6 Best Used Henry Lever Action .22s That Last for Generations

There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from cycling a smooth lever action on a crisp autumn afternoon, sending tin cans dancing across a field. For decades, Henry Repeating Arms has been at the heart of that experience, crafting .22 rifles that are as reliable as they are nostalgic. Buying a used Henry isn’t just acquiring a firearm; it’s adopting a piece of American tradition that’s ready for generations more of service.

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The Enduring Appeal of Henry’s .22 Lever Rifles

Imagine a rifle that a grandfather can teach his grandchild to shoot with, and that same rifle can be passed down to the next generation in perfect working order. That’s the promise of a Henry. Their reputation for durability isn’t just marketing; it’s built on simple, robust designs and a commitment to quality materials, all made right here in the USA.

The core of their appeal lies in a buttery-smooth action that feels solid and dependable right out of the box, even after thousands of rounds. Unlike more complex semi-automatics, a lever action has fewer small parts to fail or get gummed up, making it exceptionally reliable with a wide variety of .22 Long Rifle, Long, and Short ammunition. This simplicity makes them fantastic tools for teaching the fundamentals of marksmanship, safety, and firearm maintenance.

A used Henry represents one of the best values in the shooting world. Because they are built to last, a well-cared-for rifle from ten years ago functions identically to a new one. This allows you to get an heirloom-quality firearm for a fraction of the price, putting a timeless shooting experience within reach for almost any budget.

Henry H001 Classic: The Quintessential Plinker

If you could only have one .22 rifle for casual fun, the H001 Classic would be it. This is the workhorse of the Henry lineup, the rifle that has introduced countless people to the joy of shooting. Its straightforward design, with a durable blued steel barrel and a plain American walnut stock, prioritizes function over flash.

The H001 is light, handy, and incredibly easy to operate. It’s the perfect companion for a day of informal target practice or for keeping pests under control around the farm. Its 15-round capacity for .22LR means more time shooting and less time fumbling with magazines. For anyone from a brand-new shooter to a seasoned outdoorsman, the Classic is a no-nonsense tool that simply works, every single time.

When looking at a used H001, you’re looking at pure utility. Scratches on the stock or minor wear on the blueing are often just signs of a well-loved tool, not a compromised firearm. It’s the ultimate embodiment of getting outside over gear perfection; it’s not about looking pristine, it’s about creating memories.

Henry Golden Boy H004: Heirloom-Quality Looks

The Golden Boy is for the shooter who appreciates the finer things. It takes the flawless function of the H001 and wraps it in a package designed to be admired. The most striking features are its gleaming Brasslite receiver cover, brass buttplate, and a classic 20-inch octagonal barrel that harkens back to the firearms of the Old West.

This isn’t just a plinker; it’s a presentation piece. The Golden Boy is the rifle you buy to commemorate a milestone or to be the centerpiece of a collection that gets passed down through the family. The added weight of the octagonal barrel also gives it a steadier feel when aiming, which can contribute to better practical accuracy for some shooters.

The primary tradeoff here is cost and a bit of extra weight. A used Golden Boy will command a higher price than a standard H001, and its polished receiver is more prone to showing fingerprints and fine scratches. It’s a rifle that balances rugged utility with genuine beauty, perfect for those who want their gear to tell a story.

Henry Frontier H001T: The Octagon Barrel Value

What if you want the classic look and improved balance of an octagonal barrel without the flash of the Golden Boy? The Henry Frontier H001T is your answer. It’s the perfect middle ground, offering a significant aesthetic and functional upgrade over the base model at a much more accessible price point than its brass-clad sibling.

The 20-inch octagonal barrel gives the Frontier a more substantial feel and a longer sight radius, aiding in precise shooting. It shares the same simple, reliable action and walnut stock as the Classic, but with a profile that feels more deliberate and traditional. This makes it an excellent choice for someone who wants a rifle that looks as good as it shoots but plans to use it regularly in the field without worrying about marring a polished finish.

On the used market, the Frontier represents a smart buy. You get one of the most desirable features—the octagon barrel—without paying the premium for the Golden Boy’s cosmetic enhancements. It’s a practical, handsome rifle for the discerning shooter who values performance and classic styling equally.

Henry Small Game Rifle: For Precise Plinking

For the shooter whose primary goal is putting rounds exactly where they want them, the Small Game Rifle is a specialized tool. While it shares the same reliable platform as its brethren, it comes factory-equipped with high-quality Skinner peep sights. This aperture sight system is a massive upgrade over standard buckhorn sights for precision work.

The peep sight allows your eye to naturally center the front post, resulting in a clearer sight picture and enhanced accuracy. This makes it an ideal choice for small game hunting where shot placement is critical, or for shooters who enjoy the challenge of ringing steel at a distance. It’s a rifle designed for performance right out of the box, saving you the cost and effort of upgrading the sights yourself.

When considering a used Small Game Rifle, you’re investing in capability. It’s less about general-purpose plinking and more about achieving the best possible accuracy from an iron-sighted lever action. The tradeoff is a sight picture that might be less intuitive for a brand-new shooter, but for an experienced marksman, it’s a significant advantage.

Henry Youth Model H001Y: A Perfect First Rifle

Getting a new shooter started requires gear that fits them properly. The Henry Youth Model is purpose-built for this, featuring a shorter 13-inch length of pull and a more compact overall size. This isn’t just a smaller rifle; it’s a more manageable and safer tool for young or smaller-statured individuals.

An ill-fitting rifle is awkward and can lead to developing bad habits. The Youth Model’s ergonomics allow a new shooter to mount the rifle correctly, reach the trigger comfortably, and manage its weight with ease. This builds confidence and ensures their first experiences are positive and focused on learning the fundamentals of safety and marksmanship.

Because kids grow, these rifles often appear on the used market in excellent condition. They are a fantastic, budget-friendly way to introduce the next generation to the outdoors. And thanks to Henry’s build quality, it will be ready for the next youngster in the family when the time comes.

Henry Mare’s Leg H001ML: A Unique Lever Action

The Mare’s Leg is an outlier, but a fascinating one. Legally classified as a handgun, this unique firearm is based on the classic Henry .22 action but features a cut-down stock and a shortened barrel. It’s the kind of firearm you might see in a classic Western, made famous by characters who needed a compact but powerful weapon.

This isn’t a practical choice for a first-time buyer or for hunting. It’s a novelty and a collector’s item, offering a completely different shooting experience. Aiming it effectively takes practice, as it’s too large to be fired like a traditional pistol and too small to be shouldered like a rifle.

For the enthusiast who already has their bases covered, a used Mare’s Leg is a fun addition to the collection. It’s a conversation starter and a unique piece of firearm design. Just be sure to understand and comply with all local and federal laws regarding handguns when purchasing one.

Inspecting a Used Henry: What to Look For

Buying used gear is a smart way to save money, but a little due diligence goes a long way. When you find a promising Henry .22, take a few minutes to give it a thorough inspection. A good rifle will feel solid and smooth, while a neglected one will often have tell-tale signs of abuse.

First, check the action. With the seller’s permission and ensuring the firearm is unloaded, work the lever several times. It should be slick and smooth, without any grit, binding, or hesitation. A classic Henry action is famously smooth, so any roughness is a red flag that could indicate internal rust or damage. Also, test the trigger and hammer function.

Next, you must inspect the bore and muzzle crown. Use a bore light to look down the barrel from the chamber end if possible. You’re looking for a shiny bore with sharp rifling. Avoid any rifles with dark rings, bulges, or significant pitting, as these can affect safety and accuracy. The muzzle crown—the very end of the barrel—should be sharp and free of dings or dents, as damage here can ruin the rifle’s precision.

Finally, give the entire rifle a visual and physical once-over.

• Wood Furniture: Look for deep cracks in the stock or forend, especially around the wrist (where the stock meets the receiver). Minor dings and scratches are normal cosmetic wear, but structural cracks are a serious problem.
• Metal Finish: Check for significant rust, not just surface freckling. Pay close attention to where the wood meets the metal, as this area can trap moisture.
• Screws: Make sure the screw heads aren’t heavily damaged or "buggered up," which can indicate improper disassembly by a previous owner.

Ultimately, any of these Henry rifles, when cared for, will outlast their original owner. The best choice is the one that fits your needs and gets you out to the range or into the woods. Don’t get bogged down in finding a flawless rifle; find a solid, functional one and go make some memories with it.