Description
The Henry Lever Varmint Express .17 HMR is a purpose-built rimfire rifle designed for precision varmint and small game hunting. It combines the smooth, reliable action of a Henry lever gun with the flat-shooting, low-recoil .17 HMR cartridge, all wrapped in a classic American Walnut stock with a blued 20-inch barrel. For the hunter seeking a practical, accurate, and affordable tool, this rifle delivers serious bang-for-buck.
Key Features
- Flat-Shooting .17 HMR Caliber: Offers laser-like trajectory for precise shots on small targets out to 150+ yards.
- Lever-Action Reliability: Henry’s renowned smooth action is simple, fast, and dependable in the field.
- Classic American Walnut Stock: Provides a traditional look and durable feel without a fancy price tag.
- 20″ Blued Barrel: Balances maneuverability with the velocity needed for the .17 HMR round.
- Excellent Value: At $498.10, it undercuts many bolt-action varmint rifles while offering faster follow-up shots.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 38.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Stock Material | American Walnut |
| Finish | Blued Steel |
The rifle features a tubular magazine with an 11-round capacity, which is more than enough for a day in the field. The barrel is capped with a removable, threaded muzzle protector, hinting at its readiness for accessories. Here’s the thing—it’s a straightforward, no-frills workhorse. The action is typically smooth right out of the box, and no gunsmithing required to get it field-ready. Just mount a scope using standard rimfire rings on the grooved receiver, and you’re set.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Henry is perfect for the budget-conscious Missouri landowner or hunter. It’s for the person dealing with prairie dogs, ground squirrels, or raccoons around the property who wants a fun, accurate rifle that won’t break the bank. It’s also a fantastic first rifle for a new hunter learning to track and lead game, thanks to its mild report and negligible recoil. Compared to a .22 WMR, the .17 HMR offers a flatter trajectory, making shot placement easier at longer ranges.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: The .17 HMR cartridge is devastatingly accurate on varmints with minimal fur damage. The lever action allows for quick second shots without losing your sight picture. Henry’s customer service is legendary, adding long-term value. The classic walnut and blue finish looks far more expensive than it is. It’s simply a reliable, effective tool.
Cons: Ammo for the .17 HMR costs more than .22 LR, so practice sessions get pricier. The tubular magazine loads slower than a detachable box magazine. Some long-range precision shooters might still prefer a bolt-action for ultimate accuracy, but for most practical hunting distances, this lever gun is more than capable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What scope works best on this rifle?
A: A 3-9x40mm or 4-12x40mm variable scope from brands like Vortex Crossfire II or Leupold VX-Freedom is an ideal match. Use standard .22 tip-off or rimfire rings to mount it to the receiver’s grooved rail.
Q: Is the .17 HMR powerful enough for coyotes?
A: It can be used on coyotes with precise shot placement, but it’s really optimized for smaller varmints like foxes, groundhogs, and raccoons. For dedicated coyote hunting, a centerfire cartridge is generally recommended.
Q: How does it compare to a bolt-action .17 HMR?
A: You trade a tiny bit of potential bench-rest accuracy for faster follow-up shots and that iconic lever-gun handling. For a walking hunter, the lever’s speed is a real advantage. The price point is often better, too.
Final Verdict & Next Steps
The Henry Lever Varmint Express .17 HMR 20″ Barrel American Walnut Stock Blue is a standout value in the rimfire world. It delivers proven performance, classic aesthetics, and Henry reliability at a very accessible price point. It’s a practical choice that gets the job done without fuss. This rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you need a capable, affordable varmint rifle that’s also a joy to shoot, this Henry deserves a close look.
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