Henry Lever Action Side Gate .410 Shotgun Review

$77,070.00

A versatile, side-gate-fed lever-action shotgun in .410 bore. Perfect for small game, pest control, and a classic field experience, built with Henry’s reliable smooth action and American walnut.

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Description

Picture this: you’re walking a brushy fence line in the Missouri River bottoms. A rabbit flushes, then a grouse. You need a fast-handling, versatile tool that can handle both small game and the occasional snake, all without breaking the bank. That’s where the classic lever action meets the practical .410 bore.

The Henry Lever Action Side Gate .410 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 2.5″ Chamber, American Walnut, Blued, 6rd is a modern take on a timeless design. It’s a smooth-operating, side-gate-fed lever-action shotgun chambered in .410 bore, built for reliability and value. It features a 24-inch blued steel barrel, a genuine American walnut stock, and a 6-round capacity, offering a unique blend of fast follow-up shots and manageable power for a variety of uses. At a price point of $770.70, it sits in a sweet spot for a well-made, brand-name firearm that doesn’t demand a premium for fancy extras you might not need.

Let’s talk about the side gate. This isn’t just for looks—it’s a functional upgrade that adds real utility. While the rifle still has the traditional tube magazine loading under the barrel, the side gate allows you to top off the magazine without cycling all the rounds out. That’s a genuine advantage when you’re in the field and want to keep the gun ready. The action itself is Henry-smooth, a known quantity for reliable cycling with 2.5-inch .410 shells, from light target loads to heavier game loads. It’s a design that works, and works well, with no gunsmithing required to get it running right out of the box.

The 24-inch barrel provides a good balance. It’s long enough for a steady swing on moving targets and helps with patterning the .410 shot, yet it keeps the overall rifle handy and quick to shoulder in thick cover. Paired with the classic American walnut stock and forend, you get a firearm that feels solid and looks right—a working gun with honest character. The blued finish is traditional and durable, meant to be used, not just admired. Weighing in at roughly 7 pounds, it carries easily all day.

Here’s the thing—the .410 is often debated. It’s not a 12-gauge, and it doesn’t try to be. Its value is in its low recoil, lighter weight, and versatility with shot or slugs. For small game, pest control, or even introductory shooting, it’s a fantastic choice. This Henry makes that platform even more accessible by putting it in a fast-handling, incredibly reliable lever-action format. You get six rounds on tap, which is a solid capacity for a .410, allowing for multiple shots at a covey rise or while dispatching pests around the farm.

Henry Lever Action .410 Specifications
Specification Detail
Caliber/Gauge .410 Bore (2.5″ Chamber)
Action Lever Action with Side Gate
Barrel Length 24 Inches
Capacity 6 Rounds
Stock American Walnut
Finish Blued Steel
Overall Length Approx. 42.5 Inches

Pros: The side-gate loading is a huge practical benefit. The Henry reputation for smooth actions and quality construction is a major plus. The .410 chambering offers low recoil, making it great for newer shooters or long days in the field. The classic walnut and blued steel look is timeless. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense firearm that does its job well.

Cons: The .410 shell itself is more expensive per round than 12 or 20 gauge target loads. Its effective range for shot is more limited compared to larger gauges. The rifle is a dedicated .410 platform, so you can’t swap barrels or calibers like some other systems.

So who is this rifle for? It’s perfect for the Missouri landowner who needs a versatile tool for varmints, snakes, and the occasional rabbit or squirrel for the pot. It’s an excellent choice for a younger shooter’s first firearm, thanks to the manageable recoil and the cool factor of a lever action. It’s also for the hunter who appreciates classic mechanics and wants a fast-handling shotgun for dense cover. If you’re looking for a high-capacity home defense shotgun, this isn’t it—but for a practical, everyday working gun with soul, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can it fire 3-inch .410 shells?

A: No. The chamber is specifically for 2.5-inch .410 bore shells. Always use ammunition that matches the chamber specification for safety and proper function.

Q: Is the side gate the only way to load it?

A: No, it has dual loading. You can still load via the traditional tube under the barrel, or use the side gate to add a round directly to the magazine tube. The side gate is for topping off.

Q: What kind of sights does it have?

A: It typically comes with a classic blade front sight and an adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight, which are effective for the ranges .410 shot and slugs are used. The barrel is also drilled and tapped for a scope mount if desired.

This Henry lever action .410 is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If you need a reliable, hands-on firearm that blends classic style with practical modern features, this model deserves a close look. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.

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