The Enduring Appeal of the Henry H004 Golden Boy: A Masterpiece of American Craftsmanship

For generations, the lever action rifle has stood as a quintessential symbol of American ingenuity and the pioneering spirit. Among the pantheon of iconic firearms, the Henry Golden Boy, particularly the H004 model, shines as a beacon of this rich heritage, blending classic aesthetics with reliable, modern performance. Whether you're a seasoned shooting enthusiast, a new shooter eager to learn, or someone looking to introduce the next generation to the joys of the shooting sports, the Henry Golden Boy H004 offers an unparalleled experience. It's more than just a rifle; it's a testament to fine gunsmithing and a heirloom-quality firearm designed to create lasting memories.

Discovering the Henry Golden Boy H004: A Closer Look at its Unmatched Design

What immediately captures the eye when encountering a Henry Golden Boy is its breathtaking visual elegance. The H004 model embodies this distinction with a harmonious blend of materials that evoke a sense of timeless beauty.

A Symphony of Brasslite and American Walnut:
At the heart of its aesthetic appeal lies the gleaming Brasslite receiver and matching barrel band. This distinctive finish isn't merely decorative; it provides a durable, lustrous surface that stands out on any range or in any collection. Paired with this radiant brasslite is a stunning American walnut stock, renowned for its rich grain, warm color, and inherent strength. The stock is meticulously crafted, offering an excellent fit that feels natural and comfortable in the shooter's hands. The brass buttplate further complements the receiver, rounding out an appearance that is truly a masterpiece of form and function. This careful selection of materials ensures that the H004 Golden Boy isn't just a tool, but an object of admiration.

The Iconic Octagonal Barrel:
Adding to its historic authenticity and visual flair is the blued octagonal barrel. This design choice isn't just for looks; the octagonal profile provides increased rigidity and a greater surface area for heat dissipation, contributing to enhanced accuracy, especially during extended shooting sessions. The deep bluing of the barrel contrasts beautifully with the brasslite receiver, creating a classic, distinguished profile that echoes the legendary firearms of the Old West. With a 20-inch barrel length, the H004 strikes an ideal balance, offering ample sight radius for precision while maintaining excellent maneuverability.

Unpacking the Performance: Precision, Versatility, and Smooth Operation

The beauty of the Henry Golden Boy H004 extends far beyond its exquisite looks. It's engineered for performance, reliability, and an exceptionally smooth shooting experience that caters to a wide range of shooting disciplines.

Versatile Caliber and Capacity:
One of the most appealing features of the Henry H004 is its remarkable versatility in ammunition. Chambered for .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 LR (Long Rifle) cartridges, this rifle provides shooters with a cost-effective and adaptable platform. Whether you prefer the quiet plink of a .22 Short, the balanced performance of a .22 Long, or the widely available and potent .22 LR, the Golden Boy handles them all with ease. The tubular magazine boasts an impressive capacity, holding up to 16 rounds of .22 LR or an astounding 21 rounds of .22 Short. This high capacity means more shooting and less reloading, perfect for extended plinking sessions, target practice, or small game hunting.

Effortless Lever Action:
Henry rifles are celebrated for their exceptionally smooth action, and the H004 Golden Boy is no exception. The lever opens and closes with an effortless slickness that is a joy to operate. This fluid mechanical operation ensures reliable feeding and ejection, minimizing distractions and allowing the shooter to maintain focus on the target. This characteristic smooth action is a hallmark of Henry's commitment to quality and is often a deciding factor for those seeking a truly premium lever action experience.

Pinpoint Accuracy and User-Friendly Sights:
Accuracy is paramount for any rifle, and the Henry Golden Boy delivers. It balances remarkably well, making for highly accurate offhand shooting, even for novice shooters. The sighting system contributes significantly to this precision:

• Front Sight: A prominent brass bead front sight provides a clear and intuitive aiming point.
• Rear Sight: An adjustable buckhorn-type rear sight allows for precise elevation and windage adjustments, enabling shooters to fine-tune their aim for various distances and conditions. This traditional sighting system is highly effective and simple to use, reinforcing the rifle's classic appeal. The twist rate of 1:16" further optimizes the rifle for stabilizing a wide range of .22 caliber bullet weights, enhancing overall accuracy.

Why the Henry Golden Boy H004 is an Ideal Choice for Diverse Shooters

The Henry H004 Golden Boy isn't just a beautiful firearm; it's a practical and versatile tool suited for numerous applications and shooter profiles.

Perfect for Beginners and Youth Shooters:
Are you searching for "the best rifle for a new shooter" or "a reliable first firearm for youth"? The Henry Golden Boy H004 frequently comes up as a top recommendation. Here’s why:

• Low Recoil: The .22 rimfire cartridge produces minimal recoil, making it comfortable and non-intimidaing for new shooters to learn proper fundamentals without flinching.
• Simple Operation: The lever action mechanism is straightforward to understand and operate, fostering confidence in beginners.
• Affordable Ammunition: .22 LR ammunition is one of the most economical calibers, allowing for extensive practice without breaking the bank.
• Safety Features: Equipped with a 1/4 cock safety, the rifle prioritizes user safety, allowing the hammer to be partially cocked for carrying with a round in the chamber, providing an additional layer of security before firing.

An Excellent Rifle for Plinking and Recreational Shooting:
For those who enjoy "backyard plinking" or casual range sessions, the H004 is an absolute delight. Its high capacity and smooth action ensure hours of uninterrupted fun. The classic aesthetics also add to the enjoyment, turning every shot into a nostalgic experience.

Effective for Small Game Hunting:
Looking for "a reliable .22 for squirrels or rabbits"? The Henry Golden Boy's accuracy, quiet operation with certain loads, and sufficient power from the .22 LR make it an effective tool for ethical small game hunting. Its lightweight design (6.75 lbs) and manageable 38.50" overall length (OAL) make it comfortable to carry in the field.

A Valued Addition to Any Collection:
For collectors and enthusiasts, the H004 Golden Boy is a must-have. Its meticulous craftsmanship, classic design, and reliable performance make it a centerpiece. Many owners consider it a family heirloom, passed down through generations, embodying tradition and the love of shooting.

Left-Handed Friendly Design:
Unlike some firearm designs, Henry's lever action rifles are renowned for their ambidextrous nature. Left-handed shooters can safely and comfortably use any of Henry's lever action rifles, including the Golden Boy, without issue, making it a truly inclusive option for all shooters.

Maintaining Your Henry Golden Boy H004: Tips for Longevity

To ensure your Henry Golden Boy maintains its stunning appearance and reliable performance for years to come, proper care is essential. Regular cleaning and maintenance will protect its valuable components.

Barrel Cleaning:
Use a quality .22 caliber bore cleaner and brush to remove powder residue and lead fouling from the octagonal blued barrel. Always clean from the breech whenever possible to protect the muzzle crown.

Receiver Care:
The Brasslite receiver, while durable, benefits from occasional polishing with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive metal polish designed for brass or plated finishes to maintain its gleam. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.

Wood Stock Maintenance:
The American walnut stock can be wiped down with a clean, dry cloth after use. For deeper cleaning or to restore its luster, use a wood-specific firearm oil or wax, ensuring it's safe for gun stocks.

Action Lubrication:
A light coating of gun oil on the moving parts of the lever action mechanism will ensure its continued smooth operation. Refer to the owner's manual for specific lubrication points.

Storage:
Store your Henry Golden Boy in a dry, temperature-controlled environment, ideally in a padded gun case or cabinet, to prevent rust and dings.

By following these simple guidelines, your Henry H004 Golden Boy will remain a cherished and functional firearm, ready for action whenever you are.

The Enduring Legacy of Henry Repeating Arms

The Henry Golden Boy H004 is more than just a product; it's a continuation of a proud American legacy. Henry Repeating Arms stands by its motto: "Made in America, or not made at all." This commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures a high standard of quality, precision, and craftsmanship that resonates with discerning shooters. Every Henry rifle is a testament to the dedication of skilled American workers who pour their expertise into creating firearms that are reliable, beautiful, and built to last. When you choose a Henry Golden Boy, you're not just purchasing a rifle; you're investing in a piece of American history and supporting a tradition of excellence.

Common Questions and Scenarios Answered by the Henry Golden Boy H004

• What is the best .22 rifle for general purpose shooting? The Henry Golden Boy H004's versatility with .22 S/L/LR ammunition, high capacity, and balance of accuracy and ease of use make it an excellent choice for a wide array of shooting activities, from target practice to small game.
• How do I introduce someone new to shooting sports safely and enjoyably? With its minimal recoil, simple lever action, and classic design, the H004 is an ideal training rifle. Its engaging aesthetic helps maintain interest, while the inherent safety features of a lever action make it a responsible choice for instruction.
• I want a rifle that looks classic but performs reliably. Does the Henry Golden Boy fit that? Absolutely. The H004 flawlessly marries the iconic look of Old West firearms with modern manufacturing precision, ensuring both stunning appearance and dependable performance shot after shot.
• Is the Henry Golden Boy accurate enough for competition? While primarily a recreational and hunting rifle, the H004's adjustable sights, octagonal barrel, and precise manufacturing allow for impressive accuracy, making it suitable for casual target competitions and challenging yourself on the range.
• What are the key features that make the Henry H004 unique among .22 rifles? Its distinctive Brasslite receiver, American walnut stock, blued octagonal barrel, and the legendary smooth Henry lever action set it apart as a premium rimfire rifle. Its ability to feed .22 Short, Long, and LR also adds to its unique versatility.

The Henry H004 Golden Boy is truly a rifle that embodies the spirit of American shooting. It offers an experience that is both deeply satisfying and endlessly enjoyable, solidifying its place as a beloved firearm for generations to come.

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Henry H004 Golden Boy Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Henry
Model	Golden Boy H004
Caliber	22 Short, 22 Long, 22 LR
Capacity	16 (.22 LR) / 21 (.22 Short)
Action	Lever Action
Barrel	20" Octagon, Blued Finish
Sights	Brass Bead Front / Adj. Semi-Buckhorn Rear
Stock	American Walnut, Brown Finish
Receiver	Brasslite
Weight	6.75 lbs
Overall Length	38.50"
Length of Pull	14"
Twist Rate	1:16"
Safety	1/4 Cock
Hand	Right Hand (Ambidextrous Use)
SKU	H004
UPC	619835006004