Hey guys! Today, let's dive deep into the Henry Lever Action 357 Golden Boy. If you're anything like me, you appreciate a firearm that combines classic aesthetics with modern performance. The Henry Golden Boy in .357 Magnum certainly fits that bill. This rifle isn't just a looker; it’s a smooth-shooting, accurate, and reliable piece that’s as fun on the range as it is beautiful to display. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to lever-action rifles, there's plenty to appreciate about this iconic firearm. In this review, we'll cover everything from its historical roots to its modern-day functionality, so you can decide if it deserves a spot in your collection. This rifle really shines when you consider its build quality and smooth action, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Plus, the .357 Magnum chambering offers a versatile shooting experience, suitable for everything from target practice to small game hunting. Stick around as we explore every facet of this remarkable rifle.

First Impressions: Unboxing the Golden Boy

When you first unbox the Henry Golden Boy 357, you're immediately struck by its appearance. The gleaming receiver, the rich bluing of the barrel, and the beautifully finished wood stock all scream quality. The rifle feels substantial in your hands, giving you confidence in its build. Picking up the Henry Golden Boy is like stepping back in time. The brasslite receiver and barrel band immediately catch the eye, lending a touch of elegance rarely seen in modern firearms. The American walnut stock is smoothly finished and feels great in your hands, providing a comfortable and secure grip. As you cycle the action, you'll notice how smooth and precise it feels. This isn't just a rifle; it's a piece of art that you can actually shoot. One of the first things you'll want to do is run a patch through the barrel to remove any factory oil or debris. Then, load up the magazine and get ready for some fun! The rifle's overall fit and finish are excellent, with no noticeable gaps or rough edges. This attention to detail is what sets Henry Repeating Arms apart from many other manufacturers. You can tell that they take pride in their craftsmanship, and it shows in every aspect of the Golden Boy. The rifle's weight also contributes to its solid feel, helping to dampen recoil and improve accuracy. It's a rifle that you'll be proud to own and pass down to future generations. This is a rifle that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well. The combination of aesthetics and functionality makes it a standout choice for any shooter.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features of the Henry Golden Boy 357. The specifications include a .357 Magnum chambering (also capable of shooting .38 Special), a 20-inch blued steel octagonal barrel, a brasslite receiver, and a beautiful American walnut stock. It has a capacity of 10 rounds in its tubular magazine. The rifle weighs around 6.75 pounds, making it easy to handle. The adjustable rear sight and brass bead front sight offer excellent target acquisition. The smooth lever action is a hallmark of Henry rifles, providing quick and reliable cycling. The overall length is 39 inches, making it a comfortable size for most shooters. The rifle also features a traditional half-cock safety, adding to its classic design. The barrel's rifling is optimized for both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds, ensuring accuracy with either cartridge. The brass buttplate adds another touch of elegance and helps to protect the stock. The rifle is also drilled and tapped for scope mounts, allowing you to easily add optics if desired. Henry's attention to detail extends to the internal components as well, with a focus on reliability and durability. The parts are well-machined and fit together perfectly, ensuring smooth operation and long-lasting performance. The Golden Boy is designed to be easy to maintain, with simple disassembly for cleaning and lubrication. This makes it a practical choice for both casual shooters and serious enthusiasts. The combination of classic design, modern features, and high-quality construction makes the Henry Golden Boy a truly exceptional rifle. This is a rifle that will provide years of enjoyment and reliable performance.

Performance at the Range

When it comes to performance, the Henry Golden Boy 357 truly shines at the range. The smooth lever action allows for rapid follow-up shots, and the rifle is surprisingly accurate, even with iron sights. The .357 Magnum rounds deliver a satisfying punch, while the .38 Special rounds are perfect for extended shooting sessions with less recoil. Taking the Henry Golden Boy to the range is always a pleasure. The rifle's weight helps to absorb recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even with the more powerful .357 Magnum rounds. The smooth lever action allows you to cycle rounds quickly and efficiently, keeping you on target. Accuracy is impressive, with consistent groupings at 50 yards and beyond. The adjustable sights make it easy to fine-tune your point of impact, ensuring that you're hitting your mark every time. One of the best things about the Golden Boy is its versatility. You can shoot .357 Magnum rounds for hunting or self-defense, or switch to .38 Special rounds for target practice or plinking. The rifle handles both cartridges with ease, making it a great all-around firearm. The trigger pull is crisp and clean, contributing to the rifle's overall accuracy. The trigger breaks consistently, allowing you to maintain a steady aim. The Golden Boy is also relatively quiet, especially when shooting .38 Special rounds. This makes it a good choice for shooting in areas where noise is a concern. The rifle's reliability is also noteworthy. It cycles rounds smoothly and consistently, with no jams or malfunctions. This is a testament to Henry's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a beginner, you'll appreciate the Henry Golden Boy's performance at the range. It's a rifle that's both fun and accurate, making it a great addition to any collection. This rifle's performance is truly exceptional, making it a joy to shoot every time.

Pros and Cons

Like any firearm, the Henry Golden Boy 357 has its pros and cons.

Pros:

• Beautiful design and finish
• Smooth lever action
• Accurate and reliable
• Versatile chambering (.357 Magnum/.38 Special)
• Comfortable to shoot

Cons:

• Tubular magazine can be slow to load
• Brasslite receiver is not as durable as steel
• Price point may be high for some

Let's dive deeper into these points. The Henry Golden Boy is undeniably a beautiful rifle. Its classic design and high-quality finish make it a standout piece in any collection. The smooth lever action is a joy to use, allowing for quick and reliable cycling. Accuracy is excellent, with consistent groupings at various distances. The versatile chambering allows you to shoot both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds, making it a great all-around firearm. The rifle is also comfortable to shoot, thanks to its weight and well-designed stock. However, the tubular magazine can be slow to load, especially compared to detachable magazines. The brasslite receiver, while beautiful, is not as durable as steel and may be more prone to scratches and dings. The price point may be high for some, but the quality and craftsmanship justify the investment. Overall, the pros outweigh the cons, making the Henry Golden Boy a worthwhile purchase for those who appreciate classic design and reliable performance. This rifle truly shines in its ability to blend aesthetics with functionality. It's a rifle that you'll be proud to own and shoot for years to come. The few drawbacks are minor compared to the overall quality and performance of the rifle. This is a firearm that will hold its value and provide years of enjoyment.

Final Verdict: Is the Golden Boy Worth It?

So, is the Henry Golden Boy 357 worth it? Absolutely! If you're looking for a beautiful, reliable, and accurate lever-action rifle, this is a fantastic choice. It's perfect for target shooting, small game hunting, or simply displaying as a piece of art. The Henry Golden Boy is more than just a rifle; it's an heirloom. Its classic design and high-quality construction ensure that it will last for generations. The smooth lever action and accurate performance make it a joy to shoot, while its beautiful appearance makes it a standout piece in any collection. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a beginner, you'll appreciate the Henry Golden Boy's charm and versatility. It's a rifle that you can be proud to own and pass down to your children or grandchildren. The .357 Magnum chambering offers plenty of power for hunting small game, while the .38 Special rounds are perfect for target practice or plinking. The rifle is also relatively easy to maintain, with simple disassembly for cleaning and lubrication. The few drawbacks, such as the slow-loading tubular magazine, are minor compared to the overall quality and performance of the rifle. The price point may be high for some, but the investment is well worth it for those who appreciate fine firearms. The Henry Golden Boy is a true American classic, combining timeless design with modern performance. This is a rifle that will provide years of enjoyment and reliable service. If you're looking for a lever-action rifle that's both beautiful and functional, the Henry Golden Boy is an excellent choice. This rifle truly lives up to its name, delivering a golden experience for shooters of all levels.