The Henry H012GML Big Boy Side Gate: A Modern Classic for Every Enthusiast

Are you in search of a versatile, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing lever-action rifle that seamlessly blends tradition with modern convenience? Do you need a single firearm capable of tackling diverse roles, from ethical hunting to enjoyable range plinking and even competitive shooting? Look no further than the Henry H012GML Big Boy Side Gate, a firearm that embodies the legendary quality and innovation of Henry Repeating Arms. This rifle isn't just a tool; it's a testament to American craftsmanship, designed for those who appreciate both timeless design and cutting-edge functionality.

The Henry Big Boy Side Gate H012GML stands out as a premier choice for anyone considering a lever-action rifle chambered in the potent and versatile .357 Magnum. This model is engineered to provide an unparalleled shooting experience, combining robust construction with thoughtful features that address the needs of today’s shooters and hunters. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman, a competitive shooter, a collector of fine firearms, or a new enthusiast eager to experience the enduring charm of a lever gun, this Henry rifle offers a compelling solution.

Unpacking the Innovation: Dual-Loading Versatility

One of the most defining and celebrated features of the Henry Big Boy Side Gate series, including the H012GML, is its innovative dual-loading system. This rifle offers the best of both worlds, providing shooters with two distinct methods for loading ammunition.

• Side Loading Gate: This traditional method allows you to conveniently load cartridges one by one directly into the magazine tube from the side of the receiver. This is particularly advantageous in scenarios where you need to quickly top off the magazine without interrupting your shooting flow, such as during hunting where a follow-up shot might be necessary, or in fast-paced shooting competitions. It keeps your rifle ready for action, allowing you to maintain a high magazine capacity with ease.
• Removable Tube Magazine: Henry's classic, time-tested removable tube magazine is also retained in this model. This feature provides an exceptionally safe and easy way to unload the rifle. Simply remove the inner magazine tube, and all cartridges can be safely poured out without cycling them through the action. This is invaluable for quickly verifying that the firearm is clear and for safe storage or transport. For many, this method is also preferred for initial loading before a shooting session.

This thoughtful combination ensures that the Henry H012GML offers supreme flexibility and convenience, distinguishing it from many other lever-action rifles on the market. It eliminates the compromise often faced by shooters between traditional side-loading efficiency and the safety/ease of unloading a tube-fed system.

Power and Precision: The .357 Magnum Advantage

The Henry H012GML is chambered in .357 Magnum, a cartridge renowned for its versatility and effectiveness when fired from a rifle-length barrel. This caliber gains significant ballistic advantages from a 20-inch barrel, including increased muzzle velocity and energy, making it suitable for a wider range of applications than when fired from a handgun.

• Hunting: The .357 Magnum is an excellent choice for hunting small to medium-sized game, including whitetail deer, hogs, and varmints, particularly in brushy environments where shots are typically at closer ranges. Its stopping power and relatively light recoil make it a highly effective brush gun.
• Plinking and Target Shooting: For recreational shooting, the ability to also chamber and fire the more economical .38 Special ammunition is a significant benefit. Shooting .38 Special reduces recoil even further, making for exceptionally comfortable and enjoyable extended range sessions, ideal for new shooters or those looking to hone their skills without fatigue.
• Home Defense: While often associated with hunting and sport, the .357 Magnum (especially with specific defensive loads) offers substantial power for personal and home protection. The lever-action format can be quick to deploy and operate effectively in confined spaces.
• Ammunition Versatility: The dual-caliber capability (.357 Mag / .38 Spl) provides immense flexibility in ammunition selection, allowing shooters to choose between powerful hunting rounds and lighter, more affordable practice ammunition.

The 20-inch blued steel barrel, a hallmark of Henry's commitment to accuracy, delivers the ballistic performance expected from this versatile cartridge. With a 1:16" twist rate, it is optimized to stabilize a wide range of bullet weights in both .357 Magnum and .38 Special, ensuring consistent accuracy downrange.

Craftsmanship and Aesthetics: The Henry Standard

Beyond its mechanical innovation, the Henry H012GML Big Boy Side Gate is a truly beautiful firearm, reflecting Henry's dedication to quality materials and classic design.

• American Walnut Furniture: The rifle features exquisite American Walnut furniture, known for its rich grain patterns and durability. This isn't just a functional stock; it's a piece of art that evokes the golden age of American firearms.
• Deep Checkering: The walnut stocks are enhanced with intricate, deep checkering. This not only adds to the rifle's traditional aesthetic but also provides a superior, non-slip grip, ensuring confident handling in all conditions, whether barehanded or with gloves.
• Blued Steel Finish: The receiver, barrel, and other metal components boast a deep, lustrous blued finish. This classic treatment provides excellent corrosion resistance and contributes to the rifle's elegant, timeless appearance.
• Large Loop Lever: The distinctive large loop operating lever is a standout feature, offering both a unique visual flair and practical benefits. It allows for easier cycling of the action, especially when wearing gloves in cold weather or during rapid-fire scenarios common in cowboy action shooting.

Designed for Performance and Reliability

Every aspect of the Henry Big Boy Side Gate H012GML is engineered for optimal performance and unwavering reliability, a testament to Henry’s reputation for producing “rifles that are Made in America or Not Made at All.”

• Smooth Lever Action: Henry lever actions are legendary for their buttery-smooth operation. The H012GML is no exception, allowing for rapid and effortless cycling of rounds, enhancing both the shooting experience and practical efficiency.
• Robust Steel Receiver: The rifle's receiver is crafted from solid steel, providing exceptional strength and durability, capable of withstanding the rigors of field use and ensuring a long service life.
• Transfer Bar Safety: For enhanced safety, the Henry H012GML incorporates a modern transfer bar safety system. This design 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 user.
• Classic Sighting System: The rifle comes equipped with a traditional and effective sighting system: a highly visible brass bead front sight paired with an adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight. This combination provides excellent clarity and allows for precise aiming, suitable for most hunting and shooting applications. For those who prefer optics, the receiver is also drilled and tapped for easy scope mounting, offering flexibility for different shooting preferences and conditions.

Who Is the Henry H012GML For?

This specific Henry Big Boy model addresses the needs and desires of a wide spectrum of firearm enthusiasts:

• Hunters: Ideal for deer, hog, and general medium game hunting, especially in dense brush where quick, close-range shots are common. Its compact OAL of 37.50 inches makes it maneuverable.
• Sport Shooters and Plinkers: Offers endless hours of enjoyment at the range, with the option to use affordable .38 Special ammunition for practice and reduced recoil. The smooth action and classic feel make it a joy to shoot.
• Cowboy Action Shooters: The combination of a large loop lever, traditional aesthetics, and rapid cycling makes it a superb choice for competitive cowboy action shooting events.
• Collectors and Enthusiasts: A beautiful addition to any collection, representing a pinnacle of modern lever-action design with a nod to historical firearms. Henry's commitment to quality ensures it will be a cherished piece.
• Backwoods & Survival Enthusiasts: The versatility of the .357 Mag/.38 Spl caliber, coupled with the rifle's rugged reliability, makes it a strong candidate for a multi-purpose survival or bug-out rifle.

Why Choose Henry Repeating Arms?

When investing in a firearm, the brand behind the product matters significantly. Henry Repeating Arms has cultivated an unparalleled reputation for quality, customer service, and American manufacturing.

• "Made in America or Not Made at All": This is Henry's steadfast motto, reflecting their commitment to domestic manufacturing and supporting American jobs. This dedication translates into meticulous quality control and a product built with pride.
• Legendary Reliability: Henry rifles are renowned for their rugged durability and consistent performance. They are built to last generations, becoming treasured family heirlooms.
• Unmatched Customer Service: Henry stands behind its products with a commitment to customer satisfaction that is second to none.
• Exceptional Value: While offering premium features and craftsmanship, Henry rifles provide outstanding value, making them accessible to a broad range of enthusiasts.

The Henry H012GML Big Boy Side Gate in .357 Magnum is more than just a rifle; it's an experience. It’s the satisfying thunk of a cartridge sliding into the side gate, the smooth throw of the lever, and the precise shot placement that only a quality firearm can deliver. It’s a firearm that bridges the gap between cherished history and practical modern utility, ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.

This exceptional rifle, the Henry H012GML, is available through trusted firearms retailers like DEGuns.com, where you can find this and other high-quality firearms to meet your shooting and hunting needs.

Technical Specifications & Key Features

To further aid in your decision, here’s a detailed look at the specifications of the Henry H012GML Big Boy Side Gate:

Feature	Specification
Brand	Henry
Model	Big Boy Side Gate
SKU	H012GML
UPC	619835200396
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Special
Action	Lever
Capacity	10+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	20 inches
Barrel Finish	Blued Steel
Barrel Description	Steel
Twist Rate	1:16"
Overall Length	37.50 inches
Weight	7.0 lbs
Stock Material	American Walnut
Stock Finish	American Walnut
Receiver Material	Steel
Receiver Finish	Blued
Sights	Brass Bead Front / Adj. Semi-Buckhorn Rear
Hand	Right Hand
Length of Pull	14 inches
Safety	Transfer Bar
Application	Field, Hunting, Sport Shooting
Series	Side Gate
Size	Full Size