Jody Johnson - I do believe that the boys at Henry made that connection with the Big Boy also. But it remains one of the finest affordable quality guns any shooter can own...Problem is that it is too nicely presented for knocking around in the field...Happy Thanksgiving to you
The pad is comfortable. The Henry is VERY B.A. with my own cast 255 and 300 gr. flat nose bullets. Thanks for the kind comments - even the one on my pad.
What would you say the heaviest boolit would be that the action will cycle? Henry says nothing over 270 grains but I have anecdotal evidence that they will cycle 300 grain pills easily and possibly more. Have you tried anything over 300 grains with yours? Thanks
Very nice! I just picked up one of these. It Came through the shop I do gunsmithing for and i just had to have it. My very first lever action. Also snagged a older SASS Vaquero set. Both revolvers and Henry chamberd in 45c. Thats the problem working in a gun shop and being a shooter and collector. There is always something you have to have.....
Thanks for your question - Henry has a proprietary scope mount for the Big Boy that is attached to the barrel and extends onto the receiver. The scope is then positioned over the receiver as a normal scope position. This mount is ordered from Henry. They do not recommend drilling holes in the receiver. But once mounted, it works fine. I'm thinking of putting some Skinner peep sights on my 45 Colt Big Boy.
They have a Uberti 1873 at one of my local gunshops, they keep trying to get me to handle it knowing once I do I will buy it lol. I love a good lever gun.
ScubaOz If my gunshop got one of those, I wouldn't even have to handle it...it would be a buy on sight...and rearrange the budget for the purchase later...I'd be liberating it for my grandsons after I'm gone...but in the meantime it would be "Fire for effect...!!" Best Regards
mark3smle-You are spot on. Cannot top off mag tube easily with this design. If you need more than 10 rounds, the Rossi M92 are FINE lever guns and costs less to boot. I like my Henry BB, but I also like my Rossi 92s.
Thanks for your comment. Loading via tube magazine not a problem for Cowboy Action - only ten rounds needed for any stage. Leave lever open when loading for extra safety. But there would be some rare times that not having loading gate would be troublesome. I like my Henry, but I like my Rossi 92s also.
+Johnny “johnnyc” c -- Sorry to not answer till now - Google did not put your comment in my inbox...Thank you for your kind comment....It's nice to know that after shooting up a pickup bed full of bullets, that I learned something along the way...Have a great day, FC
and for all the lever gun guys as myself... the henry does not like hollow points, and unless you get it modified by henry, you can only shoot factory loads
Valkman1520-thought I'd come back to your comment as I visited a newer gun shop and they had a whole slew of Henry 22 lever guns. Gotta wait to get one, because I just got something else and the wife will use my Kershaw Blur to skin me alive if I don't let the checkbook cool off for a while. Lead isn't the only thing that is Hot in the Hot Lead Zone...
Thanks, we all have to enjoy our lever action rifles in a big way. Right now, in pistol calibers, they are selling as quick as any dealers can get them. I wish that Henry would make a levergun in 45 ACP caliber - short, neat rounds with more ammo in the tubes.
I finally bought a .45 Big Boy Steel - Put a Skinner sight on it - Fast, accurate out to 100 yards - No feed or eject problems like Marlins - Easy loading - Handsome - Love it.
I can't imagine a better way for a father and son to spend time together than airing out some fine leverguns in tandem. And in 357 caliber, you've got accuracy, power enough for hunting, low recoil and economy to boot - what a hoot !! Thanks for the comment, your sub and keep up the good work with your site - I checked out some of the stuff therein. Happy Holidays
FortuneCookie45LC Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year back at you, my friend!! It will be a great year to enjoy the HotLead Zone and to get 'fortunes' of wisdom from the master of fortunes...FortuneCookie45LC!!
The .45 Colt cartridge is a handgun cartridge dating to 1872. It began as a black powder revolver round developed for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, but is offered as a magnum level handgun hunting round in modern usage. This cartridge was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873 and served as the official US military handgun cartridge for 19 years. It is sometimes, although incorrectly, referred to as .45 LONG Colt or .45LC to differentiate it from the shorter.45 Schofield.
littleteethkeith - Wives like that are more precious than jewels...!! In the next month, you can be deciding on the caliber of your choice - they are all good especially if you reload - if not - the 357 makes a lot of sense. Please let us all know about your experiences with the Henry Big Boy... Best to you and the fine wife - FC
Thanks for commenting. Some people say BBs are heavy, but when you draw down and the sights settle on target, and then that light trigger drops, you just know the quality. Just a bit of adjust & my sights were dead on. The doggone bullets hit within 3/4" at 25 yards offhand if we do our part. Unless you get a lemon, it's easy to really like this gun. That receiver is strong. Any caliber is good. Best wishes
OmegaPrepper- Thanks for the comment - It won't take you long - those are Marble type sights and much better than the old lever gun sights or even the current sights on Rossi M92s. They all work though, but some describe them as being "crude". Your Henry sights are the least "crude" of all of 'em. Good shootin' to ya and congratulations on getting an outstanding rifle. Shooting factory will keep you broke...if you cast your own, you'll be splitting playing cards for cheap...
selina kyle - Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone…appreciate your visit. The armed woman with a smile is an indelible part of America. Whether realized or not, whether heralded or condemned, it is core to us as a nation and a people. And it is one of the factors that make people want to come and be an American. Live long and prosper: you are one selina kyle…Best Regards in the HLZ… (isn't English beautiful?? especially when it's used from the heart)
About 5 days ago I just got the new Henry Big Boy Steel 45 Colt. Beautiful wood, and checkering too. This is one gorgeous rifle, and I've put about 70 rounds through it so far. Zeroed it at 100 yards. Wow it's a nice one!!! -Gunny T sends
@blackwood737 Davidson's had some Big Boys 2-3 months ago...no more at this time. Good luck getting yours...it will be worth the wait. You will be able to shoot anything from cowboy to bear loads, and don't let the brass receiver fool you...strength is there.
I'm definitely purchasing one soon found it at my local gun shop very scratched but a beautiful rifle got a44 mag ruger.Vaquero as a trail riding companion
+wyominghorseman994 -- You are ready for anything that comes along short of Martians behind deflector shields and armed with phase cannon...better shoot a bank shot off of them rocks... Happy Holidays... FC
Jim-Congratulations on that Henry Big Boy - It's a beautiful rifle that will give you much pleasure shooting at the range, and you will be able to hunt anything up to 350 pounds (deer, black bear, hogs, even elk) and LeverRevolution will give you extended range - 180 grain bullets will give you hitting power...but I suspect you know all that - Good choice!!
Depends on the load and what rifle you're using. In .45 Colt, in Marlin or other strong rifles, you can get just a bit over 1300 foot pounds out of strong handloads or +P factory loads. In .45-70 with Marlin or stronger rifles, you can use loads that generate well over 3500 foot pounds. If you stick to standard factory loads for both, expect about 800 foot pounds max from .45 Colt and 2200 foot pounds from .45-70, still plenty for deer. Even .45-70 factory loads are plenty for Grizzly bear!
Thanks for your question. MrAgentd knows his 45s. The 45/70 (and even more powerful rounds) was used by hunters to clear the plains of buffalo during the 1870s. And the 45 Colt was the most powerful factory pistol cartridge until the 357 magnum came along in 1935. Handloads of the 45 Colt in STRONG revolvers rivals the power of the 44 magnum (but many more powerful rounds have evolved since to the present day king - 500 S & W Magnum)
Jim Dent-The Henry Big Boy has a lug lockup on the bolt - it is not the simple weak toggle link action like the 1873 Winchester or before (although Uberti is chambering their current 1873 for 44 magnum). Henry Big Boys are also chambered for 44 magnum, so they can stand the pressure. Even though you could, I'd tell anyone who wants to listen to keep from overstoking your HBB in 45 Colt - stay with +P+ or under for most shooting and save the 300 grain 1300-1400 fps bruisers for hunting.
Nice review. I love lever actions. The first firearm I ever purchased with money from my first job was a Yellow Boy in 44-40. That was a beautiful carbine and fun to shoot. I'm definitely going to have to pick up a Big Boy. Thanks for sharing.
Nice Henry. I'm guessing your lower two targets were shot at 25 yards, correct? I'm with you on your earlier post regarding feeding hollowpoints, since you clearly were shooting SWCs in it for this particular session. Why would an HP be any less likely to feed? btw...I use the Hornady LeveRevolution bullets for my hunting round in my Marlin 1894 .45 Colt, and I took my first ever deer with one last year using that combination. I can put ten inside a single ragged hole @ 50 yards.
howard2374 Thanks and - Yessirreebob!!! That Mae West was quite a woman...I think if I ever met her, she wouldn't give the runt kid the time of day, but I'd pass out from not breathing anyway....And same would go if I ever met MM - she'd tell the teenager to get lost, but that would be hard to do once the teenager went into swoon mode. Today, the realization that the bigger the celebrity, the more screwed up they are, the more money is in the mix, and the less they want to have anything to do with the regular people, I'd just look 'em in the eye and say 'Thank you so much for being here". Best to ya
+howard2374 - Sorry I missed that comment - Google did not post it in my inbox... Yep, that Mae West was a lot of woman way ahead of her time...she was a pioneer in her own way, but as subtle as a 255 grain 45 caliber Semi-Wadcutter... Best to ya, FC
Hi, I reload for my Bisley Blackhawk 45 Colt and Rossi R92 454 Casull. A friend of mine hunts (and eats) black bears in northern Ontario, which involves daily baiting - most often walking on a trail, alone. Since carrying a handgun in the woods is not legal here, but a Henry Mare's Leg is considered to be a non-restricted rifle in Canada, it is the handiest thing to carry while hauling buckets of molasses and oat feed. So, he bought a 45 Colt mostly because he couldn't find a 44 magnum, locally. He also bought the 225 gr Hornady FTX ammo, which was expensive, and rather mild to shoot. He mentioned this, and I offered to show him how to reload. Then he bought Hornady 250 gr XTP HP bullets, large primers, and AA#9 powder. That's last ingredient is where I'm in a little conundrum. That powder is only listed for Ruger only loads. Can a Henry handle it, or can it be loaded under the start load to reduce the pressure? Or, should I get another powder? If so, what powder do you recommend for a good stout load?
I wish they made a henry lever or pump action in 10mm acp. This would be an awesome cartridge in a rifle. They make 10mm acp factory ammo that has 750 ft/lbs of muzzle energy, it is longer than a 45acp and has more velocity. A 45 Long colt that would fire the 45acp would be even better maybe. Ball ammo should be as safe as round nose. Back in the old days having a pistol and rifle that fired the same caliber was almost a necessety. It would be tremendously convenient for people today that cant afford a lot of different guns and many types of ammo and love to shoot and hunt. A 45acp would be a bit lacking for deer unless you were less than 40 yards away. On the other hand a 10 mm is longer a bit lighter in weight, much higher velocity, and fired out of a good lever or pump action rifle with an 18"-22" barrel would reach nice velocities and of course the pistol ammo pushing 750 ft/lbs out of a 5" muzzle..... This would be raised to around 900 ft/lbs out of a 20" rifle barrel being plenty powerfull for deer and smaller size game at the less than 300 yard range. I know others have thought of it, its the perfect pistol/rifle round for everything from plinking, competition and up to medium size game. For the size of the cartridge, it packs the most punch. twice the power of a 38, nearly half the size. Not as big and heavy as a 45 long colt, but with several factory loads you get twice the velocity and easily twice the muzzle energy. Sure you can tote a blackhawk w long colt hot loads but with the 10mm any semi auto pistol of different styles from 1911 to Glock. I would buy one for sure. I like the Henry lever and pump action in the octagon barrel. Hook it up Henry, im sure this would be the perfect size lever action with exellent performance and multi purpose use, pistol/rifle combo. Get er Done Son!!!!
+Krupp88 Metal -- Henry could easily make lever guns (they make only one pump gun - a 22) in 10mm, 41 mag, 45 acp or 9mm (the 9mm would be very popular in cowboy action as it would be a very efficient, short case load that would function quick and well, plentiful brass and components, cheap to shoot, and 10 rounds easy in a very short barrel / tube magazine) The other calibers would be produced if they had reason to believe that they would sell enough of 'em to be worth their while...but the 9mm is the most popular centerfire caliber in the US - should go ahead with that. The 10mm would be a very fine hunting carbine for sure... Best Regards, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC no doubt. the 38 is old and has twice the length it needs. A .40 caliber is comparable to a 38 special. I like the 10mm for a pump or lever gun idea cause it has velocity and power that makes it useful for more than just plinking. I would not hunt deer w a 9mm but a 10mm is plenty. Another caliber i like that had a short life when i was younger is the 357 maximum. 3" case. They never chambered it in a true rifle. I have fired it in a 10" or 14" contender pistol frame i cant remember but it was chambered in blackhawk too. The flash burned the finish around the cylinder so it was recalled. But a lever gun would be grizz or moose stopper. I know a guy that claims he shot a wild boar w his maximum blackhawk and it went in its head and came out its ham. So the story goes. But i have fired this beast. I have not seen ammo in years and it was superior to a 44mag. Another good potential lever gun caliber, or bolt action for that matter, its 3.5" w projectile. Prob comparable to a 454 but i believe the velocities are higher, plus it will shoot the 357 mag and 38 as well. I thought it had good potential.
+Krupp88 Metal -- The 357 Maximum was developed for the sport of Metallic Silhouette, but like you say, it has faded. In a single shot, it ceases to be bear protection, but is more than adequate for hunting. We can dream all we want, but the makers will still only produce what will sell well. The 9mm would be first on the docket. If it did well, the door would be open for other calibers... Best Regards, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC thats fine if you like the 9mm. I prefer the 45auto 1911 myself. They have 454 lever guns but no 9mm that i know of. I guess they produce what they want. Dang i was trying to make conversation not argue buddy. Takes 3 9mm rounds rapid to knock over a 250 lb steal target on a hinge. Takes one 45. Everyone has there favorite. I like em all, just cant afford but a couple so i want a rifle that fires an adequate pistol cartridge. That ruger blackhawk 30 carbine aint bad. 45 long colts pretty good w new high octane loads. They make calibers all the time that dont last. I know all about the max cause i reload em. I thought it was a keeper cause its versatility. Like the 454 you can use some hot 45LC and save ammo cost. I guess you wasnt interested in talk, just the 9mm. Army is going back to the 45 and looking to chamber the AR in a more effective round, they have developed a few new ones but the 308 has been there all along.
+FortuneCookie45LC a 9mm rifle would be no good for hunting. Its a pop pistol round, im talkin bout multi purpose. They already make a 6" barrel 10mm for hunting. 1911 long slide and Glock 40 are two popular ones. I talk rounds alot cause i grew up around gunshops and gunsmiths. I simply mean that for a round that is a good pistol and powerfull enough for hunting is what i would want. Out of the acp pistol rounds the 10mm isnt as pop as a 9mm,40cal( 10mm short) and 45 autos but to have one cal for an auto and a lever gun the 10 has that balance factor. Right bullet weight to powder load ratio that puts it triple the energy of the 9×19, double the velocity of a 45auto but still a couple hundred ft/lbs more than the 45. I dont even own a 10mm, but i would if they had a lever gun that fired it. The 45LC is great and is available in both but its a heavy cartridge and expensive too. That Thompson single shot is super accurate, one is all you need for hunting unless your on a Safari. My father loves to shoot that 45-70 contender barrel, a little hard on my wrist to be honest. happy shootin.
Capt'Able - I do rub the stock with Ballistol after every time to the range with it (about 1x a month). The Ballistol drives out moisture and is good for the wood. Best Regards and thanks for the good question. Welcome to the HLZ.
I would suggest that you slug the barrel and mike out the groove diameter of your bore. If it is out of spec, that would explain the accuracy problem. You should shoot bullets .001" bigger than groove diameter for best accuracy. It problem not solved, you should send rifle back to Henry with explanation, target and some loads (but not in the rifle or you violate federal law). For what we spend for the BB, Henry will stand behind their products. Please post your progress-we need to know.
Thanks for the comment. Checked out your Project Channel - lots of good stuff there. Liked the Garand and trigger control vids the best. And you have subscribed to some outstanding sites.
And thank you for telling about your Yellow Boy in classic 44-40. The 66 Winchester is a very smooth action used by a fair number of Cowboy Action shooters. I really like my Big Boy, and I also like my 92 Rossis. As you say, the levers are just fine. Good shootin' to ya...
Great looking rifle you have there! I'm re-visiting these Henry Big Boy's. Small negative for me is that it has to be loaded through the tube and not through the receiver.
Valkman1520- An outstanding value in lever guns is Rossi - faithful copies of Winchester M92 in pistol calibers and Rio Grand in 30/30 and 45/70 - that's a full line of lever guns and prices are well below the Win, Henrys, and Ubertis. Plus they shoot up a storm...Best Regards...
Mark Lowe - Wow, reminds me of my own wife Jan when she gave me an M1 Garand for Christmas!! Wives like that are sprinkled around, but they definitely don't grow on trees!! We gotta take care of those gals. The OTLC 250 RNFP is well regarded. Be sure to get yours in .452". The .451" may be fine, but the .452 is a can't miss!! Congratulations to you... Merry Christmas and Best Regards
I'm not into tube loading leverguns unless they shoot 22LR. Having said that I just bought a brand spanking new Henry Frontier model H001T with the 20" octagon barrel in 22LR today to see what this Henry craze is all about. It's the blue receiver version of the fancied up H004 with brassite receiver which is optically way too "loud" for a hunting gun. I don't need the game to be able to see the flashes from my gun a mile away on a sunny day. I'm told it rivals the Marlin 39A in workmanship, accuracy and smoothness. I'll be the one to decide that after the range trial. I'll take it to the range this week. If I really like the H001T I might look at a centre fire Henry.
+bushed274 -- Funny thing about lever guns - although accurate, they aren't as accurate as other guns (no benchrest titles for levers), and they won't shoot as fast as semi-autos or fully automatic weapons - but they are fast handling, smooth and quick, effective, distinctly American, and the fun and romance factors are high. Some have complained about the lower end Henry quality of materials, but the higher end products (like your Frontier model) are very nice. As for high end 22 levers - the Henry, the Marlin 39A (esp. the old ones), Winchester 9422, and the Browning are first mentioned. The quality of the Henry centerfire rivals that of the Ubertis My prediction is you will really like your Henry - and so will anyone you let shoot it... Best to ya, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC Agreed. Another point is that while admittedly levers aren't as inherently accurate as some other action types an accurate levergun is as accurate as most (probably about 99.9%) shooters. For example, I watched a guy on a youtube video throw and shoot a plastic bottle out of the air with a Rossi 92 in 357 mag yesterday. I have a Rossi 92 in 357 mag but I can't equal that feat. The limiting factor for me is certainly not my Rossi 92.
+bushed274 -- that's a trick shot that most can do with practice. Idea is to build a consistent gun mount (note - this can be a standard gun mount or a creative one - like gun over the head, gun upside down, etc) the gun will shoot to a certain spot as you are looking downrange. Then, with aerial target, we mount the gun and follow the moving target with that spot, tripping the trigger when our brain says they intersect. Hits will come. If we are trying to get sights lined up, we will never be able to focus on the target and that is the essential thing in hitting aerials. Hard to work on this except in desolate areas. Best to ya, FC
ok for nostalgia, but for me, the hipoint semi-auto .45acp carbine makes more sense. A little over 1/3 the price and cheaper to shoot, shoots a similar heavy near sonic bullet, effective for game out to ~150 yds in a modern commonly used pistol cartridge. I like the .45LC (have Ruger blackhawk), but ammo is expensive and difficult to find.
+mike parker -- That's because you don't reload, mike. Personally, I like to send big heavy slugs down range at +P so reloading fills the bill - has for the past 40+ years. If I had to purchase factory ammo, I would recommend against the 45 Colt as it is mucho dinero to feed (it won't be a keeper). Reloading, I can shoot all the 45 Colt I want for 7 cents a shot - much cheaper than even 22LR with more bang and smack to boot. Reloading opens up the world of shooting in ways hither and yon, with untold pleasure and satisfaction. Your highpoint is a good way to go. For factory ammo shooters, it's really simple = 22LR, 9mm, 357, 223 (5.56), or 12 gauge. These are, bar none, America's favorite calibers (the 38 is in the 357). Good shootin' to ya... FC
+FortuneCookie45LC I do reload both the .45lc and .45acp. My comment is only that the .45acp semiauto carbine is pretty much the ballistic equal of the .45LC lever action rifle, but cheaper (half the cost), probably a bit more accurate, and easier to shoot and reload for. Lever actions do have nostalgic value... as does the long colt so its a personal preference thing- just noting that there are other options if you like high caliber bullets.
mark3smle- on the quality of Rossi firearms, since Rossi became a subsidiary of Taurus, the combined firm named BrazilTech (or something of that nature), the quality, fit and finish of Rossis, especially their lever guns, has been very good. If you look at my vids on the Rossi 92 recently, you will find that they are beautiful and shoot very accurately and consistently (splitting playing cards offhand up to 25 yards). Best Regards...
PinOld-Thanks for the post-you have the type of comment that screams to be made into a video - popular to leverlovers - lots of them out there. As for me, I'll just keep the casting pots heated up to make those great RNFPs for my levers. Good huntin' to ya...
I just recently got a standard henry 22 lever action. the fore end is a little loose but other than that it seems pretty well built. I still think the marlin 39a (the older ones) r better built guns. very smooth action. cant wait to shoot some shorts out of it.
redneckmini14-The Henry 22s I've seen at the gun store didn't have a loose fore end. I don't own any Henry 22 rifles since I already have the 39A and Winchester 9422 - and with the scarce 22 these days, I'm not shooting either of those like I used to…Best to ya…Happy Holidays again...
Great channel very informative, if you ever head back to New Orleans area we would love you to come out to our range. Outdoor range and its 100% veteran owned and military weapons are allowed up to a .70 cal rifle . Thanks again for great videos and a real insight into reloading keep it up and let us know if there is any brass or ammo you could use I would be happy to donate to your channel
+sam long -- Wow, Sam, I should have posted my New Orleans trip before I took it...would have been great to visit the range - After all, we are talking about the Shooting Corridor of America right there in Jerry Miculek territory right up around to Tennessee and 'Caintuck. As you know, my channel is strictly for any viewers to come if they choose and have a good time and take whatever information might help them or not... no strings attached. My philosophy is that the shooting sports are so infinite and diverse in subject matter and interest that even collectively we can never exhaust it all, but that if we all tried together, that would be extremely marvelous. As such, anything that anyone would ever wish to send me would be highly valued and fed back into the mill for all to enjoy... Best Regards to ya, FC
I love the old single action revolvers. I would really like to get a lever gun in 45, when finances allow. You have a very rice rifle. We bought our boys the Henry Golden Boy 22's, and they have a blast shooting them.
Hi FC45LC love you videos, I have the henry BB45 lc but have little reloading experianceand have trouble with feeding I thinking it is a cartridge length issue could you tell me what you make you set you cartridge over all length to ? thanks
Wonderful!! There's a whole lot of love when someone gets a 357 revolver for their birthday!! Whether new or used, a 357 revolver made by any major gun maker is a shootin' iron to be reckoned with pardner !! And the Big Boy will be a fine companion - wait till you have a longer shot and that Big Boy settles on target and you let off that sweet trigger - Good shootin' to ya'
James Ross The rifle is extremely accurate and smooth in operation. I did have a problem with it - the extractor became inoperative after about five years of use, and I had to send it back to Henry - they fixed it for no charge, and all I had to pay was shipping...The gun shop that I bought it from handled it for me...All in all, I really like that rifle. The Rossi 92 is an alternative in a new lever gun in 45 Colt - it is slightly less accurate and not as smooth as the Henry, but is much less costly. The Ubertis are more historic than the Henry Big Boy, but are no more quality - and the cost is equal to or more than the Henry. If buying used, if you can find a good condition Marlin 1894 or Winchester 94 in 45 Colt you better buy it before I find it or I'll buy it before you do ;) ...Best Regards and Good shootin' to ya
1848dragoon-Thanks for the info on the HBB strength - some shooters also have qualms about the "brass" frame, but in reality, it is an alloy that has all the strength we need. I'm going to get this comment of yours to Jim Dent as he had concerns. Thanks again for a more technical answer to his question...
Jim Dent -some shooters also have qualms about the "weak brass" frame, but in reality, it is an alloy that has all the strength we need. And be sure to check out 1848dragoon comment on the Henry BB strength...Best Regards..
001tonbushcrafting- Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone - If you see one of these and work the action, you will smile. But when you see the price tag, you'll cringe. You'll still want one, but I tell everyone who will listen that they need to give the Rossi M92s (esp. the stainless) a look before they decide. Best Regards to ya...
I'd like the "Big Boy" except for the brass receiver itself. How do you maintain this rifle without scratching or marring it? Impossible, unless you just let it age, wear, and patina to an aged/used finish? I believe I favor the traditional blue finish or "all weather" stainless. I also like the skinner sights over the buckhorn, certainly adequate. Nice shooting.
Walter Palmer - The receiver is actually not brass, but an alloy that can withstand 44 magnum - Henry has made other models in steel receivers for those who so prefer. The "brass" receiver can be scratched and marred equally like steel. The strength of the Henry action is equal to that of Marlins - plenty for our use. The Skinners are good sights, I know that I will try those at some point... Best to ya, Walter FC
Hi FortuneCookie45LC My friend! I know your a fan of the 45lc I was wondering what distance would these rifles shoot out too? as I own one in a Rossi 92 20" barrel stainless for value I'm very impressed with it, I reload my own of course as I shoot western action and sight my loads on a indoor range before use in matches, now the sights are the same as the Henry but my eyes at long distance are getting sad lol. And I find it hard to focus properly I'm good for up to 20yards, I was thinking of getting a set of layman tang sights peep hole to help me so if I was to go hunting I would actually know its capabilities n distance Your advise would be greatly appreciated Sam
sam agiakatsikas - The aperture sights help, but only a little. A big part of the problem is accommodation - the eye is able to shift focus quickly enough that more than one focal length is in or nearly in focus. Without that, aperture sights still will not help. If hunting anything past 40 yards, a variable tactical scope is very hard to beat. In fact, at 1X, the tactical scope beats any iron sight at any range still handy in a carbine or scout rifle... Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC I use this lever action for cowboy action and really didn't want to attach a scope but anyway thank you for your help they have special on at the moment that I'm looking at for $695.00AUD a Savage stainless package in a 223 with a Bushnell 3x9 x40 that may suit better
+Lion Silver -- Yes, it is strong. But I'd still stay clear of the all out magnum 45 Colts. 1200 fps is easy to achieve with 255 gr RNFPs in the Henry BB. If one needs more power than that, time to get a 454 Casull M92 Rossi. Best Regards, FC
+Lion Silver --The Henry BB will shoot any 45 Colt ammo out there including the Cor-bons and Double Taps, etc...It's too nicely finished a rifle to beat up with a steady diet of hell raisers though, that's just my personal preference. I wouldn't hesitate to blast away with my Rossi 92s though.... Best Regards, FC
Arrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhhh!!! It is driving me crazy, no such cartridge as .45 LONG Colt, only .45 Colt. Anyway, good review of the rifle as my wife is even looking at one.
John - Your wife will like it, 45 Colt is a fabulous cartridge. As for the L--g Colt, it's all OK...(this was an early video) I only call it the 45 Colt now since a lot of the 45 Colt fans hate it any other way. Since the 45 Colt is my favorite cartridge - might as well go with the 45 Colt (the Long Colt camp doesn't have any problems with the 45 Colt). All the oldest videos of mine might still say the L--g, though - please disregard that. Best Regards to you and Happy Holidays...
italianrelic-wow, location, location, location. I can imagine spending some free time there. Henry 22 lever actions are available, and I am tempted to buy one (even though I already have the Marlin 39A and Win 9422), but ammo availability and pricing is holding me back...Thanks for sharing your good fortune - you should visit over there and post a video...
Thanks Actually, I have a vid of myself shooting the Marlin up here already. I could have done much better at the 50 yards this particular day, but it's still not too bad considering that I wasn't really trying at the time.
Hey FortuneCookie45LC I have the 45 Colt Henry as well I was wondering do you put anything on the Wood stock to protect it? like citrus oil or anything?
My boyfriend owns this gun and has been having issues getting the proper ammunition. Cabelas sold him Bear Loads which hung up in the gun...would not feed . Then two other places sold him Blazer ammo with aluminum casings. What is recommend for this gun? Thank You.
+linda harter - AHA!! Methinks you are shopping for ammo gifts...not bad, Linda - any shooter loves to get factory ammo. The best feeding ammo for lever action rifles is the RNFPs. Round nose bullets would be good also as well as the truncated cones. The Bear Loads might be the wide nose flat points heavy bullet penetrator loads - they might just have feeding problems because of the wide flat nose. If your boyfriends gun is the 45 Colt, that Blazer ammo is among the most reasonable in cost. Problem with the 45 Colt is factory ammo is very expensive to shoot. Reloading is the only way to go when shooting the 45 Colt or the 44 Magnum. Shooting costs go down to 7 cents a shot reloading with home cast bullets. Brings costs down to like shooting 22 rimfires, but only if reloading. A good box of 45 Colt ammo will go for over $50 US money (Gahhh!!). If he likes the Blazers, you can get him more of those ($40 a box). Be sure to go out and shoot with him - we guys love women that can handle hardware especially in high heels...hmmm...forget I said that, any shoes will do. Happy Holidays, FC
van shaddinger - The Henry is on the same design as the Marlin 1894s - well strong enough to handle 44 magnum so yes, +P and +P+ loadings are fine in Henrys. So any factory loadings of the 45 Colt and any published loading data for the 45 Colt (including the hot stuff) are good to go...Happy New Year to ya..!! FC
FCLC45... help.... working on a hunting load for my 357 Big Boy Steel... Using a very nice 187 gr hard cast WFNGC bullet and Alliant 300-MP powder and getting velocity around 1900 FPS. Need to retain down-field ME of greater than 1000 ft-lbs @100 yds due to CO hunting regs, hence the need for higher velocity to achieve down field ME. No signs of pressure issues with my load, but it is slightly compressed. Using heavy crimp applied with Lee FCD at crimp groove. Now the problem... accuracy sucks, groups of 6 - 10 in. @ 100 yds. checked bullet stability using barrel twist rate, bullet dimensions, and velocity. All indicate bullet should be stable out of this firearm. Load consistency is great... SDs are less than +-10 fps. Other than usual suspects like scope issue or crown damage, what else could be going on with my accuracy?
Steve Trent - Congrats on your BB Steel - fine rifle. I don't believe there is any reloading data for that powder with those 187 grainers, but sounds like you've got a good load there probably maximum - going to be hard to milk any more MV out of that combo. Seating the bullets out farther is going to have functioning issues. As for accuracy - I've heard of shooters measuring their rifling twists with 357 Magnum rifles getting everything from 1x14" to 1x19". You will need some extra twist rate to stabilize that bullet at distance. If you are getting good accuracy with that load at 50 yards, that's probably it - losing stability at distance and the regular solution of boosting the MV won't work for you. Another reason might be the groove diameter. If your bullets mike .358", that should be OK unless your barrel needs .359s. If you have some .359s and they shoot more accurately, you've found that solution, but of course, slugging the barrel is the best determiner. Lever gun accuracy past 75 yards with cast bullets is not easily obtained anyway - I'm happy with cast bullets shooting into 4" at 75 yards, but the range that has 75 yard target stands closed up early this year. How do Hornady LeveRevolution ammo or reloads shoot in your gun? A lot of shooters wound up with 300MP powder during the powder shortages. I like H110 for my 357s including the 207 grain Lee cast - had same problem - needed all the MV I could get to maintain stability at 75 yards. Good shootin' to ya, FC
I was just wondering if the Henry would handle heavily loaded cartridges. I have a reloading manual that illustrates two different loadings one is for weak action 45s and the other is for strong action 45s. Thanks
Joe Breeding - Easy - I own the 45 Colt version. But that's because I reload. If I weren't a reloader, I'd pick the 357 because of the wide availability and cost of ammo, both 357 and 38. Best to ya, FC
steve thompson-Sorry you are having difficulty with HPs-My Big Boy has no problems Hornady XTPs-are HPs you are using too aggressive? Try Hornady Leverevolution loads-they expand VERY nicely for hunting and feed great (too expensive at range). But lever action rifles REALLY SING with home cast RNFPs (they RULE).My Henry, Rossi 92s, and Winchester 94 just gobble up everything including factory magnums.Bullet shape is critical - No SWCs in my levers. Ya want power? magnum 300 gr RNFPs smack'em.
greybear73 - Sorry that the last comment reply was indeed pistol / rifle ammo. When I shoot heavy loads in my 44 magnum or 45 Colt in my Henry or Rossi leverguns - they use the 310 grain and 300 grain RNFP gas checks from Lee (those are the heaviest bullet molds they make) and max charges of 2400 or H110 powder. I won't give you the exact charge weights as they are well published, and you will have to work up with those anyway (H110 has a narrow range). One thing though - these loads have some fair recoil. Best to ya, FC
Hi boss can you help me i want a 30 -30 I've been looking at the Henry or winchester 26 inch from 1894-1994. Hundred years conmemorative the winchester go for 1000$ the Henry will be new but they don't make 26 inch barril ,i wonder if henry can special oders in tha size , thank you for your videos i enjoy them a lot God bless you
How's that Henry 45 as far as feeding. The wife wants one in 22 but a friend of mine has one in 357 and it had feeding problems, won't feed 38's. So he sent it back and it still don't feed right. Henry said its only designed to fire 158 grain or heavier. My opinion that makes the gun junk, for my older (not the newer) Marlin 357 will fire everything I load, even mixing 38 and 357 and several weight bulletsin the tube. He also got a Henry 22 (not the yellowboy) and it came from the factory with the sight mounted wrong and it shot 2-3 feet to left at 100yards. they sent him a new gun. So the wife (and kids) ended up with a Ruger American compact 22 for xmas. Wife still wants the Henry but for the price and experience I don't see one in the safe anytime soon. An old Marlin in 357 Maximum would be nice, but they don't exist.
+jeremy74pow -- The Marlin 1894s are still hard to find, even used ones are hard to find. I got mine in 44 mag used, all beat up...I bought it anyway, cleaned it up (nice!!), and it's a keeper for sure...Needs cast bullets a bit on the big side, but that absolutely A-OK-no problemo. My Henry Big Boy 45 Colt feeds every 45 Colt I've stuffed into it so far- shoots very accurately and the best trigger on any factory lever gun bar none...But can't speak for the 357 Henry. Have a great day, FC
+jeremy74pow - An alternative to the Henry is the Rossi M92 - some say that the Rossi M92 is not as quality made, but it is a faithful repro of the Winchester M92 John Browning design. If you want fit and finish and "quality", then get the 24" hexagon version of the Rossi M92 - if you like blue, the case harden receiver is lovely. If you like stainless steel, the 24" rifle M92 is simply nicely nice - you couldn't pry that off my hands with a crowbar. I have the Henry 45 Colt Big Boy as well and I like it - feeds all 45 Colt with ravenous appetite, but is on the expensive side - accurate and best trigger on a lever gun though. The Rossi M92 44 mag in 24" octagon is one of my favorite 44 mags. But if you want handy, the Rossi M92 with 16" barrels are dandy. If CAS, then the 20" version in 357 is what you want (however, you will lose to equal talent armed with 1873s, 66s and 60s. Your wife wanting the Henry is because she has good tastes. The Henry will fill the bill especially in big bore caliber - like on the frontier. If you really want to treat her - get the Uberti 1873 or 66 - if she is a real honey, then get her the real honey - Uberti 1866 Sporting Rifle 45 Colt Yellowboy - much better than buying her jewelry. PS, don't let her read this reply or you will be doomed, just doomed. Ahhh, we should all be so doomed. -- FC
+FortuneCookie45LC I prefer my Marlin in 357. Maybe one day I'll find one in 41 mag. I don't like the new lever guns with the crossbolt safety. safety on a lever gun is pointless. back when Winchester came out with the safety two of my friends bought 30-30s and when they pulled the trigger the safeties would engage and the guns wouldn't fire.
+jeremy74pow -- If you talk to enough shooters, you will get all kinds of opinions on those lever gun safeties. And some would be passionate over their use as if they were the best thing since chopped liver. Everybody wants safety as the world is a dangerous place. Responsibility and all the subsets thereof - are the best safeties. Best to ya, FC
Over 90 days since I paid for mine and it still hasn't arrived yet. Disappointing to say the least. Getting ready to pull the plug on it and get my money back from my dealer.
***** Sounds like they are back ordered. There are Henry rifles on the racks at our local gun stores, but they are the 22LR lever guns. Must be a big demand for the Big Boys at this time...I'm glad I have mine. I think there is a backlog on some of the Ubertis also at this time. And even the Rossi 92s are selling very well...the interest on lever guns is very strong... Best to ya...
***** Just checked for you - what's happening is that Henry is making some Big Boys deluxe and commemoratives. And your order is hitting right at the wrong time...these special production guns are selling for several hundred more than the regular models. The regular Big Boy is already finely finished. Personally, I don't need a Commemorative Henry. That could help explain the shortage on the regular Big Boys - high demand and allocation to special Henrys. Reminds me of Cary having to wait two years for his Shiloh Sharps 45/70. I hope you'll get a date on delivery...it is the waiting and not knowing that is hard. I don't blame you a bit for your frustration... Best to ya
FortuneCookie45LC Thank You for checking, but honestly, I've heard a ton of excuses already from Henry and the distributor. "They're on backorder, there's a shortage of this one part, they are only making commemoratives, the distributor got the invoice wrong, the invoice is in "picking" (whatever that means)," blah blah blah with each excuse comes another promise that it'll be in my hands in 3 more weeks. My last e-mail to Henry suggested I go to Gun Broker to get one (HELLO! I already PAID for one!) Henry should re-evaluate which guns get priority. Old orders should come first. It steams me that some dude that can afford a $2200 Engraved job gets priority over mine when he just ordered his. Jeeze! If I ordered a commemorative or custom job, I'd expect to have to wait, but a standard big boy taking over 3 months with no arrival date in site? Seems extreme to me. I hate to say it, but I'm about ready to pull the plug on the Henry (Too bad to, cause I've always wanted one) and order a Rossi 92 in stainless. I want to go shooting, not wait around for my dealer to call. A gun in hand is worth two still at the factory!
It Finally came in, after once again being delayed and getting shipped to Wisconsin instead of to me! LOL! Can't make this stuff up, but it was worth the wait, every second of it! Most beautiful rifle ive ever owned!
45 Long Colt (45LC) is a misnomer. There was never a 45 short Colt. The standard name for the cartridge today is "45 Colt." I do enjoy your videos. Thanks!
+Michael Smith -- know where you are coming from - I mostly say 45 Colt...the Long has a habit of getting in there on occasion... Have a great day, and thanks for tuning in.... FC
It is sometimes referred to as .45 Long Colt or .45LC, to differentiate it from the shorter .45 S&W Schofield, as both were used by the Army at the same period of time prior to the adoption of the M1887 Govt.[1]
+jjforeal2 -- Sounds good. But there are many that really, really hate the term 45 Long Colt...to save the hullabaloo, I just say 45 Colt - we all know to wit we refer in any case (ha, ha puny pun) Best Regards, FC
Let’s not be a troll, please. The history of the term adjective ‘long’ is provided by another commentator. I like the idea of preserving a bit of history.
Philip Barr-That sounds a bit obtuse, though, since no self respecting buck is going to wait around for 10 rounds to be fired unless the shooter is Lucas McCain AKA the Rifleman…Best Regards...
Henry makes a great product.
The movie quotes sold me. Lol. I'm getting this gun!
Jody Johnson - I do believe that the boys at Henry made that connection with the Big Boy also. But it remains one of the finest affordable quality guns any shooter can own...Problem is that it is too nicely presented for knocking around in the field...Happy Thanksgiving to you
The pad is comfortable. The Henry is VERY B.A. with my own cast 255 and 300 gr. flat nose bullets. Thanks for the kind comments - even the one on my pad.
What would you say the heaviest boolit would be that the action will cycle? Henry says nothing over 270 grains but I have anecdotal evidence that they will cycle 300 grain pills easily and possibly more. Have you tried anything over 300 grains with yours? Thanks
Very nice! I just picked up one of these. It Came through the shop I do gunsmithing for and i just had to have it. My very first lever action. Also snagged a older SASS Vaquero set. Both revolvers and Henry chamberd in 45c. Thats the problem working in a gun shop and being a shooter and collector. There is always something you have to have.....
Thanks for your question - Henry has a proprietary scope mount for the Big Boy that is attached to the barrel and extends onto the receiver. The scope is then positioned over the receiver as a normal scope position. This mount is ordered from Henry. They do not recommend drilling holes in the receiver. But once mounted, it works fine. I'm thinking of putting some Skinner peep sights on my 45 Colt Big Boy.
Dude your apartment leaves a little to be desired but your Henry is BAD ASS!!! Very good vid man!!
Kudos on a great lever action, glad you like it.
ScubaOz - Having the Henry BB in 45 Colt just makes me want a 1873 Winchester probably from Uberti…someday - gonna nab me one of those…Best Regards
They have a Uberti 1873 at one of my local gunshops, they keep trying to get me to handle it knowing once I do I will buy it lol. I love a good lever gun.
ScubaOz If my gunshop got one of those, I wouldn't even have to handle it...it would be a buy on sight...and rearrange the budget for the purchase later...I'd be liberating it for my grandsons after I'm gone...but in the meantime it would be "Fire for effect...!!" Best Regards
mark3smle-You are spot on. Cannot top off mag tube easily with this design. If you need more than 10 rounds, the Rossi M92 are FINE lever guns and costs less to boot. I like my Henry BB, but I also like my Rossi 92s.
Thanks for your comment. Loading via tube magazine not a problem for Cowboy Action - only ten rounds needed for any stage. Leave lever open when loading for extra safety. But there would be some rare times that not having loading gate would be troublesome. I like my Henry, but I like my Rossi 92s also.
I don't care what you say,you are a GOOD shot!!
+Johnny “johnnyc” c -- Sorry to not answer till now - Google did not put your comment in my inbox...Thank you for your kind comment....It's nice to know that after shooting up a pickup bed full of bullets, that I learned something along the way...Have a great day, FC
and for all the lever gun guys as myself... the henry does not like hollow points, and unless you get it modified by henry, you can only shoot factory loads
Valkman1520-thought I'd come back to your comment as I visited a newer gun shop and they had a whole slew of Henry 22 lever guns. Gotta wait to get one, because I just got something else and the wife will use my Kershaw Blur to skin me alive if I don't let the checkbook cool off for a while. Lead isn't the only thing that is Hot in the Hot Lead Zone...
The struggle is real lol
Great rifle and my favorite cal.
Henry Repeating Arms Company is located in Bayonne NJ. 3/4 miles from my house!!
Thanks, we all have to enjoy our lever action rifles in a big way. Right now, in pistol calibers, they are selling as quick as any dealers can get them. I wish that Henry would make a levergun in 45 ACP caliber - short, neat rounds with more ammo in the tubes.
I finally bought a .45 Big Boy Steel - Put a Skinner sight on it - Fast, accurate out to 100 yards - No feed or eject problems like Marlins - Easy loading - Handsome - Love it.
I can't imagine a better way for a father and son to spend time together than airing out some fine leverguns in tandem. And in 357 caliber, you've got accuracy, power enough for hunting, low recoil and economy to boot - what a hoot !! Thanks for the comment, your sub and keep up the good work with your site - I checked out some of the stuff therein. Happy Holidays
I don't know how I missed this one...nice one!
Larry-Thanks for the good word…always great hearing from you. Trust you are having a Happy Holiday Season…Best to ya...
FortuneCookie45LC Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year back at you, my friend!! It will be a great year to enjoy the HotLead Zone and to get 'fortunes' of wisdom from the master of fortunes...FortuneCookie45LC!!
The .45 Colt cartridge is a handgun cartridge dating to 1872. It began as a black powder revolver round developed for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, but is offered as a magnum level handgun hunting round in modern usage. This cartridge was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873 and served as the official US military handgun cartridge for 19 years. It is sometimes, although incorrectly, referred to as .45 LONG Colt or .45LC to differentiate it from the shorter.45 Schofield.
My wife just informed me that I can get myself this gun got Christmas. I almost cried.
littleteethkeith - Wives like that are more precious than jewels...!! In the next month, you can be deciding on the caliber of your choice - they are all good especially if you reload - if not - the 357 makes a lot of sense. Please let us all know about your experiences with the Henry Big Boy... Best to you and the fine wife - FC
FortuneCookie45LC I'm going with 45 Colt. I want to get a Ruger Blackhawk 45 Colt to go with it.
littleteethkeith - That's a great plan - I really like my 45 Colt BB a lot...Best to ya, FC
You need your wife's permission?
davidfw190 Yes. We discuss any purchases over $200.
Thanks for commenting. Some people say BBs are heavy, but when you draw down and the sights settle on target, and then that light trigger drops, you just know the quality. Just a bit of adjust & my sights were dead on. The doggone bullets hit within 3/4" at 25 yards offhand if we do our part. Unless you get a lemon, it's easy to really like this gun. That receiver is strong. Any caliber is good. Best wishes
OmegaPrepper- Thanks for the comment - It won't take you long - those are Marble type sights and much better than the old lever gun sights or even the current sights on Rossi M92s. They all work though, but some describe them as being "crude". Your Henry sights are the least "crude" of all of 'em. Good shootin' to ya and congratulations on getting an outstanding rifle. Shooting factory will keep you broke...if you cast your own, you'll be splitting playing cards for cheap...
selina kyle - Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone…appreciate your visit. The armed woman with a smile is an indelible part of America. Whether realized or not, whether heralded or condemned, it is core to us as a nation and a people. And it is one of the factors that make people want to come and be an American. Live long and prosper: you are one selina kyle…Best Regards in the HLZ… (isn't English beautiful?? especially when it's used from the heart)
Like the creativity of the display using the FXlightsabre stand to hold up the rifle.
About 5 days ago I just got the new Henry Big Boy Steel 45 Colt. Beautiful wood, and checkering too. This is one gorgeous rifle, and I've put about 70 rounds through it so far. Zeroed it at 100 yards. Wow it's a nice one!!! -Gunny T sends
@blackwood737 Davidson's had some Big Boys 2-3 months ago...no more at this time. Good luck getting yours...it will be worth the wait. You will be able to shoot anything from cowboy to bear loads, and don't let the brass receiver fool you...strength is there.
I'm definitely purchasing one soon found it at my local gun shop very scratched but a beautiful rifle got a44 mag ruger.Vaquero as a trail riding companion
+wyominghorseman994 -- You are ready for anything that comes along short of Martians behind deflector shields and armed with phase cannon...better shoot a bank shot off of them rocks... Happy Holidays... FC
+FortuneCookie45LC merry Christmas to you to sir
Hi bought my Henry 45/70 last week like it so much just ordered my Henry 30-30 great rifles
Love the Henry. I just found a Henry .357/.38 today and Yes!!! I bought one. Can't wait til I pick it up and get out to shoot it
Jim-Congratulations on that Henry Big Boy - It's a beautiful rifle that will give you much pleasure shooting at the range, and you will be able to hunt anything up to 350 pounds (deer, black bear, hogs, even elk) and LeverRevolution will give you extended range - 180 grain bullets will give you hitting power...but I suspect you know all that - Good choice!!
Depends on the load and what rifle you're using.
In .45 Colt, in Marlin or other strong rifles, you can get just a bit over 1300 foot pounds out of strong handloads or +P factory loads.
In .45-70 with Marlin or stronger rifles, you can use loads that generate well over 3500 foot pounds.
If you stick to standard factory loads for both, expect about 800 foot pounds max from .45 Colt and 2200 foot pounds from .45-70, still plenty for deer.
Even .45-70 factory loads are plenty for Grizzly bear!
Thanks...That there is a great quote.
Thanks for your question. MrAgentd knows his 45s. The 45/70 (and even more powerful rounds) was used by hunters to clear the plains of buffalo during the 1870s. And the 45 Colt was the most powerful factory pistol cartridge until the 357 magnum came along in 1935. Handloads of the 45 Colt in STRONG revolvers rivals the power of the 44 magnum (but many more powerful rounds have evolved since to the present day king - 500 S & W Magnum)
Jim Dent-The Henry Big Boy has a lug lockup on the bolt - it is not the simple weak toggle link action like the 1873 Winchester or before (although Uberti is chambering their current 1873 for 44 magnum). Henry Big Boys are also chambered for 44 magnum, so they can stand the pressure. Even though you could, I'd tell anyone who wants to listen to keep from overstoking your HBB in 45 Colt - stay with +P+ or under for most shooting and save the 300 grain 1300-1400 fps bruisers for hunting.
Just bought one. cant wait to shoot it but unfortunately I cannot find outdoor ranges in Northern Virginia. All very seclusive.
45 lc is a low power pistol round but can be loaded to surpass 44 mag performance.
Nice review. I love lever actions. The first firearm I ever purchased with money from my first job was a Yellow Boy in 44-40. That was a beautiful carbine and fun to shoot. I'm definitely going to have to pick up a Big Boy. Thanks for sharing.
45-70 is a rifle round big enough to kill a Buffalo, 45LC is a powerful pistol round.
mrwulfgar2001-"Use the Force, Luke..." Obi-wan Kenobe to Luke Skywalker screaming down the DeathStar trench...
Nice Henry.
I'm guessing your lower two targets were shot at 25 yards, correct?
I'm with you on your earlier post regarding feeding hollowpoints, since you clearly were shooting SWCs in it for this particular session.
Why would an HP be any less likely to feed?
btw...I use the Hornady LeveRevolution bullets for my hunting round in my Marlin 1894 .45 Colt, and I took my first ever deer with one last year using that combination.
I can put ten inside a single ragged hole @ 50 yards.
"Hey Big Boy, ya glad to see me, or is that a gun in your pocket?" Mae West. And, Oh BTW, good review.
howard2374 Thanks and - Yessirreebob!!! That Mae West was quite a woman...I think if I ever met her, she wouldn't give the runt kid the time of day, but I'd pass out from not breathing anyway....And same would go if I ever met MM - she'd tell the teenager to get lost, but that would be hard to do once the teenager went into swoon mode. Today, the realization that the bigger the celebrity, the more screwed up they are, the more money is in the mix, and the less they want to have anything to do with the regular people, I'd just look 'em in the eye and say 'Thank you so much for being here". Best to ya
+howard2374 - Sorry I missed that comment - Google did not post it in my inbox... Yep, that Mae West was a lot of woman way ahead of her time...she was a pioneer in her own way, but as subtle as a 255 grain 45 caliber Semi-Wadcutter... Best to ya, FC
Hi, I reload for my Bisley Blackhawk 45 Colt and Rossi R92 454 Casull. A friend of mine hunts (and eats) black bears in northern Ontario, which involves daily baiting - most often walking on a trail, alone. Since carrying a handgun in the woods is not legal here, but a Henry Mare's Leg is considered to be a non-restricted rifle in Canada, it is the handiest thing to carry while hauling buckets of molasses and oat feed. So, he bought a 45 Colt mostly because he couldn't find a 44 magnum, locally. He also bought the 225 gr Hornady FTX ammo, which was expensive, and rather mild to shoot. He mentioned this, and I offered to show him how to reload. Then he bought Hornady 250 gr XTP HP bullets, large primers, and AA#9 powder. That's last ingredient is where I'm in a little conundrum. That powder is only listed for Ruger only loads. Can a Henry handle it, or can it be loaded under the start load to reduce the pressure? Or, should I get another powder? If so, what powder do you recommend for a good stout load?
Yes, the henry can handle it. Try H110 or Lil Gun for your +P loads
Classic !
Little Holmes - Thanks for the good word…and you can bet I like my Henry. Have a great day...
I got the henry big boy 45 colt on the 5th it's going to take some time to get used to the sights
Oh, and I forgot to mention that I enjoyed your Yogi Bear reference...appreciate the great sense of humor. Have a real fine day!!
you have very good taste in guns...
I wish they made a henry lever or pump action in 10mm acp. This would be an awesome cartridge in a rifle. They make 10mm acp factory ammo that has 750 ft/lbs of muzzle energy, it is longer than a 45acp and has more velocity. A 45 Long colt that would fire the 45acp would be even better maybe. Ball ammo should be as safe as round nose. Back in the old days having a pistol and rifle that fired the same caliber was almost a necessety. It would be tremendously convenient for people today that cant afford a lot of different guns and many types of ammo and love to shoot and hunt. A 45acp would be a bit lacking for deer unless you were less than 40 yards away. On the other hand a 10 mm is longer a bit lighter in weight, much higher velocity, and fired out of a good lever or pump action rifle with an 18"-22" barrel would reach nice velocities and of course the pistol ammo pushing 750 ft/lbs out of a 5" muzzle..... This would be raised to around 900 ft/lbs out of a 20" rifle barrel being plenty powerfull for deer and smaller size game at the less than 300 yard range. I know others have thought of it, its the perfect pistol/rifle round for everything from plinking, competition and up to medium size game. For the size of the cartridge, it packs the most punch. twice the power of a 38, nearly half the size. Not as big and heavy as a 45 long colt, but with several factory loads you get twice the velocity and easily twice the muzzle energy. Sure you can tote a blackhawk w long colt hot loads but with the 10mm any semi auto pistol of different styles from 1911 to Glock. I would buy one for sure. I like the Henry lever and pump action in the octagon barrel. Hook it up Henry, im sure this would be the perfect size lever action with exellent performance and multi purpose use, pistol/rifle combo. Get er Done Son!!!!
+Krupp88 Metal -- Henry could easily make lever guns (they make only one pump gun - a 22) in 10mm, 41 mag, 45 acp or 9mm (the 9mm would be very popular in cowboy action as it would be a very efficient, short case load that would function quick and well, plentiful brass and components, cheap to shoot, and 10 rounds easy in a very short barrel / tube magazine) The other calibers would be produced if they had reason to believe that they would sell enough of 'em to be worth their while...but the 9mm is the most popular centerfire caliber in the US - should go ahead with that. The 10mm would be a very fine hunting carbine for sure... Best Regards, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC no doubt. the 38 is old and has twice the length it needs. A .40 caliber is comparable to a 38 special. I like the 10mm for a pump or lever gun idea cause it has velocity and power that makes it useful for more than just plinking. I would not hunt deer w a 9mm but a 10mm is plenty. Another caliber i like that had a short life when i was younger is the 357 maximum. 3" case. They never chambered it in a true rifle. I have fired it in a 10" or 14" contender pistol frame i cant remember but it was chambered in blackhawk too. The flash burned the finish around the cylinder so it was recalled. But a lever gun would be grizz or moose stopper. I know a guy that claims he shot a wild boar w his maximum blackhawk and it went in its head and came out its ham. So the story goes. But i have fired this beast. I have not seen ammo in years and it was superior to a 44mag. Another good potential lever gun caliber, or bolt action for that matter, its 3.5" w projectile. Prob comparable to a 454 but i believe the velocities are higher, plus it will shoot the 357 mag and 38 as well. I thought it had good potential.
+Krupp88 Metal -- The 357 Maximum was developed for the sport of Metallic Silhouette, but like you say, it has faded. In a single shot, it ceases to be bear protection, but is more than adequate for hunting. We can dream all we want, but the makers will still only produce what will sell well. The 9mm would be first on the docket. If it did well, the door would be open for other calibers... Best Regards, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC thats fine if you like the 9mm. I prefer the 45auto 1911 myself. They have 454 lever guns but no 9mm that i know of. I guess they produce what they want. Dang i was trying to make conversation not argue buddy. Takes 3 9mm rounds rapid to knock over a 250 lb steal target on a hinge. Takes one 45. Everyone has there favorite. I like em all, just cant afford but a couple so i want a rifle that fires an adequate pistol cartridge. That ruger blackhawk 30 carbine aint bad. 45 long colts pretty good w new high octane loads. They make calibers all the time that dont last. I know all about the max cause i reload em. I thought it was a keeper cause its versatility. Like the 454 you can use some hot 45LC and save ammo cost. I guess you wasnt interested in talk, just the 9mm. Army is going back to the 45 and looking to chamber the AR in a more effective round, they have developed a few new ones but the 308 has been there all along.
+FortuneCookie45LC a 9mm rifle would be no good for hunting. Its a pop pistol round, im talkin bout multi purpose. They already make a 6" barrel 10mm for hunting. 1911 long slide and Glock 40 are two popular ones. I talk rounds alot cause i grew up around gunshops and gunsmiths. I simply mean that for a round that is a good pistol and powerfull enough for hunting is what i would want. Out of the acp pistol rounds the 10mm isnt as pop as a 9mm,40cal( 10mm short) and 45 autos but to have one cal for an auto and a lever gun the 10 has that balance factor. Right bullet weight to powder load ratio that puts it triple the energy of the 9×19, double the velocity of a 45auto but still a couple hundred ft/lbs more than the 45. I dont even own a 10mm, but i would if they had a lever gun that fired it. The 45LC is great and is available in both but its a heavy cartridge and expensive too. That Thompson single shot is super accurate, one is all you need for hunting unless your on a Safari. My father loves to shoot that 45-70 contender barrel, a little hard on my wrist to be honest. happy shootin.
Capt'Able - I do rub the stock with Ballistol after every time to the range with it (about 1x a month). The Ballistol drives out moisture and is good for the wood. Best Regards and thanks for the good question. Welcome to the HLZ.
I would suggest that you slug the barrel and mike out the groove diameter of your bore. If it is out of spec, that would explain the accuracy problem. You should shoot bullets .001" bigger than groove diameter for best accuracy. It problem not solved, you should send rifle back to Henry with explanation, target and some loads (but not in the rifle or you violate federal law). For what we spend for the BB, Henry will stand behind their products. Please post your progress-we need to know.
PinkOld - great vid - that Marlin is a keeper. Shootin' fun for sure. Bring home the venison!!
Thanks for the comment. Checked out your Project Channel - lots of good stuff there. Liked the Garand and trigger control vids the best. And you have subscribed to some outstanding sites.
255 gr RNFP Lee cast bullets with 8 gr Unique = 1060 fps MV with minor recoil - very fun offhand load for 25-50 yards
And thank you for telling about your Yellow Boy in classic 44-40. The 66 Winchester is a very smooth action used by a fair number of Cowboy Action shooters. I really like my Big Boy, and I also like my 92 Rossis. As you say, the levers are just fine. Good shootin' to ya...
Great looking rifle you have there! I'm re-visiting these Henry Big Boy's. Small negative for me is that it has to be loaded through the tube and not through the receiver.
Valkman1520- An outstanding value in lever guns is Rossi - faithful copies of Winchester M92 in pistol calibers and Rio Grand in 30/30 and 45/70 - that's a full line of lever guns and prices are well below the Win, Henrys, and Ubertis. Plus they shoot up a storm...Best Regards...
i need to get me 1 of these i like the idea of 1 caliber 2 guns i carry a 410/45lc revolver for self deffence
Just got one Christmas present from wife. What is your ammo of choice for plinking Have you ever used Oregon Trail Laser-Cast 250gr rnfp for reloads.
Mark Lowe - Wow, reminds me of my own wife Jan when she gave me an M1 Garand for Christmas!! Wives like that are sprinkled around, but they definitely don't grow on trees!! We gotta take care of those gals. The OTLC 250 RNFP is well regarded. Be sure to get yours in .452". The .451" may be fine, but the .452 is a can't miss!! Congratulations to you... Merry Christmas and Best Regards
I'm not into tube loading leverguns unless they shoot 22LR.
Having said that I just bought a brand spanking new Henry Frontier model H001T with the 20" octagon barrel in 22LR today to see what this Henry craze is all about. It's the blue receiver version of the fancied up H004 with brassite receiver which is optically way too "loud" for a hunting gun. I don't need the game to be able to see the flashes from my gun a mile away on a sunny day.
I'm told it rivals the Marlin 39A in workmanship, accuracy and smoothness. I'll be the one to decide that after the range trial. I'll take it to the range this week. If I really like the H001T I might look at a centre fire Henry.
+bushed274 -- Funny thing about lever guns - although accurate, they aren't as accurate as other guns (no benchrest titles for levers), and they won't shoot as fast as semi-autos or fully automatic weapons - but they are fast handling, smooth and quick, effective, distinctly American, and the fun and romance factors are high. Some have complained about the lower end Henry quality of materials, but the higher end products (like your Frontier model) are very nice. As for high end 22 levers - the Henry, the Marlin 39A (esp. the old ones), Winchester 9422, and the Browning are first mentioned. The quality of the Henry centerfire rivals that of the Ubertis My prediction is you will really like your Henry - and so will anyone you let shoot it... Best to ya, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC Agreed. Another point is that while admittedly levers aren't as inherently accurate as some other action types an accurate levergun is as accurate as most (probably about 99.9%) shooters. For example, I watched a guy on a youtube video throw and shoot a plastic bottle out of the air with a Rossi 92 in 357 mag yesterday. I have a Rossi 92 in 357 mag but I can't equal that feat. The limiting factor for me is certainly not my Rossi 92.
+bushed274 -- that's a trick shot that most can do with practice. Idea is to build a consistent gun mount (note - this can be a standard gun mount or a creative one - like gun over the head, gun upside down, etc) the gun will shoot to a certain spot as you are looking downrange. Then, with aerial target, we mount the gun and follow the moving target with that spot, tripping the trigger when our brain says they intersect. Hits will come. If we are trying to get sights lined up, we will never be able to focus on the target and that is the essential thing in hitting aerials. Hard to work on this except in desolate areas. Best to ya, FC
ok for nostalgia, but for me, the hipoint semi-auto .45acp carbine makes more sense. A little over 1/3 the price and cheaper to shoot, shoots a similar heavy near sonic bullet, effective for game out to ~150 yds in a modern commonly used pistol cartridge. I like the .45LC (have Ruger blackhawk), but ammo is expensive and difficult to find.
+mike parker -- That's because you don't reload, mike. Personally, I like to send big heavy slugs down range at +P so reloading fills the bill - has for the past 40+ years. If I had to purchase factory ammo, I would recommend against the 45 Colt as it is mucho dinero to feed (it won't be a keeper). Reloading, I can shoot all the 45 Colt I want for 7 cents a shot - much cheaper than even 22LR with more bang and smack to boot. Reloading opens up the world of shooting in ways hither and yon, with untold pleasure and satisfaction. Your highpoint is a good way to go. For factory ammo shooters, it's really simple = 22LR, 9mm, 357, 223 (5.56), or 12 gauge. These are, bar none, America's favorite calibers (the 38 is in the 357). Good shootin' to ya... FC
+FortuneCookie45LC I do reload both the .45lc and .45acp. My comment is only that the .45acp semiauto carbine is pretty much the ballistic equal of the .45LC lever action rifle, but cheaper (half the cost), probably a bit more accurate, and easier to shoot and reload for. Lever actions do have nostalgic value... as does the long colt so its a personal preference thing- just noting that there are other options if you like high caliber bullets.
+mike parker -- Points well taken - sorry I assumed you did not reload - bad assumption. Have a great day, FC
I've got a Henry golden boy 22lr for my son and would like to have the big boy 357 to shoot together
mark3smle- on the quality of Rossi firearms, since Rossi became a subsidiary of Taurus, the combined firm named BrazilTech (or something of that nature), the quality, fit and finish of Rossis, especially their lever guns, has been very good. If you look at my vids on the Rossi 92 recently, you will find that they are beautiful and shoot very accurately and consistently (splitting playing cards offhand up to 25 yards). Best Regards...
Hey Boo-Boo, how's about we get us a pic-ih-nic basket?
PinOld-Thanks for the post-you have the type of comment that screams to be made into a video - popular to leverlovers - lots of them out there. As for me, I'll just keep the casting pots heated up to make those great RNFPs for my levers. Good huntin' to ya...
I just recently got a standard henry 22 lever action. the fore end is a little loose but other than that it seems pretty well built. I still think the marlin 39a (the older ones) r better built guns. very smooth action. cant wait to shoot some shorts out of it.
redneckmini14-The Henry 22s I've seen at the gun store didn't have a loose fore end. I don't own any Henry 22 rifles since I already have the 39A and Winchester 9422 - and with the scarce 22 these days, I'm not shooting either of those like I used to…Best to ya…Happy Holidays again...
Great vid I like the deluxe model in particular
I'd love to get the Henry 45/70 as a hunting rifle, I am not familiar with the 45 long colt round. What is the difference between 45/70 and 45lc?
Hey any chance of answering my q about 45lc length for henry BB
Great channel very informative, if you ever head back to New Orleans area we would love you to come out to our range. Outdoor range and its 100% veteran owned and military weapons are allowed up to a .70 cal rifle . Thanks again for great videos and a real insight into reloading keep it up and let us know if there is any brass or ammo you could use I would be happy to donate to your channel
+sam long -- Wow, Sam, I should have posted my New Orleans trip before I took it...would have been great to visit the range - After all, we are talking about the Shooting Corridor of America right there in Jerry Miculek territory right up around to Tennessee and 'Caintuck. As you know, my channel is strictly for any viewers to come if they choose and have a good time and take whatever information might help them or not... no strings attached. My philosophy is that the shooting sports are so infinite and diverse in subject matter and interest that even collectively we can never exhaust it all, but that if we all tried together, that would be extremely marvelous. As such, anything that anyone would ever wish to send me would be highly valued and fed back into the mill for all to enjoy... Best Regards to ya, FC
Looks awesome! I want one in .357 to go with the revolver I'm getting for my birthday!
I love the old single action revolvers. I would really like to get a lever gun in 45, when finances allow. You have a very rice rifle. We bought our boys the Henry Golden Boy 22's, and they have a blast shooting them.
Hi FC45LC love you videos, I have the henry BB45 lc but have little reloading experianceand have trouble with feeding I thinking it is a cartridge length issue could you tell me what you make you set you cartridge over all length to ? thanks
What is the heaviest bullet that you have successfully reloaded for the Henry bb 45 colt?
45 colt 45 colt 45 colt
Wonderful!! There's a whole lot of love when someone gets a 357 revolver for their birthday!! Whether new or used, a 357 revolver made by any major gun maker is a shootin' iron to be reckoned with pardner !! And the Big Boy will be a fine companion - wait till you have a longer shot and that Big Boy settles on target and you let off that sweet trigger - Good shootin' to ya'
I'm sure that Mae West would prefer her Big Boys to be deluxe as well. Good shootin' to ya.
These 'kids' don't know who Mae West was.
Thanks for comment; let's go shoot up a storm
The real Mae West quote was, "When I'm good I'm good, when I'm bad I'm great"
Have you had any problems with this rifle yet? I was looking at buying in 45
James Ross The rifle is extremely accurate and smooth in operation. I did have a problem with it - the extractor became inoperative after about five years of use, and I had to send it back to Henry - they fixed it for no charge, and all I had to pay was shipping...The gun shop that I bought it from handled it for me...All in all, I really like that rifle. The Rossi 92 is an alternative in a new lever gun in 45 Colt - it is slightly less accurate and not as smooth as the Henry, but is much less costly. The Ubertis are more historic than the Henry Big Boy, but are no more quality - and the cost is equal to or more than the Henry. If buying used, if you can find a good condition Marlin 1894 or Winchester 94 in 45 Colt you better buy it before I find it or I'll buy it before you do ;) ...Best Regards and Good shootin' to ya
hey james
1848dragoon-Thanks for the info on the HBB strength - some shooters also have qualms about the "brass" frame, but in reality, it is an alloy that has all the strength we need. I'm going to get this comment of yours to Jim Dent as he had concerns. Thanks again for a more technical answer to his question...
Jim Dent -some shooters also have qualms about the "weak brass" frame, but in reality, it is an alloy that has all the strength we need. And be sure to check out 1848dragoon comment on the Henry BB strength...Best Regards..
001tonbushcrafting- Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone - If you see one of these and work the action, you will smile. But when you see the price tag, you'll cringe. You'll still want one, but I tell everyone who will listen that they need to give the Rossi M92s (esp. the stainless) a look before they decide. Best Regards to ya...
I'd like the "Big Boy" except for the brass receiver itself. How do you maintain this rifle without scratching or marring it? Impossible, unless you just let it age, wear, and patina to an aged/used finish? I believe I favor the traditional blue finish or "all weather" stainless. I also like the skinner sights over the buckhorn, certainly adequate. Nice shooting.
Walter Palmer - The receiver is actually not brass, but an alloy that can withstand 44 magnum - Henry has made other models in steel receivers for those who so prefer. The "brass" receiver can be scratched and marred equally like steel. The strength of the Henry action is equal to that of Marlins - plenty for our use. The Skinners are good sights, I know that I will try those at some point... Best to ya, Walter FC
Hi FortuneCookie45LC
My friend! I know your a fan of the 45lc I was wondering what distance would these rifles shoot out too? as I own one in a Rossi 92 20" barrel stainless for value I'm very impressed with it, I reload my own of course as I shoot western action and sight my loads on a indoor range before use in matches, now the sights are the same as the Henry but my eyes at long distance are getting sad lol. And I find it hard to focus properly I'm good for up to 20yards, I was thinking of getting a set of layman tang sights peep hole to help me so if I was to go hunting I would actually know its capabilities n distance
Your advise would be greatly appreciated
Sam
sam agiakatsikas - The aperture sights help, but only a little. A big part of the problem is accommodation - the eye is able to shift focus quickly enough that more than one focal length is in or nearly in focus. Without that, aperture sights still will not help. If hunting anything past 40 yards, a variable tactical scope is very hard to beat. In fact, at 1X, the tactical scope beats any iron sight at any range still handy in a carbine or scout rifle... Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC I use this lever action for cowboy action and really didn't want to attach a scope but anyway thank you for your help they have special on at the moment that I'm looking at for $695.00AUD a Savage stainless package in a 223 with a Bushnell 3x9 x40 that may suit better
sam agiakatsikas - Those Savage packages are very well put together, and stainless is choice...Best to ya, FC
any idea if the action, receiver, and barrel are as strong as the .44 mag?
+Lion Silver -- Yes, it is strong. But I'd still stay clear of the all out magnum 45 Colts. 1200 fps is easy to achieve with 255 gr RNFPs in the Henry BB. If one needs more power than that, time to get a 454 Casull M92 Rossi. Best Regards, FC
Thank FC. not looking to try anything crazy, just want to take advantage of the stronger action with a few jacketed bullets.
+Lion Silver --The Henry BB will shoot any 45 Colt ammo out there including the Cor-bons and Double Taps, etc...It's too nicely finished a rifle to beat up with a steady diet of hell raisers though, that's just my personal preference. I wouldn't hesitate to blast away with my Rossi 92s though.... Best Regards, FC
Arrrrrrgggggggghhhhhhhhh!!! It is driving me crazy, no such cartridge as .45 LONG Colt, only .45 Colt. Anyway, good review of the rifle as my wife is even looking at one.
John - Your wife will like it, 45 Colt is a fabulous cartridge. As for the L--g Colt, it's all OK...(this was an early video) I only call it the 45 Colt now since a lot of the 45 Colt fans hate it any other way. Since the 45 Colt is my favorite cartridge - might as well go with the 45 Colt (the Long Colt camp doesn't have any problems with the 45 Colt). All the oldest videos of mine might still say the L--g, though - please disregard that. Best Regards to you and Happy Holidays...
italianrelic-wow, location, location, location. I can imagine spending some free time there. Henry 22 lever actions are available, and I am tempted to buy one (even though I already have the Marlin 39A and Win 9422), but ammo availability and pricing is holding me back...Thanks for sharing your good fortune - you should visit over there and post a video...
Thanks
Actually, I have a vid of myself shooting the Marlin up here already.
I could have done much better at the 50 yards this particular day, but it's still not too bad considering that I wasn't really trying at the time.
Hey FortuneCookie45LC I have the 45 Colt Henry as well I was wondering do you put anything on the Wood stock to protect it? like citrus oil or anything?
Nope, but long live Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. And may Manila have peace and prosperity. Best regards to you.
My boyfriend owns this gun and has been having issues getting the proper ammunition. Cabelas sold him Bear Loads which hung up in the gun...would not feed . Then two other places sold him Blazer ammo with aluminum casings. What is recommend for this gun? Thank You.
+linda harter - AHA!! Methinks you are shopping for ammo gifts...not bad, Linda - any shooter loves to get factory ammo. The best feeding ammo for lever action rifles is the RNFPs. Round nose bullets would be good also as well as the truncated cones. The Bear Loads might be the wide nose flat points heavy bullet penetrator loads - they might just have feeding problems because of the wide flat nose. If your boyfriends gun is the 45 Colt, that Blazer ammo is among the most reasonable in cost. Problem with the 45 Colt is factory ammo is very expensive to shoot. Reloading is the only way to go when shooting the 45 Colt or the 44 Magnum. Shooting costs go down to 7 cents a shot reloading with home cast bullets. Brings costs down to like shooting 22 rimfires, but only if reloading. A good box of 45 Colt ammo will go for over $50 US money (Gahhh!!). If he likes the Blazers, you can get him more of those ($40 a box). Be sure to go out and shoot with him - we guys love women that can handle hardware especially in high heels...hmmm...forget I said that, any shoes will do. Happy Holidays, FC
FortuneCookie45LC Can the henry 45 colt handle those +P loads and hot loads?
van shaddinger - The Henry is on the same design as the Marlin 1894s - well strong enough to handle 44 magnum so yes, +P and +P+ loadings are fine in Henrys. So any factory loadings of the 45 Colt and any published loading data for the 45 Colt (including the hot stuff) are good to go...Happy New Year to ya..!! FC
FortuneCookie45LC Thanks
Hy Mr. FC45LC, Can I shoot the TL-452-200-SWC in this riffle? Is there a danger of chain reaction in the tube?
FCLC45... help.... working on a hunting load for my 357 Big Boy Steel... Using a very nice 187 gr hard cast WFNGC bullet and Alliant 300-MP powder and getting velocity around 1900 FPS. Need to retain down-field ME of greater than 1000 ft-lbs @100 yds due to CO hunting regs, hence the need for higher velocity to achieve down field ME. No signs of pressure issues with my load, but it is slightly compressed. Using heavy crimp applied with Lee FCD at crimp groove. Now the problem... accuracy sucks, groups of 6 - 10 in. @ 100 yds. checked bullet stability using barrel twist rate, bullet dimensions, and velocity. All indicate bullet should be stable out of this firearm. Load consistency is great... SDs are less than +-10 fps. Other than usual suspects like scope issue or crown damage, what else could be going on with my accuracy?
Steve Trent - Congrats on your BB Steel - fine rifle. I don't believe there is any reloading data for that powder with those 187 grainers, but sounds like you've got a good load there probably maximum - going to be hard to milk any more MV out of that combo. Seating the bullets out farther is going to have functioning issues. As for accuracy - I've heard of shooters measuring their rifling twists with 357 Magnum rifles getting everything from 1x14" to 1x19". You will need some extra twist rate to stabilize that bullet at distance. If you are getting good accuracy with that load at 50 yards, that's probably it - losing stability at distance and the regular solution of boosting the MV won't work for you. Another reason might be the groove diameter. If your bullets mike .358", that should be OK unless your barrel needs .359s. If you have some .359s and they shoot more accurately, you've found that solution, but of course, slugging the barrel is the best determiner. Lever gun accuracy past 75 yards with cast bullets is not easily obtained anyway - I'm happy with cast bullets shooting into 4" at 75 yards, but the range that has 75 yard target stands closed up early this year. How do Hornady LeveRevolution ammo or reloads shoot in your gun? A lot of shooters wound up with 300MP powder during the powder shortages. I like H110 for my 357s including the 207 grain Lee cast - had same problem - needed all the MV I could get to maintain stability at 75 yards. Good shootin' to ya, FC
I was just wondering if the Henry would handle heavily loaded cartridges. I have a reloading manual that illustrates two different loadings one is for weak action 45s and the other is for strong action 45s.
Thanks
357 or 45LC which one would you pick???...
Joe Breeding - Easy - I own the 45 Colt version. But that's because I reload. If I weren't a reloader, I'd pick the 357 because of the wide availability and cost of ammo, both 357 and 38. Best to ya, FC
steve thompson-Sorry you are having difficulty with HPs-My Big Boy has no problems Hornady XTPs-are HPs you are using too aggressive? Try Hornady Leverevolution loads-they expand VERY nicely for hunting and feed great (too expensive at range). But lever action rifles REALLY SING with home cast RNFPs (they RULE).My Henry, Rossi 92s, and Winchester 94 just gobble up everything including factory magnums.Bullet shape is critical - No SWCs in my levers. Ya want power? magnum 300 gr RNFPs smack'em.
Do you reload for this? I need some recipes that are not pistol loads. Thanks
greybear73 - Sorry that the last comment reply was indeed pistol / rifle ammo. When I shoot heavy loads in my 44 magnum or 45 Colt in my Henry or Rossi leverguns - they use the 310 grain and 300 grain RNFP gas checks from Lee (those are the heaviest bullet molds they make) and max charges of 2400 or H110 powder. I won't give you the exact charge weights as they are well published, and you will have to work up with those anyway (H110 has a narrow range). One thing though - these loads have some fair recoil. Best to ya, FC
Hi boss can you help me i want a 30 -30 I've been looking at the Henry or winchester 26 inch from 1894-1994. Hundred years conmemorative the winchester go for 1000$ the Henry will be new but they don't make 26 inch barril ,i wonder if henry can special oders in tha size , thank you for your videos i enjoy them a lot God bless you
How's that Henry 45 as far as feeding. The wife wants one in 22 but a friend of mine has one in 357 and it had feeding problems, won't feed 38's. So he sent it back and it still don't feed right. Henry said its only designed to fire 158 grain or heavier. My opinion that makes the gun junk, for my older (not the newer) Marlin 357 will fire everything I load, even mixing 38 and 357 and several weight bulletsin the tube. He also got a Henry 22 (not the yellowboy) and it came from the factory with the sight mounted wrong and it shot 2-3 feet to left at 100yards. they sent him a new gun. So the wife (and kids) ended up with a Ruger American compact 22 for xmas. Wife still wants the Henry but for the price and experience I don't see one in the safe anytime soon. An old Marlin in 357 Maximum would be nice, but they don't exist.
+jeremy74pow -- The Marlin 1894s are still hard to find, even used ones are hard to find. I got mine in 44 mag used, all beat up...I bought it anyway, cleaned it up (nice!!), and it's a keeper for sure...Needs cast bullets a bit on the big side, but that absolutely A-OK-no problemo. My Henry Big Boy 45 Colt feeds every 45 Colt I've stuffed into it so far- shoots very accurately and the best trigger on any factory lever gun bar none...But can't speak for the 357 Henry. Have a great day, FC
+jeremy74pow - An alternative to the Henry is the Rossi M92 - some say that the Rossi M92 is not as quality made, but it is a faithful repro of the Winchester M92 John Browning design. If you want fit and finish and "quality", then get the 24" hexagon version of the Rossi M92 - if you like blue, the case harden receiver is lovely. If you like stainless steel, the 24" rifle M92 is simply nicely nice - you couldn't pry that off my hands with a crowbar. I have the Henry 45 Colt Big Boy as well and I like it - feeds all 45 Colt with ravenous appetite, but is on the expensive side - accurate and best trigger on a lever gun though. The Rossi M92 44 mag in 24" octagon is one of my favorite 44 mags. But if you want handy, the Rossi M92 with 16" barrels are dandy. If CAS, then the 20" version in 357 is what you want (however, you will lose to equal talent armed with 1873s, 66s and 60s. Your wife wanting the Henry is because she has good tastes. The Henry will fill the bill especially in big bore caliber - like on the frontier. If you really want to treat her - get the Uberti 1873 or 66 - if she is a real honey, then get her the real honey - Uberti 1866 Sporting Rifle 45 Colt Yellowboy - much better than buying her jewelry. PS, don't let her read this reply or you will be doomed, just doomed. Ahhh, we should all be so doomed. -- FC
+FortuneCookie45LC I prefer my Marlin in 357. Maybe one day I'll find one in 41 mag. I don't like the new lever guns with the crossbolt safety. safety on a lever gun is pointless. back when Winchester came out with the safety two of my friends bought 30-30s and when they pulled the trigger the safeties would engage and the guns wouldn't fire.
+jeremy74pow -- If you talk to enough shooters, you will get all kinds of opinions on those lever gun safeties. And some would be passionate over their use as if they were the best thing since chopped liver. Everybody wants safety as the world is a dangerous place. Responsibility and all the subsets thereof - are the best safeties. Best to ya, FC
Dudes voice is painful. Was wondering what happened to Corky from life goes on.
Over 90 days since I paid for mine and it still hasn't arrived yet. Disappointing to say the least. Getting ready to pull the plug on it and get my money back from my dealer.
***** Sounds like they are back ordered. There are Henry rifles on the racks at our local gun stores, but they are the 22LR lever guns. Must be a big demand for the Big Boys at this time...I'm glad I have mine. I think there is a backlog on some of the Ubertis also at this time. And even the Rossi 92s are selling very well...the interest on lever guns is very strong... Best to ya...
***** Just checked for you - what's happening is that Henry is making some Big Boys deluxe and commemoratives. And your order is hitting right at the wrong time...these special production guns are selling for several hundred more than the regular models. The regular Big Boy is already finely finished. Personally, I don't need a Commemorative Henry. That could help explain the shortage on the regular Big Boys - high demand and allocation to special Henrys. Reminds me of Cary having to wait two years for his Shiloh Sharps 45/70. I hope you'll get a date on delivery...it is the waiting and not knowing that is hard. I don't blame you a bit for your frustration... Best to ya
FortuneCookie45LC Thank You for checking, but honestly, I've heard a ton of excuses already from Henry and the distributor. "They're on backorder, there's a shortage of this one part, they are only making commemoratives, the distributor got the invoice wrong, the invoice is in "picking" (whatever that means)," blah blah blah with each excuse comes another promise that it'll be in my hands in 3 more weeks. My last e-mail to Henry suggested I go to Gun Broker to get one (HELLO! I already PAID for one!) Henry should re-evaluate which guns get priority. Old orders should come first. It steams me that some dude that can afford a $2200 Engraved job gets priority over mine when he just ordered his. Jeeze! If I ordered a commemorative or custom job, I'd expect to have to wait, but a standard big boy taking over 3 months with no arrival date in site? Seems extreme to me. I hate to say it, but I'm about ready to pull the plug on the Henry (Too bad to, cause I've always wanted one) and order a Rossi 92 in stainless. I want to go shooting, not wait around for my dealer to call. A gun in hand is worth two still at the factory!
FortuneCookie45LC Thanks for being so understanding. You would make a great production supervisor at Henry.
It Finally came in, after once again being delayed and getting shipped to Wisconsin instead of to me! LOL! Can't make this stuff up, but it was worth the wait, every second of it! Most beautiful rifle ive ever owned!
Sounds so much like Tommy Chong.... maaaa.
45 Long Colt (45LC) is a misnomer. There was never a 45 short Colt. The standard name for the cartridge today is "45 Colt."
I do enjoy your videos. Thanks!
+Michael Smith -- know where you are coming from - I mostly say 45 Colt...the Long has a habit of getting in there on occasion... Have a great day, and thanks for tuning in.... FC
It is sometimes referred to as .45 Long Colt or .45LC, to differentiate it from the shorter .45 S&W Schofield, as both were used by the Army at the same period of time prior to the adoption of the M1887 Govt.[1]
+jjforeal2 -- Sounds good. But there are many that really, really hate the term 45 Long Colt...to save the hullabaloo, I just say 45 Colt - we all know to wit we refer in any case (ha, ha puny pun) Best Regards, FC
Let’s not be a troll, please. The history of the term adjective ‘long’ is provided by another commentator. I like the idea of preserving a bit of history.
Philip Barr-That sounds a bit obtuse, though, since no self respecting buck is going to wait around for 10 rounds to be fired unless the shooter is Lucas McCain AKA the Rifleman…Best Regards...