Description
You’re on a backwoods trail in the Missouri Ozarks, the sun filtering through the hickories. A rustle in the underbrush—a squirrel for the stew pot or a target of opportunity on a fallen log. This is where the Henry Goldenboy .22 Magnum, Large Loop, 12 rd earns its keep. It’s a classic lever-action rifle chambered in .22 WMR, blending timeless aesthetics with modern utility. The large loop lever facilitates use with gloved hands, and the 12-round tubular magazine offers ample capacity for extended plinking or small game sessions. It’s a rifle built for real-world use, not just display.
Look, when it comes to a reliable, versatile rimfire, you need a tool that bridges nostalgia and function. The Goldenboy does exactly that. Its polished brass receiver and American walnut stock catch the eye, but the smooth lever throw and crisp trigger are what you remember after a day in the field. Chambered in the potent .22 Magnum, it delivers significantly more energy downrange than standard .22 LR, making it effective for varmints and small game at extended ranges. The large loop isn’t just for show—it allows for quick, positive manipulation whether you’re wearing winter gloves or just moving fast. At a weight of approximately 6.75 lbs and an overall length around 40 inches, it balances beautifully in the hands, pointing naturally. This rifle is drop-in ready for your next adventure, requiring no modification to perform reliably.
Key Features & Performance
The heart of this rifle is its action. The Henry Goldenboy lever action is renowned for its smooth, reliable cycling. The .22 Magnum cartridge, fed from a under-barrel tubular magazine, offers a flat trajectory and hard-hitting performance. You get 12 rounds on tap, which means more time shooting and less time reloading during a productive squirrel hunt or a long afternoon ringing steel. The large loop lever is a genuine functional upgrade, not an aesthetic gimmick. It provides ample clearance, reducing the chance of fumbling a follow-up shot.
That said, the rifle’s beauty is undeniable. The deep-blued octagonal barrel, polished brass receiver, and satin-finished walnut stock create a piece of functional art. But every element serves a purpose. The buckhorn rear and brass bead front sights are classic and effective for most shooting scenarios. For those wanting to mount optics, the receiver is grooved for standard .22 tip-off rings, making it compatible with popular rimfire scopes from brands like Vortex or Leupold. The rifle’s heft and balance soak up the modest recoil of the .22 WMR, making it a joy to shoot all day long.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 WMR (Magnum) |
| Magazine Capacity | 12 Rounds (Tubular) |
| Barrel Type | Octagonal, Blued Steel |
| Overall Length | ~40 inches |
| Weight | ~6.75 lbs |
| Action | Lever, Large Loop |
| Sights | Buckhorn Rear, Brass Bead Front |
Pros: Exceptional build quality and classic aesthetics. The large loop lever is highly practical. The .22 Magnum chambering offers greater range and power than .22 LR. The 12-round capacity is generous for a lever-action rimfire. The smooth action provides a satisfying and reliable shooting experience. It’s a rifle that holds its value.
Cons: The .22 WMR ammunition is more expensive than .22 LR. The rifle’s handsome finish can show scratches and handling marks with hard use—it’s a shooter, but not a beater. The fixed sights, while classic, may not suit all eyes for precision work.
Who Is This Rifle For?
This is the perfect rifle for the shooter who appreciates heritage but demands performance. It’s for the Missouri hunter seeking a respectful tool for small game. It’s for the landowner who needs a dependable varmint rifle that’s also a pleasure to handle. It’s for the firearms enthusiast who wants a beautifully crafted lever-action that can be used, not just admired. And it’s for anyone wanting to introduce a new shooter to the timeless mechanics and fun of a lever gun with the added versatility of the .22 Magnum round. Priced at $539.93, it represents a significant value in a world of mass-produced firearms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle shoot .22 Long Rifle ammunition in addition to .22 Magnum?
A: No. The Henry Goldenboy .22 Magnum is chambered exclusively for the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) cartridge. It is not safe to fire .22 LR, .22 Long, or .22 Short in this rifle. Always use the ammunition specified on the barrel.
Q: Is the large loop lever difficult to operate compared to a standard loop?
A: Not at all. The large loop is designed for ease of use, especially with gloves. The cycling motion remains smooth and intuitive. Some users find it allows for a faster, more positive grip when working the action quickly.
Q: Can a scope be mounted on this rifle?
A: Yes. The receiver features a grooved tip-off mount, compatible with most standard .22 rimfire scope rings. This allows you to easily mount a compact scope for improved precision at longer ranges while retaining the option to use the open sights.
Ready to own a piece of American firearm heritage that’s built for real use? The Henry Goldenboy .22 Magnum, Large Loop is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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