Description
The Henry Original Rifle, Lever Action, .45 Colt, 24.5″, 13rd, American Walnut is a faithful, modern-made reproduction of the classic 1860 Henry rifle. It’s a side-loading lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt, featuring a 24.5-inch octagonal barrel, a 13-round capacity, and a genuine American Walnut stock. This is a piece of living history you can take to the range, blending 19th-century aesthetics with 21st-century manufacturing precision.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of .45 Colt through this rifle, and the experience is pure Americana. The action is smooth right out of the box—no gunsmithing required to get that satisfying, solid lever throw. The weight of that octagonal barrel is noticeable, coming in at a substantial 9.68 lbs, but it’s a steadying weight that makes offhand shooting feel anchored and deliberate. Here’s the thing—this isn’t a lightweight brush gun; it’s a range toy, a showpiece, and a tangible connection to the past.
Key Features
- Classic 1860 Henry Rifle Reproduction: Authentic side-loading gate, brass receiver, and octagonal barrel profile.
- Chambered in .45 Colt: A versatile, low-recoil cartridge perfect for target shooting and cowboy action.
- 24.5″ Octagonal Barrel: Provides excellent sight radius and a classic, hefty feel.
- 13-Round Magazine Capacity: Loads via the iconic side gate for an authentic experience.
- Genuine American Walnut Stock: Finished with a rich, hand-rubbed oil for durability and beauty.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Colt |
| Barrel Length | 24.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 43.5 inches |
| Weight | 9.68 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 13 rounds |
| Stock Material | American Walnut |
Who is this rifle for? It’s for the collector who appreciates historical firearms but wants the reliability of a new gun. It’s for the cowboy action shooter looking for a distinctive main match rifle that stands out from the sea of ’92 and ’73 clones. It’s also for the recreational shooter who values craftsmanship and the tactile pleasure of operating a mechanical work of art. At $1917.87, it’s an investment in a functional heirloom.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Unmatched historical authenticity and conversation-starting looks. The fit and finish are superb, with deep bluing and polished brass. Henry’s customer service is legendary. The side-loading gate is a joy to use once you get the technique down. It’s a remarkably accurate platform with the right loads.
Cons: That 9.68 lb weight is real—this is not a rifle you’ll want to carry all day in the field. The .45 Colt cartridge, while fun, is more expensive to feed than .22 LR or .357 Magnum (in a rifle that can also shoot .38 Special). The rear sight is a classic ladder type, which is period-correct but not as fast as a semi-buckhorn for some shooters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle shoot .45 Colt +P or Ruger-only loads?
A: I do not recommend it. The Henry Original is built to classic specifications and is designed for standard-pressure .45 Colt ammunition. Stick to SAAMI-spec loads for safety and longevity.
Q: Is the magazine tube removable for cleaning?
A: No, it’s not. Cleaning is done from the breech end, which is standard for this design. A good cleaning rod and patience are your friends here.
Q: What kind of optics can I mount?
A: The rifle comes drilled and tapped for a scope mount, and companies like Skinner Sights make excellent peep sights that are compatible with the Henry Original’s profile, offering a period-appropriate accuracy upgrade.
Look, if you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of the Old West without the antique firearm concerns, this Henry is your ticket. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your FFL transfer. The experience of loading, cycling, and firing it is simply different from any modern lever gun. See the full details and make it yours at firearms-missouri.com.
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