Categories:
The Henry Golden Boy stands as one of the most instantly recognizable lever-action rifles ever made — a true American classic that blends timeless Western styling with smooth modern performance. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, this rifle is equally at home on the range, in the woods, or proudly displayed on the wall. With its mirror-polished brass receiver, walnut stock, and smooth action, the Golden Boy delivers both form and function for plinking, small-game hunting, and collecting.
Introduced by Henry Repeating Arms in the late 1990s, the Golden Boy was designed as a tribute to the golden age of lever-action rifles. Its gleaming brasslite receiver, octagonal barrel, and American walnut furniture evoke the spirit of the Old West, while modern engineering ensures smooth operation, accuracy, and reliability. Today, it’s a favorite among plinkers, collectors, and small-game hunters who appreciate fine craftsmanship paired with affordable fun.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle |
| Action | Lever-action, tubular magazine fed |
| Barrel Length | 20″ blued steel octagonal barrel |
| Overall Length | 38.5″ |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~6.75 lb |
| Magazine Capacity | 16 rounds (.22 LR), 21 rounds (.22 Short) |
| Receiver | Brasslite with solid brass buttplate and barrel band |
| Stock | American walnut |
| Sights | Semi-buckhorn rear, brass bead front |
| Finish | Blued barrel, polished brass receiver |
| Safety | Internal transfer bar safety |
The Golden Boy is built with exceptional attention to detail. The polished brass receiver and buttplate contrast beautifully with the deep blued octagonal barrel and rich walnut stock. Its lever-action is silky smooth right out of the box — a hallmark of Henry craftsmanship — and the rifle cycles .22 LR, .22 Long, or .22 Short interchangeably for added versatility.
Every component is American-made, from the wood furniture to the precision-machined receiver, ensuring not only pride of ownership but also long-lasting reliability. The rifle’s robust tubular magazine feeds consistently and quietly, ideal for small-game hunters who value discretion.
The Golden Boy’s mirror-polished Brasslite receiver is its defining feature — giving it a vintage aesthetic reminiscent of the rifles carried by cowboys and pioneers. This finish also provides corrosion resistance and unmatched visual appeal.
The 20″ octagonal blued steel barrel isn’t just beautiful — it offers a solid, steady sight picture and excellent balance, improving offhand accuracy during plinking or small-game hunts.
Henry’s reputation for smooth cycling is well-earned. The action operates fluidly, requiring minimal effort, making it a favorite for new shooters and seasoned riflemen alike.
The rifle feeds and fires **.22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 LR** interchangeably — perfect for low-cost shooting or adjusting power levels for different tasks.
From its brass accents to its traditional walnut stock, the Golden Boy captures the nostalgic magic of the frontier era — all while maintaining the precision and quality expected from a modern firearm.
The Golden Boy delivers **excellent accuracy** thanks to its long sight radius, crisp trigger, and rigid barrel construction. For plinking or small-game hunting within 100 yards, it performs with consistent precision and confidence.
With its mild .22 LR chambering, the Golden Boy is virtually **recoil-free**, making it perfect for beginners, youth shooters, or those who simply enjoy relaxed shooting sessions. The rifle’s smooth lever throw and well-balanced frame enhance control and comfort.
Henry rifles are famous for their **reliability and simplicity**. The Golden Boy’s straightforward lever-action mechanism is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring decades of dependable operation.
The Golden Boy’s low-pressure rimfire design makes it easy to maintain. Regularly clean the bore, chamber, and bolt face, and wipe down the brass receiver with a soft cloth after handling. Avoid harsh abrasives — a bit of brass polish keeps the rifle looking stunning for generations. Henry’s simple design means you’ll spend more time shooting and less time on maintenance.
The Henry Golden Boy is more than just a rifle — it’s a work of art that happens to shoot incredibly well. From its gleaming brass receiver to its silky-smooth lever action, the Golden Boy embodies the best of American craftsmanship. Whether you’re introducing a new shooter to the sport, hunting small game, or adding an heirloom-quality rifle to your collection, the Golden Boy delivers timeless charm and dependable performance in every shot.
Disclaimer: Always comply with local laws and safe-handling practices when purchasing or using rifles. This article is for informational purposes only.
