Description
The Henry Big Boy Cowboy Edition II .45 Colt 20″ Octagon Barrel Walnut Stock Hand Painted is a meticulously crafted lever-action rifle designed for the traditionalist. It blends classic 19th-century cowboy aesthetics with modern Henry Repeating Arms reliability, chambered in the timeless .45 Colt cartridge. This isn’t a wall hanger—it’s a smooth-shooting, accurate rifle built for the range, the field, and the heart.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of .45 Colt through this model, and the experience is pure Americana. The action slicked up nicely after the first box, and the balance of that 20-inch octagon barrel is just perfect. Here’s what makes it stand out on the rack.
- Hand-Painted Receiver: The detailed, hand-applied scrollwork and floral patterns on the brass-look alloy receiver are stunning. No two are exactly alike, giving you a truly unique firearm.
- American Walnut Stock: The straight-grip stock and forend are cut from genuine walnut, finished to a deep, rich luster that feels great in the hands and looks even better.
- Classic Lever-Action Mechanics: The smooth, short-throw lever action is iconic. It’s a satisfying, manual operation that connects you directly to the shooting process.
- Side Loading Gate & Tubular Magazine: Loads one round at a time through the traditional brass-plated loading gate, feeding into a under-barrel tube magazine. It holds up to 10 rounds of .45 Colt, giving you plenty of shots before a reload.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Colt |
| Barrel | 20″ Octagon, Blued Steel |
| Overall Length | 38.5″ |
| Weight | 8.68 lbs |
| Capacity | 10+1 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut |
Weighing in at 8.68 lbs, the heft is substantial but not cumbersome—it soaks up recoil and makes off-hand shooting steady. The rifle ships with a set of fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear and brass bead front sights that are dead simple to use. It’s drop-in ready for a scope if you want, using weaver-style bases that are compatible with brands like Warne or Leupold, but honestly, the irons are half the fun.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Henry is for the shooter who values heritage as much as performance. It’s perfect for the CAS (Cowboy Action Shooting) competitor who demands authenticity and reliability. It’s for the hunter who wants a brush gun with character for whitetail in Missouri’s timber. And it’s absolutely for the collector or enthusiast who appreciates fine craftsmanship—a functional piece of art. Look, if you just want a black plastic rifle, this isn’t it. This is for someone who enjoys the ritual of shooting, the smell of Hoppe’s No. 9, and the solid clunk of working the lever.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The fit and finish are outstanding—Henry doesn’t cut corners. The action is incredibly smooth and reliable right out of the box. The .45 Colt cartridge is versatile, mild-recoiling, and has great historical charm. That hand-painted receiver is a conversation starter every single time.
Cons: That beautiful octagon barrel and walnut come at a weight penalty; it’s not a rifle you’ll want to carry 10 miles up a mountain. .45 Colt ammo is more expensive and less common than, say, .357 Magnum. And at $1200.56, it’s an investment in craftsmanship, not just a tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use .45 Colt +P or hot loads in this rifle?
A: I wouldn’t recommend it. The Henry Big Boy is engineered for standard-pressure .45 Colt ammunition. Stick to SAAMI-spec loads for longevity and safety. It handles everything from mild cowboy action loads to standard hunting rounds just fine.
Q: Is the receiver real brass?
A: The receiver is a brass-look aluminum alloy, which keeps the weight manageable and eliminates tarnishing. The finish and hand-painted details are incredibly convincing and durable.
Q: How does it handle with optics?
A: Very well. The receiver is drilled and tapped, and it comes with a Weaver 63B base installed. Adding a compact scope like a Leupold FX-II 2.5x20mm is straightforward and maintains the rifle’s classic lines. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases, as always, which we handle seamlessly.
This Henry Big Boy Cowboy Edition II is more than a rifle; it’s a direct link to a classic American shooting tradition, built with modern precision. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states. If the blend of art, history, and solid performance speaks to you, see our current inventory and ordering details on the product page.
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