Description
The Henry Golden Boy .17 HMR, 20″ Barrel, Large Loop, American Walnut, Brasslite, 12rd is a classic lever-action rifle chambered in the flat-shooting .17 HMR cartridge. It combines timeless aesthetics with modern performance, featuring a large loop lever for gloved use, a durable Brasslite receiver, and a handsome American walnut stock. This rifle offers a unique blend of old-world craftsmanship and varmint-hunting efficiency at a practical price point.
Key Features
- Budget-Friendly Performance: Delivers the iconic Henry look and reliable function without the premium cost of a full-brass receiver.
- Flat-Shooting .17 HMR: The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire caliber provides a laser-like trajectory, minimal drop, and explosive terminal performance on small game and varmints out to 150+ yards.
- Large Loop Lever: Designed for easy operation with gloves, making it a practical choice for hunting in cold Missouri winters.
- Classic American Walnut Stock: Offers a traditional, handsome look and a solid, comfortable feel that improves with age.
- Generous 12-Round Capacity: The tubular magazine holds more rounds than many bolt-action .17 HMRs, allowing for longer shooting sessions without frequent reloading.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 38.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.75 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 12 Rounds (Tubular) |
| Receiver Finish | Brasslite (Brass-Plated Steel) |
Here’s the thing—the Brasslite finish is the key to the value proposition. It gives you the classic, warm look of a brass receiver but uses a brass-plated steel alloy to keep the cost down. The rifle weighs in at a manageable 6.75 pounds, making it easy to carry on long walks. The 20-inch barrel provides a good balance between sight radius and maneuverability. At $552.52, this rifle sits in a sweet spot between basic utility rifles and high-end collector pieces. It’s drop-in ready for your favorite optics, with a grooved receiver that accepts standard .22 tip-off rings for scopes from brands like Simmons or Vortex. This model ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Golden Boy is ideal for the budget-conscious shooter who wants more than just a tool. It’s for the Missouri varmint hunter who appreciates a classic look but needs modern ballistic performance. It’s a great choice for a new shooter looking for a high-quality, low-recoil first rifle that feels special. Collectors on a budget who admire the lever-action lineage will also find it appealing. The .17 HMR round itself is perfect for dispatching pests like prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and raccoons with authority and precision.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional value for a rifle with this fit and finish. The .17 HMR is incredibly accurate and fun to shoot. The large loop and smooth lever action are both functional and satisfying. The American walnut stock provides a premium feel often missing in this price range. High capacity means less time reloading.
Cons: .17 HMR ammunition is more expensive than .22 LR. The Brasslite, while attractive, isn’t solid brass—a tradeoff for the lower price. Lever actions can be slightly slower to operate than bolt-actions for precise follow-up shots. The tubular magazine requires loading one round at a time through the gate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Brasslite, and how does it hold up?
A: Brasslite is Henry’s term for a steel receiver with a durable brass plating. It looks nearly identical to solid brass but is much more affordable and resistant to denting. It will develop a patina over time, which many owners feel adds character.
Q: Can I use .17 HM2 or .22 LR ammunition in this rifle?
A: No. This rifle is chambered specifically for .17 HMR only. Using any other caliber, including .17 HM2 (which is physically similar but less powerful), is dangerous and can cause catastrophic firearm failure. Always use only the ammunition specified on your rifle’s barrel.
Q: Is the large loop lever interchangeable with a standard loop?
A: Typically, yes. The large loop levers on Henry rifles are often designed to be swapped with standard-sized loops if you prefer a different look or feel. However, this may require minor gunsmithing or specific parts from Henry Repeating Arms.
If you’re looking for a distinctive, accurate, and practical lever-action that delivers serious bang-for-your-buck, the Henry Golden Boy in .17 HMR deserves a close look. Check availability for this model at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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