Description
The Henry Silver Eagle Lever Rifle in .17 HMR is a purpose-built rimfire varmint rifle that combines classic lever-action heritage with modern, flat-shooting performance. It features a 20-inch barrel, a 12-round capacity, a genuine American walnut stock, and a polished nickel receiver for a distinctive look that’s both functional and eye-catching. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of .17 HMR through this platform, and it’s a laser beam on small targets out to 150 yards. Here’s my take on where it shines and who should consider it.
Key Features & Why They Matter
- Flat-Shooting .17 HMR Caliber: This isn’t your grandpa’s lever gun round. The .17 HMR offers a hyper-velocity, low-recoil experience with an incredibly flat trajectory, making it ideal for precise shots on prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and other small pests.
- Polished Nickel Receiver: More than just good looks, the nickel finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. It stands out in the safe and holds up well to morning dew and field use, requiring less maintenance than a standard blued finish.
- Genuine American Walnut Stock: Henry doesn’t cut corners here. The walnut has a solid, substantial feel with a classic finish that improves with age. It balances the rifle perfectly and just feels right in the hands.
- 12-Round Tubular Magazine: The under-barrel tube holds a generous 12 rounds of .17 HMR. That’s a lot of firepower between reloads, which is a huge advantage when you’re dealing with multiple targets or a long session at the range.
- Smooth Lever Action: Henry’s action is famously slick right out of the box. The throw is short and positive, allowing for quick follow-up shots without losing your sight picture. No gunsmithing required to get it running smoothly.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .17 HMR |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 38.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 12 Rounds |
| Receiver Finish | Polished Nickel |
| Stock Material | American Walnut |
Look, the .17 HMR is a niche but highly effective cartridge, and this rifle is built specifically to harness its potential. The 20-inch barrel gives that little bullet all the velocity it needs without making the firearm unwieldy. At about 6.5 pounds, it carries easily all day. The real beauty is in the details—the crisp, adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight, the brass front sight bead, and the drilled and tapped receiver that’s ready for a scope mount. I’ve found it pairs perfectly with compact rimfire scopes from brands like Leupold or Vortex, like the Crossfire II 2-7x32mm.
Who This Rifle Is For
This isn’t a general-purpose plinker. It’s for the shooter who needs to reach out and touch small varmints with authority and consistency. Think Missouri farmers protecting crops, dedicated pest controllers, or rimfire enthusiasts who appreciate precision at distance. It’s also for the collector or hunter who wants the timeless appeal of a lever action but with the ballistic advantage of a modern rimfire cartridge. If you spend your weekends scanning a pasture or a prairie dog town, this is your tool.
Pros & Cons: The Straight Talk
Pros: The accuracy potential with quality ammo is outstanding. The .17 HMR has minimal drop and wind drift compared to .22 WMR. The 12-round capacity is a major plus. The nickel and walnut combination is durable and stunning. Henry’s customer service is legendary. The action is smooth and reliable from day one.
Cons: The .17 HMR ammo is more expensive than .22 LR and can be harder to find. The cartridge is hyper-fragmented on impact, making it unsuitable for anything but the smallest game or varmints. The tubular magazine requires patience to load compared to a detachable box. That said, for its intended role, the pros massively outweigh the cons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .17 HMR powerful enough for coyotes?
A: I don’t recommend it. While a perfect head or neck shot might do the job, the .17 HMR lacks the consistent penetration and energy for ethical, humane coyote hunting. It’s a varmint round, best suited for animals smaller than a raccoon. Stick to centerfire calibers for coyotes.
Q: Can I use .17 Mach 2 or .22 LR ammunition in this rifle?
A: Absolutely not. Fire only .17 HMR ammunition in this rifle. The chamber and bore are specifically sized for this cartridge. Using any other caliber is extremely dangerous and can cause catastrophic firearm failure. Always double-check your ammo.
Q: How does the nickel finish hold up over time?
A: Exceptionally well. Nickel plating is far more resistant to rust and corrosion than traditional blued steel. It wipes clean easily and maintains its shine with basic care. It’s a practical choice for a field rifle that might see damp conditions, not just a showpiece.
Priced at $764.12, the Henry Silver Eagle Lever Rifle in .17 HMR represents a significant investment in a specialized tool. You’re paying for premium materials, flawless fit and finish, and Henry’s unwavering build quality. If your needs align with what this rifle does best—making small, distant targets disappear with surgical precision—it’s incredibly hard to beat. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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