Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, and the guy next to you is cycling a bolt-action with all the speed of a sleepy sloth. You shoulder your rifle, and with a smooth, practiced roll of your wrist, you’ve sent three rounds downrange before he’s chambered his second. That’s the practical advantage of a lever gun. It’s not just nostalgia—it’s a fast-handling, reliable tool that makes every shot count. So, what is the Henry Big Boy Lever Action Rifle, .45 Long Colt, Large Loop? It’s a classic American side-gate lever-action rifle chambered in the potent .45 Long Colt cartridge, featuring a signature large loop lever for gloved-hand operation and a timeless, no-nonsense design built for real-world use. For the budget-conscious shooter, it represents a significant value in a market where lever actions often climb well over a thousand dollars.
Here’s the thing—at $845.90, the Henry Big Boy sits in a sweet spot. You’re getting Henry’s renowned fit and finish without the premium price tag of some custom shop models. The action is famously smooth right out of the box, with no gunsmithing required to achieve that reliable, slick-cycling feel. The large loop lever isn’t just for show; it provides ample clearance for winter gloves, making it a practical choice for Missouri hunters in a late-season deer blind. The side-loading gate is a modern nod to tradition, allowing you to top off the magazine without cycling the action. This rifle is built on a solid steel frame, giving it a substantial heft that soaks up recoil and inspires confidence—a noticeable difference from some alloy-framed competitors.
Chambered in .45 Long Colt, this Big Boy bridges history and utility. It’s a classic cowboy cartridge that’s found new life as a capable woods round for deer and black bear at moderate ranges. With a magazine capacity of 10 rounds, you have plenty of firepower for a day at the range or in the field. The 20-inch octagonal barrel isn’t just for looks; it adds to the rifle’s stability and classic aesthetic. When you shoulder it, the balance is immediately apparent—the weight is distributed so it points naturally, making follow-up shots quick and intuitive. That said, the tradeoff for that solid feel is weight. The rifle tips the scales at approximately 8.68 lbs, so it’s not the lightest option for long stalks, but that mass makes the .45 Colt’s recoil feel like a gentle push.
Specifications
| Caliber | .45 Long Colt (LC) |
| Barrel Length | 20″ Octagonal |
| Overall Length | 38.5″ |
| Weight | 8.68 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Action | Lever Action with Side Gate |
Pros: Outstanding value for a U.S.-made lever gun. The .45 LC is effective for hunting and cheaper to shoot than .44 Mag in many cases. The large loop and side gate offer genuine functional benefits. Henry’s customer service is legendary. The rifle’s heft manages recoil superbly. Cons: It’s a heavy rifle, which could be a drawback for some hunters. The .45 LC is not a long-range cartridge. Sights are basic but functional—an upgrade might be desired for precision work.
Who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the Missouri hunter who wants a reliable, fast-handling rifle for timbered deer country. It’s for the shooter who appreciates mechanical elegance and wants a durable, heirloom-quality firearm without a four-figure price tag. It’s also a fantastic choice for Cowboy Action Shooting competitors or anyone who simply enjoys the tactile satisfaction of a well-made lever action. The rifle is compatible with a wide range of .45 LC ammunition from brands like Winchester, Remington, and Hornady, giving you plenty of options for practice and hunting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use .45 Colt +P ammunition in this Henry?
A: Henry Repeating Arms states their firearms are safe with SAAMI-spec ammunition. While some modern .45 Colt “Ruger-only” loads exist at higher pressures, it is not recommended to use +P or non-standard ammunition in the Big Boy. Stick to standard-pressure .45 Long Colt loads for reliable and safe operation.
Q: Is the large loop lever difficult to operate compared to a standard loop?
A: Not at all. The larger arc requires a slightly wider hand motion, but it becomes second nature quickly. The major benefit is the clearance for gloves, and many users find it just as fast to cycle once they’re accustomed to it.
Q: Does this model have a threaded barrel for a suppressor?
A: No, this specific model with the octagonal barrel does not come threaded. Henry offers other models with threaded barrels, but the classic Big Boy Large Loop is designed in the traditional style. An FFL transfer is required for all firearm purchases, including this one.
This Henry Big Boy represents a serious value in the lever-action world, blending proven performance with a price that makes sense. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If you’re looking for a dependable, classic rifle that won’t break the bank, this .45 Colt is ready to work.
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