Description
Picture this: you’re in a Missouri oak stand, the air is crisp, and you need a rifle that bridges the gap between a classic hunting tool and a piece of functional art. That’s where the Henry Big Boy Special Wildlife, .45-70 Govt, 22″, Octagon Barrel, 4rd, Walnut/Blued comes in. It’s a lever-action rifle built for the hunter who appreciates tradition but demands modern reliability. I’ve put a few boxes of Hornady LeverEvolution through one, and it’s a different kind of hunting experience—deliberate, powerful, and deeply satisfying.
The Henry Big Boy Special Wildlife is a purpose-built hunting rifle chambered in .45-70 Government. It features a 22-inch octagon barrel, a 4-round tubular magazine, a genuine American walnut stock, and a richly blued steel receiver and barrel. It’s a modern iteration of a classic design, blending old-world craftsmanship with Henry’s renowned out-of-the-box reliability for serious hunters and collectors.
Let’s talk about that octagon barrel. It’s not just for looks, though it certainly turns heads. The 22-inch length gives you a great sight radius and balances the rifle perfectly between the hands. That extra steel adds a bit of forward weight, which I found helps steady your aim for offhand shots. The bluing is deep and rich, a classic finish that requires a bit more care than a matte coating but looks incredible in the field. The real star, for me, is the American walnut stock. It’s not just a stained piece of wood; it’s got a hand-rubbed oil finish that feels warm and solid in your grip. At just over 8.5 pounds, it’s substantial enough to soak up the .45-70’s recoil but not so heavy it’s a burden on a long stalk.
The action is pure Henry—smooth, tight, and reliable. The lever throw is intuitive, and after a short break-in period, it cycles like butter. This isn’t a rifle you’ll be working like a lightning-fast carbine; it’s a deliberate, powerful tool. The .45-70 Govt chambering is the whole point here. This is a cartridge with serious history and even more serious stopping power, making it a premier choice for hunting large game in North America. With a price of $1165.50, it sits in a sweet spot between a basic utility rifle and a high-end custom piece.
Specifications
| Caliber | .45-70 Government |
| Barrel | 22″ Octagon, Blued Steel |
| Capacity | 4+1 Round Tubular Magazine |
| Stock | American Walnut with Oil Finish |
| Overall Length | Approx. 41.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 8.68 lbs |
Pros: The fit and finish are outstanding for a production rifle—it truly feels like a step above. The .45-70 is a fantastically versatile and potent hunting round. The action is robust and famously reliable. It’s a rifle that inspires confidence and pride of ownership. Here’s the thing—it’s also drop-in ready; you can take it from the box to the range with zero fuss.
Cons: The .45-70 is an expensive round to feed for casual plinking. The tubular magazine reloads slowly compared to a box magazine. The beautiful blued finish and walnut will show scratches and dings from hard field use more than a synthetic-stocked rifle would. It’s a specialist’s tool, not a general-purpose beater.
So who is this for? It’s for the Missouri hunter who wants a dedicated, powerful rifle for whitetail, black bear, or even elk out west. It’s for the shooter who values the tactile experience of a lever gun and the heritage it represents. It’s also for the collector who wants a functional, beautiful firearm that will hold its value. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .45-70 too much for Missouri whitetail?
A: It’s certainly potent, but with modern managed-recoil loads from brands like Hornady or Remington, it’s very effective and can be tuned to the task. For larger game or longer shots, full-power loads are there when you need them.
Q: Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
A: Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope mount, making it compatible with standard bases for a Marlin 336 or similar. Many hunters opt for a low-power variable or a scout-style scope to maintain the classic lines.
Q: How does the octagon barrel affect performance?
A: Practically, it adds a slight amount of weight and rigidity, which can aid accuracy. The main benefits are the classic look and the excellent balance it provides—the flat sides help keep the rifle steady on a rest, too.
If you’re looking for a hunting rifle with soul, power, and impeccable build quality, the Henry Big Boy Special Wildlife deserves your close attention. See more details and check availability on our site.
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