Henry H024-3855 Side Gate Lever Action Rifle: A Timeless Classic Reimagined for Modern Shooters

Are you searching for a rifle that embodies classic American firearms heritage while incorporating modern convenience and safety? Do you need a reliable and accurate lever action for hunting, target practice, or adding a magnificent piece to your collection? Look no further than the Henry H024-3855 Side Gate Lever Action Rifle. This remarkable firearm, chambered in the venerable .38-55 Winchester, offers a unique blend of traditional aesthetics, robust performance, and user-friendly features designed to meet the demands of discerning shooters.

For generations, the lever action rifle has been synonymous with American ingenuity and the spirit of the frontier. Henry Repeating Arms carries this legacy forward, and the Side Gate series exemplifies their commitment to quality and innovation. Unlike traditional tube-loading lever actions, the Henry Side Gate introduces the convenience of a loading gate on the receiver, allowing for quick and easy reloading without the need to remove the inner magazine tube. This feature is particularly valuable in the field or at the range, offering a significant advantage for those who prioritize rapid, uninterrupted shooting.

Why Choose the Henry H024-3855 Side Gate Lever Action Rifle?

This rifle is ideal for a diverse range of enthusiasts. It's a perfect companion for:

• Hunters: The .38-55 Winchester caliber is an excellent choice for medium-sized game such as deer, black bear, and wild hogs at moderate ranges, especially in dense brush or timber. Its manageable recoil and significant knockdown power make it a humane and effective hunting cartridge.
• Traditional Firearm Enthusiasts: If you appreciate the look, feel, and history of classic American rifles, the H024-3855’s brass receiver and American Walnut stock will speak directly to your passion.
• Collectors: The unique combination of classic caliber, side gate loading, and Henry’s renowned craftsmanship makes this model a highly desirable addition to any collection.
• Target Shooters & Plinkers: Enjoy the satisfying experience of shooting a lever action at the range. The .38-55 offers a pleasant shooting experience and is well-suited for informal target practice or historical shooting competitions.
• Individuals Seeking a Reliable Brush Gun: Its compact 20-inch barrel and overall length of 38.30 inches make it exceptionally maneuverable in thick undergrowth, perfect for close-quarters hunting scenarios.

Unpacking the Henry H024-3855’s Superior Features

Let's delve deeper into what makes this rifle a standout choice, offering incredible value and performance.

The Versatility of the Side Gate Loading System

The most prominent feature distinguishing this model is its innovative side loading gate. While Henry has long been famous for its bottom tube-loading designs, the side gate offers an alternative that many shooters prefer.

• Convenience: Load cartridges directly into the magazine through the side gate without having to manipulate the tube.
• Flexibility: This system allows for "topping off" the magazine while the rifle is still in action, ensuring you maintain maximum capacity during a hunt or competition.
• Traditional Feel: Despite its modern convenience, the side gate maintains the classic aesthetics of many historical lever action designs.

Combined with the traditional removable tube for unloading, the Henry Side Gate offers the best of both worlds, providing unparalleled flexibility for loading and unloading ammunition (capacity: 5+1 rounds).

The Distinguished .38-55 Winchester Caliber

The choice of caliber is crucial for any rifle, and the .38-55 Winchester truly sets this Henry apart. Originally introduced in 1876, it's one of America's oldest black powder cartridges that successfully transitioned to smokeless powder.

• Historical Significance: Owning a rifle chambered in .38-55 connects you directly to over a century of shooting heritage. It was instrumental in early long-range target shooting and was a popular hunting cartridge.
• Ballistic Performance: While not a long-range magnum, the .38-55 is highly effective for its intended purpose. It typically launches heavy, large-diameter bullets (around 255 grains) at moderate velocities (1,200-1,300 fps), resulting in excellent energy transfer and a wide wound channel. It's known for its relatively mild recoil, making it comfortable to shoot repeatedly.
• Hunting Efficacy: For deer, black bear, and wild hogs within 100-150 yards, especially in areas with dense vegetation, the .38-55's heavy bullet and moderate velocity provide ample power for clean, ethical kills. Its large diameter often creates significant tissue damage, leading to quick game recovery.
• Ideal for Brush: The heavy, slow-moving bullet tends to deflect less when encountering light brush than smaller, faster projectiles, making it a reliable choice for close-quarters hunting.

Exquisite American Walnut Stock

Henry rifles are renowned for their quality materials, and the H024-3855 is no exception. The stock is crafted from genuine American Walnut, a hallmark of fine firearms.

• Aesthetics: The rich grain and deep coloration of the American Walnut add an undeniable touch of elegance and classic beauty to the rifle. It ages gracefully, developing a unique patina over time.
• Durability: Walnut is a robust and resilient wood, capable of withstanding the rigors of field use.
• Ergonomics: The stock is designed for comfortable handling, with a traditional pistol grip and forend that provide a secure and natural grip for right-handed shooters. The 14-inch length of pull accommodates most shooters comfortably.

The Luster of a Brass Receiver

The H024-3855 features a stunning solid brass receiver, a signature element of many Henry rifles that evokes the golden age of lever actions.

• Timeless Appeal: The polished brass receiver provides a striking contrast to the blued barrel, creating an iconic and luxurious appearance. It harkens back to the original Henry rifles of the 1860s.
• Material Strength: Brass is a durable and corrosion-resistant material, ensuring the rifle's longevity and performance for generations.
• Weight & Balance: The brass receiver contributes to the rifle's overall weight of 7.50 lbs, which helps to absorb recoil and provides a steady platform for accurate shooting. The weight distribution ensures a well-balanced feel in the hands.

Reliable and Fast Lever Action

At its core, the H024-3855 is a smooth and dependable lever action rifle.

• Speed & Fluidity: The lever action mechanism is known for its rapid follow-up shot capability, allowing for quick cycling of cartridges with a flick of the wrist.
• Mechanical Simplicity: Lever actions are inherently reliable, with fewer moving parts than many other firearm actions, leading to minimal malfunctions and easy maintenance.
• Historical Accuracy: This action type has a storied place in American history, making it a favorite among traditionalists.

Precision Sighting System

For quick target acquisition and traditional shooting, the Henry H024-3855 comes equipped with a semi-buckhorn rear sight and a bead front sight.

• Classic Design: This combination is a time-tested favorite for hunting and general shooting, providing a clear sight picture in varying light conditions.
• Practicality: Easy to use and adjust, these sights are perfect for the rifle’s intended ranges and provide excellent performance for most applications without needing optics.
• Rapid Acquisition: The bead front sight allows for quick alignment, ideal for fast-moving targets in brush.

Enhanced Safety with the Transfer Bar System

Safety is paramount in firearm design, and Henry incorporates a robust transfer bar safety mechanism in the H024-3855.

• Reliable Protection: The transfer bar prevents the firing pin from being struck by the hammer unless the trigger is fully pulled, significantly reducing the risk of accidental discharge if the rifle is dropped or the hammer is inadvertently struck.
• No External Safety Switch: This design allows for a clean, uncluttered receiver and simple, intuitive operation. The rifle is designed to be safely carried with a round in the chamber and the hammer at rest.

Optimized Barrel Performance

The 20-inch blued steel barrel is carefully engineered for accuracy and durability.

• Maneuverability: The 20-inch length provides an excellent balance between ballistic performance and ease of handling, especially in dense environments. It keeps the overall length (OAL) at a manageable 38.30 inches.
• Twist Rate: A 1:18" twist rate is ideal for stabilizing the typically heavy, blunt-nosed bullets of the .38-55 Winchester, ensuring optimal accuracy at moderate ranges.
• Blued Finish: The classic blued finish on the barrel and magazine tube is durable, corrosion-resistant, and aesthetically complements the brass receiver and walnut stock.

Answering Common Questions About Lever Action Rifles and the .38-55 Win

When considering a rifle like the Henry H024-3855, many prospective owners have questions. Here are some insights:

Is the .38-55 Winchester good for hunting?

Yes, the .38-55 Winchester is an excellent cartridge for hunting medium-sized game such as deer, black bear, and wild hogs at ranges typically under 150 yards. Its heavy, large-diameter bullets deliver significant kinetic energy and create substantial wound channels, leading to effective and ethical harvests. It excels as a "brush gun" where shots are often taken at closer distances.

How does the side gate loading compare to tube loading?

The side gate allows for individual cartridges to be pushed directly into the magazine through an opening on the receiver. This means you can keep the rifle pointed downrange or up, and quickly add rounds without disassembling anything. Tube loading, on the other hand, typically requires the inner magazine tube to be removed from the front of the rifle, and cartridges inserted, then the tube replaced. While both are effective, the side gate offers greater convenience for topping off the magazine.

Is a brass receiver durable?

Absolutely. Henry's brass receivers are cast from solid brass and are incredibly robust. They are designed to withstand the pressures and forces of regular shooting and are highly resistant to corrosion. While they may show minor handling marks and develop a beautiful patina over time, this only adds to the rifle's character and authenticity.

What maintenance does a lever action rifle require?

Like any firearm, regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. Focus on cleaning the bore after each shooting session to prevent copper and carbon fouling. Keep the action free of debris and lightly oiled to ensure smooth operation. Pay attention to the internal components and ensure screws remain tight. Specific care for the brass receiver involves gentle cleaning to maintain its luster, or allowing it to naturally patina for a more aged look.

Why choose a Henry rifle?

Henry Repeating Arms is an American company committed to building "Made in America or Not Made at All" firearms. They are renowned for their exceptional quality control, reliable designs, smooth actions, and classic aesthetics. Henry also boasts a strong reputation for customer service, ensuring that owners are satisfied with their investment. When you choose a Henry, you're investing in a piece of American craftsmanship.

Conclusion: A Legacy Rifle for the Modern Era

The Henry H024-3855 Side Gate Lever Action Rifle in .38-55 Winchester stands as a testament to Henry's dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation. It masterfully blends the classic appeal of a brass receiver and American Walnut stock with the practical convenience of a side loading gate and the reliable performance of the venerable .38-55 cartridge. Whether you're a hunter seeking an effective brush gun, a collector desiring a centerpiece, or a shooter who appreciates the tactile experience of a finely crafted lever action, this rifle is designed to exceed expectations. Its combination of historical significance, modern features, and Henry's unwavering commitment to American-made excellence makes it a truly exceptional firearm available at DEGuns.

Product Specifications Overview

Feature	Detail
Brand	Henry
Model	Side Gate
Caliber	.38-55 Win
Action	Lever
Capacity	5+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	20"
Barrel Finish	Blued
Stock Finish	American Walnut
Receiver Material	Brass
Sights	Semi-Buckhorn Rear, Bead Front
Safety	Transfer Bar
Twist Rate	1:18"
Overall Length	38.30"
Weight	7.50 lbs
Length of Pull	14"
Hand	Right
SKU	H024-3855
UPC	619835060464