Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, the sun’s out, and you’re looking for a day of affordable, low-recoil plinking that feels a bit more classic than a polymer rifle. You want something that looks great on the rack and feels even better in the hands, without breaking the bank. That’s the exact scenario where the Henry Golden Boy Lever 17 HMR shines. It’s a rifle that trades tactical utility for pure, unadulterated shooting joy, offering a premium look at a surprisingly accessible price point.
The Henry Golden Boy Lever 17 HMR 20″ Barrel, American Walnut Stock Blued, 11 rd is a classic-styled lever-action rifle chambered in the flat-shooting .17 HMR rimfire cartridge. It features a 20-inch blued steel barrel, a genuine American walnut stock with a curved brass buttplate, and a tubular magazine holding 11 rounds. This rifle blends traditional aesthetics with modern rimfire performance for target shooting and small game hunting.
Let’s talk about the value proposition first. At $573.40, this Golden Boy sits in a sweet spot. You’re getting Henry’s renowned fit and finish—the deep, rich bluing on the octagonal barrel and receiver, the polished brass-like alloy receiver, and that beautifully finished walnut stock—for hundreds less than many centerfire lever guns. It’s a showpiece that doesn’t demand to be a safe queen. The .17 HMR cartridge itself is a big part of the budget-friendly appeal. Compared to centerfire ammo, .17 HMR offers excellent accuracy and extended range for varmint control, but at a per-round cost that lets you shoot more for your money. You get the satisfying mechanics of a lever action without the punishing cost of feeding it.
The key features are where this rifle earns its keep. That 20-inch octagonal barrel isn’t just for looks; it adds stability and weight up front for steadier offhand shots. The American walnut stock is cut with a classic crescent buttplate and a sleek forearm, providing a secure and traditional grip. The side ejection and drilled-and-tapped receiver mean mounting a scope is straightforward—no gunsmithing required for a standard setup. The smooth lever throw is a Henry hallmark, and the .17 HMR’s light recoil makes follow-up shots quick and easy. The tubular magazine holds a generous 11 rounds, which is plenty for a leisurely session at the bench or a walk in the field.
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Barrel Length | 20″ Octagonal |
| Overall Length | 38.5″ (approx.) |
| Weight | 6.75 lbs (approx.) |
| Magazine Capacity | 11 Rounds (tubular) |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Brasslite Receiver |
Here’s the thing—every gun is a tradeoff. The pros are clear: stunning traditional aesthetics, Henry’s reliable lever-action mechanics, low-cost per-shot fun, and minimal recoil. It’s a fantastic introduction to lever guns or a dedicated small-game rifle. The cons are just part of the package. The .17 HMR, while accurate, is a rimfire cartridge best suited for targets and varmints up to coyote size with proper shot placement. The crescent buttplate can be less comfortable during extended shooting sessions compared to a modern rubber pad. And while the price is great for what it is, it’s still an investment compared to a basic bolt-action .22.
So who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the shooter who appreciates classic firearm design and wants a beautiful, functional piece for the collection that won’t sit idle due to ammo costs. It’s ideal for Missouri landowners managing pests like groundhogs or raccoons with style. It’s also a superb choice for a new shooter you want to introduce to the manual-of-arms of a lever action without the noise and recoil of a .30-30. The rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable laws and requiring an FFL transfer for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use .17 HM2 ammunition in this rifle?
A: No, you cannot. This rifle is chambered specifically for the .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire) cartridge. The .17 HM2 is a different, less powerful cartridge. Always use only ammunition that matches the caliber stamped on your firearm’s barrel.
Q: Is the receiver ready for a scope mount?
A: Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped, making it compatible with standard Henry Golden Boy scope base mounts, like those from Warne or Henry Repeating Arms themselves. This allows for easy optic installation to take full advantage of the .17 HMR’s accuracy.
Q: How does the .17 HMR compare to a .22 WMR for this type of rifle?
A: The .17 HMR generally offers a flatter trajectory and less wind drift at longer ranges (100+ yards) compared to the .22 WMR, making it slightly more precise for target shooting. The .22 WMR hits with a bit more blunt force at closer ranges. Both are excellent cartridges; the choice often comes down to specific use and ammo availability.
If the idea of a classic, well-made lever-action that’s as fun to shoot as it is to look at fits your needs, the Henry Golden Boy in .17 HMR represents a solid value. See the full details and availability on our site.
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