The Enduring Appeal of the Henry H001 Lever Action .22 Rimfire Rifle: A Comprehensive Guide

For generations, the lever-action rifle has stood as an icon of American spirit and ingenuity. Among the contemporary torchbearers of this heritage, the Henry H001 Lever Action Rimfire Rifle by Henry Repeating Arms stands out as a true classic reimagined for today's shooter. This isn't just a firearm; it's an experience, a reliable companion for countless hours of enjoyment, and a testament to quality American manufacturing.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast looking for a nostalgic plinker, a parent seeking the perfect first rifle for a new shooter, or a small game hunter needing a dependable and accurate tool, the Henry H001 offers an unparalleled blend of tradition, performance, and sheer shooting fun. It consistently ranks among the most recommended .22 caliber rifles for its robust build, user-friendly operation, and remarkable accuracy, solidifying its place as a cornerstone in any firearms collection.

Why Choose a Henry H001 Lever Action .22 Rifle?

The decision to acquire a new firearm often comes down to a few key considerations: reliability, ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and the enjoyment it brings. The Henry H001 excels in every one of these categories, making it an ideal choice for a diverse range of shooting activities.

Unmatched Versatility for Every Shooter

• For the New Shooter: Is the Henry H001 a good beginner rifle? Absolutely. Its intuitive lever-action mechanism, minimal recoil, and the low cost of .22 ammunition make it an excellent platform for learning fundamental marksmanship skills. The single-stage trigger and easy-to-load tubular magazine simplify the shooting process, allowing newcomers to focus on sight picture, breath control, and trigger discipline. It fosters confidence without the intimidating noise and kick of larger calibers.
• For Plinking Enthusiasts: If you're looking for the best .22 rifle for casual target shooting or "plinking," the H001 is a top contender. Its substantial tubular magazine capacity—15 rounds of .22 Long Rifle, 17 rounds of .22 Long, or a remarkable 21 rounds of .22 Short—means more shooting and less reloading, maximizing your time on the range or in the field. The satisfaction of cycling the lever action between shots adds a unique, engaging element that many find more enjoyable than semi-automatic alternatives.
• For Small Game Hunters: Can you hunt with a Henry H001? Yes, its inherent accuracy and reliability make it an excellent choice for hunting small game like squirrels, rabbits, or even target pests. The quiet operation of .22 rimfire ammunition is ideal for minimizing disturbance, and the rifle's light weight (approximately 5.25 pounds unloaded) makes it comfortable to carry during extended periods in the field.
• For Collectors and Traditionalists: The Henry H001 embodies the classic American lever-action aesthetic. Its beautiful American walnut stock, blued steel components, and classic profile evoke a sense of nostalgia and timeless craftsmanship that appeals to those who appreciate firearms heritage. It's not just a tool; it's a piece of history you can actively enjoy.

Core Features That Define Excellence

The Henry H001 is meticulously crafted with features that ensure both performance and durability. Every component is designed for seamless operation and a superior shooting experience.

• Precision-Engineered Blued Steel Barrel: The rifle boasts an 18.25-inch blued steel barrel, a standard length that provides an optimal balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance for rimfire cartridges. This barrel is machined with state-of-the-art multiple groove rifling, a precise manufacturing process that imparts a spin to the projectile, resulting in exceptional accuracy. This attention to detail means a highly accurate shooter, capable of tight groups even at extended rimfire ranges.
• Highly Versatile Tubular Magazine: The H001's easy-to-load tubular magazine is a hallmark of Henry lever actions. Unlike many other rimfire rifles, it can flawlessly cycle three different .22 rimfire cartridges: .22 Long Rifle, .22 Long, and .22 Short. This adaptability not only increases your ammunition options but also adds to the rifle's fun factor and versatility. The generous capacity ensures you spend more time shooting and less time reloading, a significant advantage for plinking or training sessions.
• User-Friendly Sights for Quick Target Acquisition: Equipped with an adjustable rear sight and a hooded front sight, the Henry H001 offers excellent iron sight capabilities straight out of the box. The adjustable rear sight allows for precise elevation and windage changes, enabling shooters to fine-tune their point of impact. The hooded front sight provides protection for the sight post while aiding in clear sight picture acquisition, even in varying light conditions. These robust iron sights are perfect for learning fundamentals or for those who prefer a traditional sighting system.
• Scope Mounting Ready Receiver: For those who desire enhanced precision or wish to extend their effective shooting range, the blued steel receiver features integrated grooves. These grooves are specifically designed to accommodate standard scope mounts, allowing for easy attachment of an optic. This versatility ensures that the Henry H001 can adapt to different shooting preferences, whether you prefer the classic feel of iron sights or the magnified advantage of a scope. The side ejection mechanism further facilitates scope mounting, as spent casings are ejected to the side, away from a mounted optic.
• Classic American Walnut Stock: The rifle is fitted with a beautiful American walnut stock featuring a straight grip. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, walnut is renowned for its strength, durability, and natural resistance to wear and tear. The straight grip design provides a comfortable and natural hold, enhancing control and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. This classic material and design contribute significantly to the rifle's overall balance and feel, making it a joy to handle.
• Lightweight and Maneuverable Design: Weighing in at a very comfortable 5.25 pounds (unloaded) and boasting an overall length of 36.25 inches, the H001 is exceptionally well-balanced and easy to carry. Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for younger shooters, individuals of smaller stature, or anyone planning long days afield. This ergonomic design contributes to reduced shooter fatigue and enhanced comfort.
• Smooth Single-Stage Trigger and Reliable Safety: The Henry H001 features a single-stage trigger, known for its consistent pull and clean break, which is crucial for achieving accuracy. Coupled with a positive hammer safety, the rifle provides a reliable and safe shooting experience. The hammer safety allows the shooter to manually cock or de-cock the hammer, providing an additional layer of control and peace of mind.

An American Original: Henry Repeating Arms Quality

Henry Repeating Arms has built a sterling reputation on its commitment to "Made in America" quality. Every Henry H001 rifle is proudly manufactured in the USA, a testament to the company's dedication to craftsmanship and supporting American jobs. This commitment translates into a firearm that not only performs exceptionally but also embodies a legacy of trust and reliability.

When you invest in a Henry H001, you're not just buying a rifle; you're becoming part of a tradition of excellence. Henry rifles are known for their customer service and standing behind their products, further solidifying their position as a reputable and recommended option in the firearms industry.

Enhancing Your Shooting Experience with the H001

Beyond its inherent qualities, the Henry H001 offers opportunities for personalization and skill development.

• Accessorizing Your Rifle: While the H001 is superb out of the box, owners often explore accessories to tailor it to their needs. Common additions include slings for comfortable carrying, a quality cleaning kit specific to rimfire rifles, and various types of .22 LR, .22 Long, or .22 Short ammunition to find what performs best in their specific rifle. For those opting for a scope, a variety of rimfire-specific optics can be easily mounted using the grooved receiver.
• Maintenance and Care: Is the Henry H001 easy to clean? Yes, like most rimfire rifles, it is relatively straightforward to maintain. Regular cleaning of the barrel, receiver, and action components is essential to ensure consistent performance and longevity. Given the somewhat "dirty" nature of .22 rimfire ammunition, a simple cleaning routine after each range session or hunting trip will keep your H001 operating flawlessly for decades.

Why the H001 is a Viable Alternative to a Semi-Automatic

Many shooters consider the .22 semi-automatic rifle as a default for plinking. However, the Henry H001 offers compelling reasons to choose a lever action instead, and it's often a lot more fun to shoot.

• Reliability: Lever actions are renowned for their mechanical simplicity and inherent reliability. Unlike some semi-automatics that can be particular about ammunition types, the H001's robust action cycles consistently with a wide range of .22 ammunition, reducing frustrating malfunctions.
• Engaging Action: The act of cycling the lever, ejecting a spent casing, and chambering a fresh round is an incredibly satisfying and tactile experience that many shooters find more engaging than the simple pull of a trigger on a semi-auto. It connects the shooter to the mechanics of the firearm in a unique way.
• Reduced Ammunition Consumption: While it holds a generous amount of ammunition, the deliberate action of cycling the lever can naturally slow down your rate of fire compared to a semi-automatic. This can lead to more mindful shooting and, for some, a more economical use of ammunition.
• Classic Appeal: There's an undeniable charm and historical significance to a lever-action rifle that a modern semi-automatic simply cannot replicate. Owning and shooting an H001 is a connection to the past, a piece of living history.

The Henry H001 Lever Action Rimfire Rifle represents the pinnacle of rimfire versatility, classic design, and dependable performance. It's a rifle that reliably solves the problem of finding an enjoyable, accurate, and cost-effective firearm for virtually any shooter. From teaching the next generation about safe shooting practices to providing countless hours of recreational plinking or effective small game hunting, the H001 delivers on every front. Its American craftsmanship and timeless appeal ensure it will remain a cherished firearm for years to come.

Discover the legacy and performance of the Henry H001 Lever Action Rimfire Rifle today. This iconic firearm, and many other exceptional models from Henry Repeating Arms, are available at DEGuns.com.

Henry H001 Lever Action Rimfire Rifle Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Henry Repeating Arms Model H001 Lever Action Rimfire Rifle
Caliber	.22 Long Rifle, .22 Long, .22 Short
Barrel Length	18.25 inches
Magazine Capacity	15 rounds (.22 LR), 17 rounds (.22 Long), 21 rounds (.22 Short)
Sights	Adjustable Rear Sight, Hooded Front Sight
Receiver	Blued Steel, Grooved for Scope Mount
Stock	American Walnut with Straight Grip
Overall Length	36.25 inches
Weight (Unloaded)	5.25 pounds
Safety	Hammer Safety
Ejection	Side Ejection
Trigger	Single Stage
Manufacturing	Made in the USA
SKU	H001
UPC	619835001009