Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, and the guy next to you is cycling through a lever-action with a smooth, solid ka-chunk. Heads turn. It’s not just the sound—it’s the flash of polished brass and deep walnut under the Missouri sun. That’s the presence of a Henry Big Boy. But is this special Order of the Arrow edition a practical buy, or just a pretty wall-hanger? Let’s break down the value.
The Henry Big Boy Order of the Arrow Lever 44 Mag 20″ 10rd Walnut Stock/Brass is a commemorative lever-action rifle chambered in .44 Magnum. It features a 20-inch barrel, a 10-round tubular magazine, a genuine American walnut stock, and extensive brass receiver and furniture. This model celebrates the Order of the Arrow with unique, tasteful engravings, blending collectible appeal with serious hunting and shooting capability. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
So, what do you get for your money? First, you’re getting Henry’s legendary out-of-the-box smoothness. The action is famously slick, and this model is no gunsmithing required—it’s ready to run. The .44 Magnum/.44 Special chambering is a huge practical point. In a rifle, .44 Mag is a potent 150-yard deer cartridge, but you can also shoot softer, cheaper .44 Special for plinking. That versatility is a major bang-for-buck factor you don’t get with a .30-30. The 10-round tube capacity gives you plenty of shots before reloading, which is more than many lever guns offer.
The aesthetics are where the “Order of the Arrow” part comes in, and they’re done right. The brass receiver, buttplate, forend cap, and crescent buttplate aren’t just for show—they add heft and balance. The walnut stock has a classic, hand-filling profile. The laser-engraved Order of the Arrow markings are detailed but not gaudy, making it a commemorative piece you won’t hesitate to actually use in the field. At a price of $1205.73, you’re paying a premium over a standard Big Boy, but you’re getting unique artwork and that all-brass look.
| Caliber | .44 Magnum / .44 Special |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Metal Finish | Brass Receiver & Furniture |
| Sights | Adjustable Semi-Buckhorn Rear, Brass Bead Front |
Pros: Exceptional build quality and smooth action from Henry. The .44 caliber offers great versatility for both hunting and low-recoil practice. The commemorative engravings are tasteful and add collector value without sacrificing function. The 10-round capacity is generous for a lever gun. It’s a conversation starter that’s also a capable tool.
Cons: The brass requires regular polishing to maintain its luster if you care about that. It’s heavier than steel-receiver rifles, which can be a factor on long carries. The price point is above a basic working rifle—you’re paying for the looks and commemorative status. .44 Magnum ammo is more expensive than common rifle rounds like .30-30.
Who is this rifle really for? It’s for the shooter who values tradition and wants a single, beautiful, do-it-all rifle for Missouri whitetail, boar, or casual range days. It’s for the collector who appreciates Scouting heritage but demands a functional firearm. It’s also for the practical buyer who understands that a well-made lever action is a lifetime investment. If you just want a cheap deer slayer, a standard Big Boy or a used Marlin might save you cash. But if you want the one that gets handed down, this is a strong contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use .44 Special ammunition in this rifle?
A: Absolutely. This is a major benefit. You can fire both .44 Magnum and the milder, less expensive .44 Special, making practice much more affordable and pleasant.
Q: How does the price compare to a non-commemorative Henry Big Boy?
A: You can expect to pay a couple hundred dollars more for this Order of the Arrow edition versus a standard brass-framed Big Boy. You’re paying for the unique engravings and the collectible aspect. Whether that’s worth it depends on how much you value the special edition styling.
Q: Is the brass durable, or will it wear easily?
A: The brass is solid and durable for normal use. It will develop a patina with handling and may show minor scratches—this is normal for brass guns. If you want it to stay shiny, it will require regular cleaning and polishing, which is part of the traditional upkeep.
This Henry Big Boy Order of the Arrow model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If a blend of American craftsmanship, historical tribute, and versatile performance fits your needs, view the product page for more details and availability.
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