I bought a new Henry lever action rifle in .22 Long Rifle. It will accompany my scoped Mauser flat top bolt action .22 on range days when I just feel like relaxing. It's much less expensive than burning through 7.62x39 and 5.56 ammo at the same rate. Vastly less expensive than .308 (7.62x51), 8mm (7.92mm) or .303 Brit.
I've been thinking about a new rifle for a while. My last new firearm was purchased a year ago... A 12 gauge security type pump action shotgun. I wanted a shorter, faster pointing shotgun than my 8+1 Franchi LAW 12 semi-auto. Still, that didn't fill my need for a fun plinker. Henry makes some the best lever guns on earth. Butter-smooth actions and a lifetime warranty that can't be beat. I considered the very pretty Goldenboy, but I simply didn't think it was worth the extra $150 more than the standard Henry. I have owned several .22 caliber rifles in semi-auto and bolt actions. These included a heavily modded Ruger 10/22, some Remingtons and Marlins. However, the lever action rifle has always held a great deal of appeal for me. I've owned and still own several by various makers, including Marlin (336), Winchester (Model 1894) and a Winchester 1892 clone made by Rossi. This last one is and has been my favorite long arm for well over 20 years. I've got many modern rifles, including AKs, a pair of SKS carbines, a CETME 58, Enfields, Mausers and many others. Still, the 92 SRS with a 16" barrel, chambered in .357 Magnum is still my choice if I could keep only one. It's been my companion on several week-long wilderness hikes. The perfect pack rifle. When you're 25 to 50 miles from civilization, you need a good rifle with you. Moreover, it needs to be light as you're hauling a lot of weight. Should the need arise, the Rossi is able to bring down most medium to medium large game, including Black Bear. My own hand loads generate about 2,100 fps at the muzzle. At just over 5 lbs loaded, its tube magazine holds 8 rounds, with one additional in the chamber if needed (hammer on the half-cock safety). Slick action, fast pointing and lightweight, I prefer it over my friend's Ruger Gunsite Scout (.308) for wilderness trips. It doesn't have have the power at long range of the Ruger, but it's faster action makes for a very quick follow-up shot. Besides, real men carry Winchesters.. Ask John Wayne!
Anyway, the Henry follows the tradition of high quality, fast shooting lever guns. Outstanding build quality and great accuracy. Henry makes lever guns in a wide variety of calibers, ranging from .17 WMR through the mighty 45-70 cartridge. I think that I'll enjoy years of fun with this little gem...
The Henry is on top, the Rossi 92 SRS below. A native American Sioux did the subdued tack art for me many years ago.. Traditional decoration for the rifles of Sioux warriors.
