendary Henry reliability, a smooth and fast action, and the versatile .45 Colt platform that pairs perfectly with revolvers like the Ruger Blackhawk for a unified cartridge system. The classic aesthetics are a bonus. The cons? Lever-actions have a learning curve for maximum speed. The tubular magazine reloads slower than a detachable box, and .45 Colt ammo can be more expensive than common rifle rounds if you don’t reload.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter who appreciates tradition on a practical budget, the landowner who needs a dependable tool for property management, and the shooter who values mechanical simplicity and timeless design. It’s for anyone who understands that a rifle is a long-term investment, not a disposable gadget. If you want a centerfire lever-action that handles everything from plinking to hunting without electronic aids, this is your candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle handle modern, hotter .45 Colt +P ammunition?
A: Henry Repeating Arms states the Big Boy is engineered for standard pressure .45 Colt loads. Always consult your owner’s manual and use ammunition that complies with SAAMI specifications for this firearm. For heavy hunting loads, verify the pressure rating is within standard .45 Colt parameters.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for a suppressor or muzzle device?
A: No, this specific model features a classic crowned barrel end. It is not threaded. Henry offers other models with threaded barrels if that is a primary requirement for your use case.
Q: What’s the real-world effective range for hunting with the .45 Colt in this rifle?
A: With the right load, the .45 Colt from a 20-inch barrel is effective on deer-sized game out to about 100 yards. Its low recoil and report make it a pleasure to shoot, but shot placement is always paramount—know your limits and practice accordingly.
Ready to add this piece of American firearm heritage to your collection? The Henry Big Boy in .45 Colt is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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