Description
The Henry Side Gate Lever Action in 45-70 Government is a modern take on a classic hunting rifle. It features a 20-inch barrel, a distinctive brass receiver, a genuine American walnut stock, a 4-round capacity, and fully adjustable semi-buckhorn sights. This rifle blends traditional aesthetics with the practical convenience of a side loading gate for easier, safer reloading.
Key Features
- Side Loading Gate: The standout feature. Load one round at a time directly into the magazine tube without cycling the action, a huge upgrade for safety and convenience in the field.
- 45-70 Government Chambering: A legendary, hard-hitting caliber perfect for North American big game. I’ve put a variety of factory loads through this, and it handles everything from mild cowboy loads to heavy bear stoppers with authority.
- Brass Receiver & Walnut Stock: The polished brass receiver and rich, checkered walnut stock give this rifle an heirloom-quality look that stands out in any safe. It’s a classic aesthetic done right.
- Adjustable Sights: The fully adjustable semi-buckhorn rear and brass bead front sight are dead simple to dial in. They provide a clean, traditional sight picture that’s fast on target.
- Smooth Lever Action: Henry’s action is famously slick right out of the box. No gunsmithing required to achieve that buttery-smooth, reliable cycling that lever-gun fans demand.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | 38.5 inches (approx.) |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs (approx.) |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 Rounds |
| Receiver Material | Polished Brass |
| Stock Material | American Walnut |
Look, the 45-70 is a serious round, and this Henry is built to handle it. The side gate is the real game-changer here—no more unloading by working the lever a dozen times. You can top off the magazine whenever you want. The rifle balances nicely at that 7.5 lb mark, feeling solid but not cumbersome in the hands. At $860.00, it sits in a sweet spot between pure utility and collectible craftsmanship.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is the rifle for the hunter who appreciates tradition but demands modern functionality. It’s for the Missouri whitetail hunter in thick timber, the bear hunter out West, or anyone who wants a powerful, reliable brush gun with undeniable character. It’s also a fantastic choice for the lever-action enthusiast who wants the versatility of the side gate without sacrificing the classic look. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your next adventure.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The side loading gate is a massive functional improvement. The fit and finish are excellent, with deep bluing and polished brass. The 45-70 caliber offers tremendous versatility and power. The action is smooth and reliable from round one. The classic walnut and brass combination is simply gorgeous.
Cons: The 45-70 is not a cheap round to shoot for high-volume practice. The brass receiver, while beautiful, requires a bit more care to keep it looking pristine compared to a blued steel finish. The 4-round capacity is standard for the caliber but less than some modern rifles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you still load through the tube like a traditional Henry?
A: Yes, absolutely. Henry includes the traditional tube-loading capability as well. You have the option to use either method, which is the best of both worlds.
Q: Is this rifle suitable for a first-time lever gun owner?
A: It certainly can be. The action is user-friendly, the manual of arms is straightforward, and the side gate makes loading much more intuitive for newcomers. Just respect the recoil of the 45-70—start with lighter loads to get comfortable.
Q: What optics mount easily on this rifle?
A: The receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope mount. A classic, low-power scope like a Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 or a compact red dot on a Picatinny base, such as those from Vortex, work beautifully without ruining the rifle’s lines. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
If you’re after a powerful, beautiful, and thoughtfully modernized lever action, this Henry Side Gate in 45-70 Government deserves a close look. See more details and check availability at firearms-missouri.com.
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