Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, and the distinctive ka-chink of a lever-action cycling draws every eye. That’s the presence of the Henry. It’s not just a rifle; it’s a piece of history you can shoot. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of .44-40 through this Uberti replica, and it never fails to turn a range day into an event. So, what is the Uberti 1860 Henry Rifle, .44-40 Win, 24.5″, Steel? It’s a faithful, shootable reproduction of the iconic Civil War-era lever-action rifle, chambered in the classic .44-40 Winchester cartridge. It blends historical authenticity with modern manufacturing for a reliable and deeply satisfying shooting experience. This specific model, with its 24.5-inch barrel and steel construction, is the definitive version for the traditionalist shooter.
Let’s talk about what makes this rifle special. The first thing you’ll notice is the flawless fit and finish. Uberti doesn’t cut corners. The walnut stock has a rich, authentic oil finish that feels right in your hands, and the blued steel barrel and receiver have a deep, consistent luster. The action is tight but smooth out of the box—no gunsmithing required to start enjoying it. Loading is a unique ritual with the Henry; you slide the spring-loaded follower in the magazine tube forward and drop rounds directly into the front of the magazine under the barrel. It’s a tactile process that connects you to the 19th-century design. The rifle feeds and ejects reliably, and the trigger breaks cleanly after a bit of initial take-up.
The .44-40 Winchester chambering is a big part of the appeal. It’s a historic cowboy cartridge with manageable recoil, making it a joy to shoot all afternoon. While not a modern long-range powerhouse, it’s plenty effective for steel targets, plinking, and even hunting at sensible distances. Pairing this rifle with a period-correct revolver in .44-40, like a Uberti Cattleman or a Colt SAA replica, creates an unmatched classic combo. The 24.5-inch barrel gives it a heft and balance that just feels correct, aiding in offhand shooting and making that lever throw feel incredibly natural. With an overall length just over 43 inches and a weight around 9 pounds, it’s substantial but not cumbersome.
Specifications
| Caliber | .44-40 Winchester |
| Barrel Length | 24.5 Inches |
| Overall Length | 43.3 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 9 lbs |
| Capacity | 13 Rounds |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Walnut Stock |
Pros & Cons
Here’s the thing—no rifle is perfect for everyone. The pros are obvious: incredible historical authenticity, superb Uberti craftsmanship, and a uniquely engaging shooting experience. It’s a conversation starter and a pure fun factor that’s hard to beat. The cons are inherent to the design. That tube loading is slower than a side gate, and you can’t easily top off the magazine. Sights are the classic non-adjustable blade and notch, which some may find limiting. And at $1302.27, it’s an investment in history, not just a tool.
Who is this for?
This rifle is for the history buff, the CAS (Cowboy Action Shooting) competitor looking for an authentic Henry experience, or the collector who actually shoots their collection. It’s for someone who values the journey of shooting as much as the result on target. If your idea of a good time involves feeling a direct link to the past with every lever throw, this is your rifle. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, ready for your FFL transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .44-40 cartridge hard to find or expensive?
A: Not really. It’s a staple cowboy action caliber. While not as common as .357 Magnum, major manufacturers like Winchester and Black Hills produce it regularly, and it’s readily available from online retailers. You can also reload for it quite effectively.
Q: Can you mount a scope on this rifle?
A: Technically, yes, with specific mounts that clamp to the barrel, but it would be a shame. The design isn’t meant for it, and it completely defeats the rifle’s historical aesthetic and handling. This is an iron-sights-only proposition in my book.
Q: How does it compare to a modern Henry or a Winchester 1873 replica?
A: The modern Henry rifles have side loading gates and are fantastic shooters, but they lack this specific historical lineage. The 1873 has a different loading system and action. The 1860 Henry is the original—the rifle that started it all. The experience is distinct and more immersive, if slightly less convenient.
If the idea of owning and shooting a tangible piece of American history speaks to you, this Uberti 1860 Henry deserves a close look. See it on our site and talk to your local FFL about a transfer.
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