The Henry Big Boy Side Gate Rifle: A Modern Classic for Discerning Shooters

Are you searching for a firearm that seamlessly blends the timeless appeal of a classic lever action with modern conveniences and robust performance? For enthusiasts, hunters, and collectors who appreciate American craftsmanship and versatile functionality, the Henry H012GCCC Big Boy Side Gate rifle chambered in .45 Colt (LC) stands out as an exceptional choice. This rifle isn't just a tool; it's an heirloom-quality piece designed for real-world applications, from the deer stand to the shooting range, embodying Henry Repeating Arms' commitment to quality and innovation.

Many shooters often ask, "What makes a lever action rifle truly great?" Or, "Which rifle offers both traditional aesthetics and practical loading options?" The Henry Big Boy Side Gate directly addresses these questions by integrating two distinct loading methods: a traditional, removable tube magazine for safe and effortless unloading, alongside a modern side loading gate that allows for quick and convenient topping off of the magazine without disturbing your aim or interrupting your activity. This dual functionality offers unparalleled flexibility, distinguishing it from many other lever actions on the market.

Unparalleled Versatility and Performance in .45 Colt

The heart of this rifle's performance lies in its chambering: the venerable .45 Colt. This cartridge, with its rich history dating back to the Old West, remains incredibly relevant today due to its versatility and manageable recoil. It's a fantastic choice for a variety of scenarios:

• Hunting: The .45 Colt, especially with modern loads, is highly effective for medium-sized game such as deer, wild hogs, and even black bears at reasonable ranges. Its stopping power and bullet energy make it a reliable choice for ethical hunting.
• Target Shooting and Plinking: The relatively mild recoil of the .45 Colt makes extended range sessions enjoyable, allowing shooters to hone their skills without fatigue. Its wide availability of ammunition makes it a popular choice for recreational shooting.
• Home and Ranch Defense: While not a primary defensive rifle for everyone, the large-bore .45 Colt offers significant deterrent power. Its ease of handling in close quarters, combined with the rifle's overall reliability, makes it a viable option for personal and property defense.
• Cowboy Action Shooting: For those involved in the exciting sport of cowboy action shooting, the .45 Colt is a staple. The smooth action and classic appearance of the Big Boy Side Gate make it a natural fit for competitions, blending authentic feel with contemporary performance.

The 20-inch octagonal blued steel barrel contributes significantly to the rifle's accuracy and balance. Octagonal barrels are renowned for their rigidity and heat dissipation properties, which can lead to more consistent groupings over longer shooting sessions. This barrel length strikes an ideal balance, offering excellent ballistic performance for the .45 Colt cartridge while maintaining maneuverability in brush or dense woodland.

Exquisite Craftsmanship and Enduring Aesthetics

What truly sets the Henry H012GCCC apart is its stunning visual appeal and the meticulous attention to detail in its construction. This rifle is a testament to the art of firearm manufacturing, designed to be as beautiful as it is functional.

• American Walnut Furniture: The rifle features exquisite American walnut furniture, known for its rich grain patterns and durability. The stock and forend are adorned with intricate, deep checkering. This isn't just for show; the checkering ensures a firm, non-slip grip, even in challenging weather conditions or when wearing gloves, providing superior control and handling.
• Color Case Hardened Receiver: The receiver boasts a distinctive Color Case Hardened finish. This traditional metal treatment process not only creates a unique, vibrant, and iridescent pattern on each rifle, making every piece one-of-a-kind, but it also enhances the steel's surface hardness, providing additional durability and resistance to wear. The interplay of blues, purples, and browns on the receiver offers a striking contrast to the blued barrel and the warm tones of the walnut, creating a truly eye-catching firearm that harkens back to the golden age of American rifles.
• Classic Sighting System: Staying true to its heritage, the rifle is equipped with a classic brass bead front sight and an adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight. This traditional sighting system is robust, reliable, and provides excellent target acquisition for many shooting applications. It’s a familiar and effective setup for those who appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of iron sights.

Designed for the Shooter: Features That Matter

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Henry Big Boy Side Gate is engineered for practical use and comfortable handling. Its design incorporates features that enhance the shooting experience for both seasoned veterans and new enthusiasts.

• Smooth Lever Action: Henry rifles are renowned for their incredibly smooth and reliable lever actions. The H012GCCC is no exception, offering a fluid cycling motion that ensures rapid follow-up shots and consistent feeding. This reliability is crucial in hunting scenarios or competitive shooting where every second counts.
• Transfer Bar Safety: For enhanced safety, the rifle incorporates a modern 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 and offering peace of mind to the shooter.
• Balanced Ergonomics: With an overall length (OAL) of 37.50 inches and weighing 7.84 pounds, the rifle is well-balanced and comfortable to shoulder. The 14-inch length of pull (LOP) is designed to accommodate most shooters, promoting a natural and stable shooting posture. This thoughtful design minimizes fatigue during extended periods of carrying or shooting.
• Capacity: A generous capacity of 10+1 rounds means fewer reloads, allowing you to stay focused on your target or activity. Whether you're in the field or on the range, having ample ammunition readily available is a distinct advantage.

Why Choose a Henry Rifle?

When considering a new firearm, particularly a lever action, why do so many discerning buyers gravitate towards Henry Repeating Arms? The answer lies in their unwavering commitment to quality, American manufacturing, and customer satisfaction.

• "Made in America or Not Made at All": Henry Repeating Arms proudly manufactures its firearms in the USA, supporting American jobs and upholding a tradition of excellence in gunsmithing. This commitment translates into rigorous quality control and a product you can trust.
• Legendary Customer Service: Henry has built a reputation for outstanding customer service. Their "no-hassle" guarantee and dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction mean you're not just buying a rifle; you're joining a family of passionate shooters supported by a company that truly cares.
• Reliability and Durability: Henry rifles are built to last. Using high-quality materials and robust construction techniques, the Big Boy Side Gate is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and perform reliably for generations. This ensures a return on your investment far into the future.
• Investment Value: Beyond their utility, Henry rifles, especially those with unique features like color case hardening, tend to hold their value well and are often considered collectible items. They represent a piece of American firearms heritage.

Where to Acquire Your Henry Big Boy Side Gate

For those ready to experience the blend of tradition and innovation offered by the Henry H012GCCC Big Boy Side Gate, DEGuns.com is a trusted source. DEGuns provides a comprehensive selection of firearms, ensuring you can find the perfect model to meet your needs. Their commitment to customer service and secure transactions makes them an ideal partner for your next firearm purchase. When you’re ready to invest in a rifle that stands the test of time and delivers exceptional performance, look no further than the Henry Big Boy Side Gate, available through reputable dealers like DEGuns.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lever Action Rifles and the Henry Big Boy Side Gate

1. What is the primary advantage of a side gate loading system on a lever action?

   The side loading gate allows you to load cartridges directly into the magazine without removing the tube, making it faster to top off the rifle while in the field or during competition. It provides significant convenience and efficiency, especially for sustained shooting.

2. Is the .45 Colt (LC) cartridge powerful enough for hunting deer or hogs?

   Yes, with appropriate modern ammunition, the .45 Colt is very effective for hunting medium-sized game like deer and hogs at typical lever gun ranges (up to 100-150 yards). It delivers excellent terminal performance and is known for its stopping power.

3. How does the Color Case Hardened finish differ from other finishes?

   Color Case Hardening is a traditional heat-treating process that creates a hardened, durable surface on steel, while simultaneously producing unique, iridescent colors due to the interaction of carbon and gases. Each pattern is distinct, making every rifle a unique work of art, and it offers excellent wear resistance.

4. Can I mount an optic on the Henry Big Boy Side Gate H012GCCC?

   This specific model comes equipped with classic iron sights (brass bead front and adjustable semi-buckhorn rear). While Henry does offer models with scope mounts or drilled and tapped receivers, this particular configuration focuses on traditional sighting. Please consult the manufacturer's specifications or a qualified gunsmith regarding optic mounting options for this exact model if desired.

5. What kind of maintenance does a Henry lever action rifle require?

   Like all firearms, regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. Pay particular attention to the barrel, action, and any exposed metal surfaces. The American Walnut stock benefits from occasional wood treatment to preserve its finish. Always consult your owner's manual for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.

Henry Big Boy Side Gate Specifications (H012GCCC)

Feature	Detail
Brand	Henry
Model	Big Boy
Series	Side Gate
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
SKU	H012GCCC
UPC	619835200310
Action	Lever
Capacity	10+1 rounds
Barrel Length	20 inches
Barrel Type	Octagon
Barrel Finish	Blued
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Stock Material	American Walnut
Stock Finish	American Walnut
Sights	Brass Bead Front / Adj Semi-Buckhorn Rear
Overall Length	37.50 inches
Weight	7.84 lbs
Length of Pull	14 inches
Twist Rate	1:16"
Safety	Transfer Bar
Hand	Right Hand
Application	Field / Hunting