The Henry Big Boy Side Gate: A Masterpiece of Lever Action Engineering for Discerning Shooters

For generations, the lever action rifle has been an undeniable symbol of American ingenuity, a classic firearm synonymous with reliability, ruggedness, and a timeless aesthetic. Among the pantheon of these iconic rifles, the Henry Big Boy series stands out, particularly the Henry H012GM Big Boy Side Gate model, chambered in the versatile .38 Special and .357 Magnum calibers. This full-size rifle isn't just a nod to tradition; it seamlessly blends cherished historical design with modern functional enhancements, making it a truly exceptional choice for a wide array of shooting applications.

Are you searching for a dependable hunting rifle? Do you need a robust firearm for home defense? Perhaps you're a target shooter looking for a high-capacity lever action that offers both precision and a satisfying shooting experience? Or maybe you're a firearms enthusiast who appreciates the artistry and craftsmanship of a truly American-made firearm? The Henry Big Boy Side Gate H012GM answers these needs with unparalleled elegance and performance.

Unpacking the Innovation: Dual Loading System and Peerless Craftsmanship

What truly sets the Henry H012GM Big Boy Side Gate apart from many traditional lever action rifles is its innovative dual-loading system. Henry Repeating Arms, renowned for their dedication to quality and user-centric design, has ingeniously incorporated both a traditional side loading gate and their standard removable tube magazine.

• Side Loading Gate: This feature allows shooters to quickly and easily top off the magazine without interrupting their shooting stance or removing the rifle from their shoulder. Whether you're in the field, on the range, or in a competitive shooting scenario, the ability to add rounds on the fly is a significant advantage, enhancing sustained fire capability and overall readiness.
• Removable Tube Magazine: Retaining Henry's signature removable tube magazine offers the practical benefit of safe and straightforward unloading. This means you can quickly and effortlessly empty the rifle without cycling each round through the action, a crucial safety feature and convenience often overlooked in traditional side-gate-only designs. This "best of both worlds" approach truly caters to the modern shooter while respecting the classic lever action heritage.

Beyond its innovative loading mechanism, the H012GM Big Boy Side Gate is a testament to superior American craftsmanship. The rifle boasts exquisite American walnut furniture, known for its rich grain, durability, and classic appeal. This isn't just a cosmetic choice; the wood is set off by intricate, deep checkering on both the forend and pistol grip. This thoughtful design ensures a firm and comfortable purchase on the stocks, providing enhanced control and confidence, whether you're taking a precise shot or handling the rifle during rapid fire. The deep checkering prevents slippage, even in adverse weather conditions or when wearing gloves, making it a reliable companion in any environment.

The rifle's core is built for enduring performance. It features a robust blued steel receiver, which not only provides a classic, attractive finish but also offers exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. Paired with a 20-inch round blued steel barrel, this combination ensures the legendary accuracy and reliability that shooters have come to expect from Henry firearms. The 20-inch barrel length strikes an ideal balance, offering sufficient sight radius and ballistic performance for the .357 Magnum and .38 Special calibers, while maintaining a maneuverable overall length of 37.50 inches. This makes the rifle surprisingly agile in dense brush or confined spaces, yet stable enough for precise long-range shots.

Caliber Versatility: The Power of .357 Magnum and the Practicality of .38 Special

One of the most compelling attributes of the Henry H012GM is its dual-caliber compatibility, firing both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition. This versatility unlocks a world of possibilities for the shooter:

• .357 Magnum: When maximum power is required, the .357 Magnum delivers. It's an excellent choice for hunting medium-sized game like deer, wild hogs, or coyotes at moderate ranges. Its superior ballistic performance and stopping power make it a potent cartridge for ethical hunting. The 1:16" twist rate of the barrel is optimized to stabilize a wide range of bullet weights typically found in .357 Magnum loads, ensuring superb accuracy.
• .38 Special: For lighter recoil, less noise, and more economical target practice, the .38 Special is an ideal companion. This allows for extended range sessions without fatigue and is perfect for introducing new shooters to the world of firearms. The ability to switch between these calibers offers unmatched flexibility, allowing the shooter to tailor their ammunition choice to the specific task at hand, whether it's hunting, plinking, or self-defense. This dual-caliber functionality is a significant value proposition, essentially giving you two distinct shooting experiences in one exceptional rifle.

Designed for Performance: Sights, Safety, and Capacity

Accuracy is paramount for any rifle, and the Henry H012GM is equipped with a classic and highly effective sighting system. It features a brass bead front sight that provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, allowing for quick target acquisition. This is complemented by an adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight, which permits precise elevation adjustments, ensuring shot placement can be finely tuned for different distances and ammunition types. This traditional sight setup is robust, reliable, and perfectly suited for the rifle's intended applications, offering intuitive aiming for both new and experienced shooters.

Safety is always a primary concern, and Henry has incorporated a reliable transfer bar safety system. This mechanism prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled, significantly reducing the risk of accidental discharge. This design ensures that the rifle is safe to carry and handle, providing peace of mind to the user.

With a capacity of 10+1 rounds, the Henry Big Boy Side Gate offers ample firepower for hunting expeditions, extended target shooting sessions, or even defensive scenarios. The higher capacity means less time spent reloading and more time focused on the task at hand, whether it's tracking game or improving your marksmanship. The smooth lever action cycles rounds effortlessly, contributing to a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience.

Who Can Benefit from the Henry Big Boy Side Gate H012GM?

This rifle is a versatile tool, suitable for a broad spectrum of users and activities:

• Hunters: The .357 Magnum chambering, combined with its accuracy and manageable size, makes it an excellent choice for hunting deer, wild boar, and other medium-sized game in various terrains, including brushy areas or open fields.
• Sport Shooters & Target Enthusiasts: Whether you participate in Cowboy Action Shooting, plinking at the range, or honing your precision shooting skills, the Henry Big Boy Side Gate offers a satisfying and accurate platform. The .38 Special option provides an economical way to enjoy extended shooting sessions.
• Home Defense: The ability to chamber both .357 Magnum for significant stopping power and the more manageable .38 Special for reduced recoil makes this rifle a viable option for home defense. Its overall length and capacity provide a good balance for close-quarters situations while maintaining sufficient power.
• Collectors and Firearm Aficionados: The timeless design, superior American walnut, blued steel finish, and Henry's reputation for quality make this rifle a desirable addition to any collection. It's a firearm that will be cherished for generations, combining historical appeal with modern utility.
• New Shooters: While a full-size rifle, the .38 Special option offers a softer recoil impulse, making it a more comfortable entry point for those new to rifle shooting, allowing them to build confidence before transitioning to the more powerful .357 Magnum.

Why Choose a Henry Rifle?

Henry Repeating Arms is a brand synonymous with "Made in America, or Not Made at All." Their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction is unparalleled. When you invest in a Henry rifle, you're not just buying a firearm; you're acquiring a piece of American heritage, built by skilled American workers, and backed by a company that stands behind its products. Henry rifles are known for their:

• Exceptional Accuracy: Each Henry rifle is designed and manufactured to deliver consistent, repeatable accuracy, shot after shot.
• Unwavering Reliability: Henry firearms are built tough, engineered to perform flawlessly in a wide range of conditions, ensuring that they are ready when you need them most.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The classic lines, beautiful American walnut, and deep blued finishes make Henry rifles truly beautiful objects, reflecting a bygone era of craftsmanship while embracing modern manufacturing precision.
• Strong Resale Value: Henry rifles consistently hold their value, making them a wise long-term investment for any firearms owner.

The Henry H012GM Big Boy Side Gate in .38 Special/.357 Magnum embodies all these qualities, offering a perfect blend of nostalgic appeal and contemporary functionality. Its robust steel receiver and barrel, combined with the elegant American walnut stock, ensure it's not only a pleasure to shoot but also a firearm built to last for decades of reliable service. The rifle's 7-pound weight contributes to its stable shooting platform and helps absorb recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even with full-power .357 Magnum loads. Its 14-inch length of pull is standard, fitting most shooters comfortably.

This rifle is more than just a tool; it's an experience. It evokes the spirit of the American frontier while providing the practical advantages needed by today's shooters. For those seeking the best lever action rifle for hunting, target shooting, or simply owning a beautiful piece of American engineering, the Henry Big Boy Side Gate H012GM stands as an exemplary choice.

For those interested in acquiring this exceptional firearm, the Henry H012GM Big Boy Side Gate is available at trusted retailers like DEGuns.com. DEGuns offers a wide selection of Henry rifles, ensuring you can find the perfect model to meet your specific needs. Experience the blend of tradition and innovation that only Henry Repeating Arms can deliver.

Detailed Specifications: Henry H012GM Big Boy Side Gate

Feature	Detail
Brand	Henry
Series	Side Gate
Model	Big Boy
Caliber	.357 Mag / .38 Special
Capacity	10+1
Action	Lever
Barrel Length	20"
Barrel Finish	Blued
Barrel Material	Steel
Barrel Description	Round, Steel
Twist Rate	1:16"
Overall Length (OAL)	37.50"
Weight	7 lbs
Receiver Material	Steel
Receiver Finish	Blued
Stock Material	American Walnut
Stock Finish	American Walnut
Stock Finish Group	Brown
Length of Pull	14"
Sights	Brass Bead Front / Adj Semi-Buckhorn Rear
Safety	Transfer Bar
Hand	Right Hand
Size	Full Size
Application	Field
SKU	H012GM
UPC	619835200365