Description
Picture this: a young hunter, maybe 12 or 13, shouldering their first real shotgun. It’s not a hand-me-down that’s too long or too heavy—it fits. The action is simple, the safety lesson is clear, and the focus is on fundamentals. That’s the experience the Henry Single-Shot Youth 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 3″, American Walnut, 1rd is built to deliver. It’s a no-fuss, value-packed entry point designed to teach respect and skill without breaking the bank.
The Henry Single-Shot Youth 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 3″, 1rd is a break-action shotgun built with younger or smaller-framed shooters in mind. It features a 26-inch barrel chambered for 3-inch 20-gauge shells, a classic American walnut stock, and a simple, safe single-shot design perfect for learning. At a price of $391.88, it represents a solid budget-conscious choice for a first firearm.
Let’s talk about where this gun’s value really shines. The 20-gauge chambering is the sweet spot for youth and new shooters—it has plenty of power for small game and clays, but with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge. That makes practice less intimidating and more productive. The 26-inch barrel is a practical length, offering a good balance between maneuverability in the woods and a smooth swing on crossing shots. It’s a design that prioritizes handling and control over firepower, which is exactly what a training firearm should do.
The American walnut stock isn’t just for looks; it provides a durable, traditional foundation. The single-shot action is the ultimate teacher. It enforces patience, marksmanship, and safety with every round. There’s no magazine to fuss with, just a simple break-open mechanism. This gun is drop-in ready for its purpose—no modifications needed to start a new shooter on the right path. It’s compatible with standard 20-gauge ammunition from all major brands like Federal, Winchester, and Remington, keeping your ammo costs flexible.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Capacity | 1 Round |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Action | Break-Action, Single Shot |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42 Inches |
Here’s the thing—every choice involves a tradeoff. The pros are clear: affordable price, excellent for training, reduced recoil, and Henry’s renowned build quality and customer service. The cons are inherent to the design. The single-shot capacity is a limitation for any follow-up shots, and the youth-sized stock may eventually feel too short for a full-grown adult. That said, for its intended role as a first gun, these aren’t bugs; they’re features.
So who is this for? Primarily, it’s for parents or mentors looking to introduce a young person to shooting sports or hunting responsibly. It’s also a fantastic option for an adult of smaller stature seeking a lightweight, simple shotgun for occasional pest control or plinking. If you need a truck gun or a dedicated waterfowl tool, look elsewhere. But if you want to build a foundation of safety and skill, this Henry is a hard value to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the length of pull on this youth model?
A: The length of pull is typically around 12.5 inches, which is about 1.5 to 2 inches shorter than a standard adult shotgun, making it much easier for younger shooters to handle properly and safely.
Q: Can an adult comfortably shoot this shotgun?
A: While it’s designed for youth, many smaller-framed adults find it points and handles very well. The main consideration is the shorter length of pull, which might feel cramped for taller or longer-armed shooters. It’s a tradeoff for its primary purpose.
Q: Is this shotgun suitable for hunting?
A: Absolutely. The 20-gauge is a capable round for small game like squirrels and rabbits, as well as upland birds. The single-shot design encourages careful, ethical shot placement. It’s an excellent choice for a young hunter’s first season.
This Henry Single-Shot is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If you’re seeking a straightforward, quality-built firearm to start a shooter’s journey on solid ground, this model deserves a close look.




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