Description
Picture this: you’re walking a fence line at dusk, a small varmint pops up at 50 yards, and you need a quiet, precise shot that won’t spook the cattle. Or maybe you’re introducing a new shooter to the fundamentals, where the smooth, deliberate action of a lever builds confidence with every cycle. That’s the realm of the Henry Lever 22 Magnum 20″ Octagon Barrel. It’s a classic American rimfire rifle chambered in .22 WMR, built for practical accuracy, low-recoil training, and small-game hunting where reliability and traditional handling are paramount.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a safe queen. It’s a working rifle. The 20-inch octagon barrel isn’t just for looks; it adds forward weight for a steadier offhand hold and dissipates heat efficiently during extended range sessions. Chambered in the potent .22 Magnum (WMR), it bridges the gap between standard .22 LR and larger centerfire rounds, offering a flatter trajectory and more decisive impact on small game out to 100 yards. The lever action itself is a masterclass in mechanical simplicity. It’s smooth, intuitive, and fosters a deliberate shooting rhythm that automatic actions can’t match. This rifle is drop-in ready with its included buckhorn rear and blade front sight, requiring no immediate modifications to get you on target. With a price point of $492.08, it delivers proven Henry quality without a premium collector’s markup.
Key Features & Practical Performance
The heart of this system is the .22 WMR cartridge. When it comes to dispatching raccoons, groundhogs, or coyotes at moderate distances, the .22 Magnum delivers significantly more energy than a .22 Long Rifle while maintaining minimal report and virtually no recoil. The tubular magazine holds a generous quantity of rounds, feeding reliably with each stroke of the lever. That classic action isn’t just nostalgic—it’s a tactile, positive control that keeps you engaged with the firearm’s operation, shot after shot.
Weighing in at approximately 6.25 lbs, the rifle balances naturally, with the octagon barrel providing a distinct, solid feel. The American walnut stock offers a traditional grip and a solid cheek weld for instinctive sight alignment. The buckhorn sights are fast to acquire in good light, and the rifle’s flat-sided receiver is drilled and tapped for easy scope mounting if you want to add optics like a Leupold VX-Freedom Rimfire or a Vortex Crossfire II for precision work. This versatility means the rifle can evolve with your needs. The overall length of 38.5 inches makes it maneuverable in a blind or truck cab without being unwieldy.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) |
| Barrel | 20″ Octagon |
| Overall Length | 38.5″ |
| Weight | ~6.25 lbs |
| Magazine | Tubular, under barrel |
| Sights | Buckhorn Rear, Blade Front |
Pros: Extremely reliable and simple mechanical action. Low report and recoil make it ideal for training and sensitive areas. The .22 WMR cartridge is effective for small to medium varmints. Classic, durable construction with a real-wood stock. High capacity tubular magazine. That said, no firearm is perfect for every task.
Cons: Lever actions are slower to operate than semi-autos for follow-up shots. The tubular magazine is slower to load than a detachable box magazine. Open sights can be a challenge in very low light compared to optics.
Who Is This Rifle For?
This Henry is for the Missouri landowner who needs a dependable tool for pest control around the barn. It’s for the mentor teaching a young shooter firearm safety and mechanics with a manageable, yet capable, cartridge. It’s for the hunter who appreciates the tradition and rhythm of a lever gun for squirrels and rabbits. It’s also a fantastic choice for a recreational plinker who values fun and fundamentals over high-volume fire. Simply put, it’s for the shooter who values proven, hands-on reliability over tactical pretension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the real-world difference between .22 Long Rifle and .22 Magnum in this rifle?
A: The .22 WMR (Magnum) fires a larger, heavier bullet at significantly higher velocity. This translates to more energy on target, a flatter trajectory for easier aiming at distance, and better performance on slightly larger game like coyotes or fox. Think of it as a substantial step up in power while still being a rimfire.
Q: Can I use .22 Long Rifle ammunition in this .22 Magnum rifle?
A: No. You must only use .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) ammunition. Firing a .22 LR in a .22 WMR chamber is dangerous and can cause catastrophic firearm failure. Always verify your ammunition matches the caliber stamped on your barrel.
Q: Is it difficult to mount a scope on this lever-action?
A: Not at all. The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for a standard scope base. Installing a one-piece base designed for Henry rimfire lever actions, like those from Weaver or Warne, is straightforward. Then you can add rings and your preferred optic. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when ordering online to your local dealer.
Ready to handle this classic? The Henry Lever 22 Magnum 20″ Octagon Barrel is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Check current inventory and initiate your secure order.
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