Thoughts on the Henry 357 Lever Action 16 Inch Barrel?

I’m looking to dive into the world of Henry lever action rifles, specifically the ones chambered in .357 Magnum with a 16-inch barrel. In recent discussions, I’ve seen a lot of passion surrounding this model, particularly in terms of its performance, specifications, and practical uses.

Specifications & Features

The Henry 357 lever action rifle with a 16-inch barrel offers a unique blend of portability and firepower. Some key features I find interesting include:

  • Barrel Length: At 16 inches, this barrel offers a balance between maneuverability and accuracy. I’ve read that it may be perfect for close to mid-range shooting, but I’m curious about the drop-off in performance at longer distances.
  • Caliber: Being chambered in .357 Magnum gives this rifle a great versatility. You can use .38 Special rounds for less recoil while still having the option to switch to .357 Magnum for heavier punch.
  • Action Type: The lever action mechanism is known for being quick and smooth. How does this compare in terms of speed versus bolt action or semi-automatic rifles in similar caliber?

Performance Insights

I’m keen to gather some personal insights from anyone who has experience with this rifle:

  • How does it perform in different shooting scenarios?
  • Any notable quirks or advantages you’ve experienced?
  • For those who’ve used it for hunting, how does it stack up against other rifles in its class?

Recommendations & Comparisons

If you’re a seasoned users or simply enthusiastic about Henry rifles:

  • Would you recommend this particular model for a novice shooter?
  • How does it compare to other lever actions in terms of reliability, maintenance, and overall value?

Lastly, if anyone has links to reputable dealers or online stores where this model is available, that would be greatly appreciated! I’m looking forward to your thoughts and feedback. Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences and advice!


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I’ve had the Henry 357 with a 16 inch barrel for about a year, and its accuracy is impressive. At 50 yards, I can consistently hit my targets. The barrel length really helps with steadiness.

That’s great to hear, Anna! I find the recoil very manageable too. It’s a pleasure to shoot, even after several rounds.

I’ve shot it in several competitions, and it performs really well under pressure. Rapid follow-ups are easy without much recoil to deal with. It’s a fun gun for practical shooting.

Samantha, have you found it good for longer distances too? I mostly shoot at close range, but I’m curious about its performance at 100 yards.

Good question, Alexa! I’ve tested it at 100 yards, and while it requires a little more attention on the sights, it definitely holds its own. Just remember to adjust your aim a bit higher.

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I’ve had the opposite experience, to be honest. The groups I shoot at 100 yards tend to be a bit scattered. Not sure if it’s me or the rifle…maybe some tuning needed? Anyone else felt this way?

I think it might depend on the ammo you’re using, Patricia. I noticed better groupings when I switched to specific loads. Have you tried various brands?

I’ve mostly used factory rounds but am open to experimenting. I just want a reliable experience when I’m out hunting or at the range. The last thing I want is to miss a shot due to ammo issues!

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In my opinion, it’s a great firearm for home defense! The 16-inch barrel gives you just enough range while remaining maneuverable.

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Absolutely, I feel the same! And it’s nice to have a lever action for a change; it gives off a cool, classic vibe while still being functional.

I’ve seen guys at the range running this model with such speed! It really impresses me how quickly they cycle through rounds.

Just be careful with that speed, Marc. I’ve seen a few mishaps when shooters get too excited with lever actions. Always prioritize safety first!

My favorite part about this rifle? It’s a blast to shoot with friends! Nothing like the sound of lever action in a shootout competition for a fun weekend.

I’ve had the Henry 357 Lever Action 16 Inch Barrel for a while now, and I can say the build quality is outstanding. The materials feel solid and it’s very well put together.

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I agree! The finish on mine is beautiful, and it really stands out. It’s a joy to handle.

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What do you think about the ergonomics? I find the lever action smooth and easy to operate, even with gloves on.

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The ergonomics are fantastic! It fits nicely in the hand and balances well, especially for a carbine.

I love the unique features like the side loading gate. It definitely adds to the functionality of the firearm.

Definitely! It feels a bit old-school, but it’s super practical—great design choice.

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