Description
The Henry Big Boy Deluxe Lever Rifle, .357 Mag, 20″, 10rd, Engraved 3rd Edition is a premium, limited-production lever-action rifle that blends classic American craftsmanship with modern utility. It’s a highly decorative yet fully functional firearm chambered in the versatile .357 Magnum, featuring intricate scrollwork engraving, a 20-inch octagonal barrel, and a 10-round capacity. This model represents a significant step up in finish and collectibility from the standard Big Boy, offering a tangible piece of firearms artistry that’s also a practical shooter. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features
- Intricate Scrollwork Engraving (3rd Edition): Covers the receiver, lever, and buttplate for a true heirloom appearance.
- Versatile .357 Magnum/.38 Special Chambering: Shoot affordable .38 Special for practice or full-power .357 for hunting/defense.
- 20″ Octagonal Barrel: Provides a classic look, improved balance, and increased sight radius.
- 10-Round Tubular Magazine: Offers ample capacity for range days or field use.
- American Walnut Stock: High-grade, hand-finished wood with a gloss finish and checkering.
- Brass Receiver and Buttplate: Adds significant weight and a distinctive, warm visual appeal.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches (Octagonal) |
| Overall Length | 38.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 8.68 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds (.357 Mag) |
| Finish | Brass Receiver, Blued Barrel |
Here’s the thing—at $1591.50, this isn’t your budget plinker. You’re paying a premium for the engraving and the limited-edition status. The value proposition is clear: you get a stunning display piece that requires no gunsmithing required to be a reliable, accurate rifle right out of the box. The weight, coming in at nearly 8.7 pounds, soaks up recoil beautifully, making .357 Magnum feel like a mild .38 Special. That heft is a tradeoff; it’s not a rifle you’ll want to carry all day in the woods, but it’s incredibly steady offhand or from a bench.
Who Is This Rifle For?
This rifle targets a specific buyer. It’s for the collector who appreciates traditional engraving and wants a functional showpiece. It’s also ideal for the lever-gun enthusiast who wants the pinnacle of Henry’s brass-frame series without stepping into custom-shop prices. Finally, it suits the practical shooter who wants one beautiful, do-everything rifle for the ranch, casual hunting, or target shooting, and values the .357 Magnum’s ability to share ammo with a revolver like a Smith & Wesson 686 or Ruger GP100.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The engraving and finish are the main attractions, offering unmatched aesthetics in its price range. The .357/.38 Spl chambering is a huge practical benefit for cost-effective training. Henry’s reputation for smooth actions and excellent customer service is well-earned. The rifle is simply robust and reliable.
Cons: The price is steep compared to a standard Big Boy. The brass receiver requires more frequent polishing to maintain its luster. That 20-inch barrel and solid construction make it heavy—a consideration for extended carry. You’re investing in art, so every scratch might sting a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in this rifle?
A: Absolutely. That’s one of the biggest value points. You can practice cheaply with .38 Special and then load .357 Magnum for serious work. The action cycles both cartridges flawlessly.
Q: Is the engraving just on one side?
A: No, the 3rd Edition scrollwork engraving covers both sides of the receiver, the lever, and the buttplate, providing a fully encompassing decorative treatment.
Q: How does this Deluxe model differ from the regular Henry Big Boy?
A: The differences are primarily cosmetic but significant. The Deluxe features the extensive engraving, a higher-grade walnut stock with more elaborate checkering, and a glossy finish. Mechanically, it’s the same reliable rifle, but the fit and finish are elevated to heirloom quality.
Look, if you want the most cost-effective .357 lever gun, a standard model exists. But if you want a rifle that turns heads at the range and represents a lasting investment in American gunmaking—a piece where the craftsmanship is part of the utility—this Engraved 3rd Edition makes a compelling case. Its 10-round capacity and versatile caliber ensure it’s never just a safe queen. Consider if the premium for art is worth it for your safe and your shooting style.
View this limited-availability piece on our site for more details and availability.
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