Description
Picture this: you’re in the Missouri timber, the light’s fading, and you need a rifle that’s as reliable as the sunrise. Something with enough authority for anything on this continent, but without the boutique price tag that makes you wince. That’s the practical appeal of the Henry Repeating Arms, Lever Action, 45-70, 18.43″rd Barrel, 1.20″ Rate of Twist, Blue Finish, Pistol Grip, American Walnut Stock, Fully Adjustable Semi-Buckhorn Rear and Brass Beaded Front Sight, 4Rd. It’s a classic American lever-action rifle chambered in the legendary 45-70 Government cartridge, built with traditional craftsmanship and modern reliability at a price that makes sense for the working hunter or shooter.
Look, when you’re shopping for a 45-70, you quickly find prices that can climb into the thousands. At $715.80, this Henry model sits in a sweet spot. You’re getting Henry’s renowned quality—the smooth action, the solid feel—without paying for fancy engraving or a collector’s name. It’s a tool-first rifle, and that’s its greatest strength. The 45-70 Gov’t cartridge itself is a major data point: it fires a .458-inch diameter bullet, offering devastating stopping power for large game, from whitetail to bear, within sensible iron-sight ranges.
The feature set is thoughtfully no-nonsense. The American walnut stock with a pistol grip provides a secure, traditional hold, while the 18.43-inch round barrel keeps the rifle maneuverable in thick cover. The sights are a highlight for the budget-conscious shooter: the fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear and brass bead front are simple, rugged, and effective. They’re drop-in ready for use right out of the box—no immediate need for an expensive optic, which is a huge cost savings. That brass front sight catches the light beautifully for a quick pick-up in low conditions.
Here’s the thing—the 1:20″ rate of twist is the key to stabilizing heavy, hard-hitting 45-70 bullets. This rifle is built to handle the modern, potent loads from manufacturers like Hornady and Buffalo Bore, giving you flexibility from manageable plinking rounds to serious bear-stoppers. The 4-round capacity is classic lever-gun, encouraging deliberate, well-placed shots. The deep, rich blue finish on the steel isn’t just for looks; it’s a durable, time-tested protection that, with basic care, will last for generations.
Specifications
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 18.43″ Round |
| Rate of Twist | 1:20″ |
| Capacity | 4 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut, Pistol Grip |
| Sights | Adj. Semi-Buckhorn Rear, Brass Bead Front |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: you get legendary 45-70 power in a famously reliable Henry action, with excellent iron sights and classic good looks, all at a very competitive price point. It’s a rifle that feels substantial and inspires confidence. The cons are the inherent trade-offs of the platform: the 45-70 is expensive to shoot compared to something like a .30-30, recoil is stout with full-power loads, and the 4-round capacity is modest. It’s also not threaded for a suppressor, which some modern hunters might want.
Who is this rifle for? It’s for the Missouri hunter who wants a durable, powerful rifle for deer, hog, or bear in dense woods or river bottoms. It’s for the shooter who appreciates traditional mechanics and the tactile satisfaction of a lever action. It’s also an ideal first 45-70 for someone who wants to step into big-bore shooting without a four-figure investment. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this Henry 45-70 suitable for modern, high-pressure ammunition?
A: Yes. The 1:20″ twist rate and Henry’s solid construction are designed to safely handle a wide range of factory 45-70 loads, including the stronger “Lever Evolution” type rounds from Hornady. Always consult your owner’s manual and start with standard loads to get accustomed to the rifle.
Q: Can a scope be mounted on this model?
A: This specific model comes drilled and tapped for a scope mount, but you would need to purchase a separate base (commonly available from brands like Warne or Leupold) that fits the Henry Lever Action pattern. The included iron sights are excellent for most practical ranges with this cartridge.
Q: How does the recoil compare to other hunting rifles?
A: With full-power 45-70 loads, recoil is significant—more than a .30-06, comparable to a 12-gauge slug gun. The rifle’s weight (typically around 7-8 lbs) and the pistol grip stock help manage it. Using milder cowboy-action loads drastically reduces felt recoil for pleasant range sessions.
If you’ve been waiting for a straightforward, high-quality 45-70 that prioritizes performance over frills, this Henry lever action deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
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