The Henry Golden Boy lever-action rifle has earned a loyal following for its classic design, smooth action, and versatility. But with several calibers available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide explores the most popular Henry Golden Boy calibers, helping you select the perfect firearm for your needs. We'll delve into each caliber's ballistics, intended uses, and overall suitability for various shooting disciplines.
Popular Henry Golden Boy Calibers: A Detailed Look
The Henry Golden Boy is offered in a range of calibers, each designed for specific applications. Let's examine some of the most prevalent options:
22 Long Rifle (.22 LR)
The .22 LR is arguably the most popular caliber for the Henry Golden Boy. Its low recoil, affordability, and impressive accuracy make it ideal for plinking, small game hunting (squirrels, rabbits), and target shooting. The vast availability of ammunition also adds to its appeal. This is a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a fun, economical round.
22 Magnum (.22 WMR)
Stepping up in power, the .22 WMR (also known as .22 Magnum) delivers significantly more stopping power than the .22 LR. While still relatively low in recoil, the .22 WMR is more effective for hunting slightly larger game, such as prairie dogs or even some varmints. Its increased velocity and flatter trajectory also make it suitable for longer-range shooting.
17 HMR (.17 HMR)
The .17 HMR is a high-velocity rimfire cartridge known for its accuracy and flat trajectory. It’s a favorite among varmint hunters, excelling at taking down smaller pests. The .17 HMR offers superior range and penetration compared to the .22 LR, but with slightly higher recoil.
Other Calibers
While less common, Henry Golden Boy rifles may sometimes be found in other calibers. These can include, but are not limited to, larger centerfire cartridges, depending on production runs and special editions. However, the .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR consistently represent the most readily available and popular options.
Choosing the Right Caliber: Factors to Consider
Selecting the optimal Henry Golden Boy caliber hinges on several crucial factors:
Intended Use
- Plinking/Target Shooting: The .22 LR is the undisputed champion, offering affordability and low recoil.
- Small Game Hunting: The .22 LR is suitable for smaller game, while the .22 WMR offers increased stopping power for slightly larger targets.
- Varmint Hunting: The .17 HMR shines in this category, providing exceptional accuracy and range.
Recoil Sensitivity
The .22 LR exhibits the lowest recoil, making it ideal for beginners or those sensitive to recoil. The .22 WMR has noticeably more recoil, while the .17 HMR presents slightly more than the .22 WMR, but all remain manageable.
Ammunition Availability & Cost
.22 LR ammunition is widely available and relatively inexpensive. .22 WMR and .17 HMR are also available but may be slightly more costly.
Range
For longer-range shooting, the .17 HMR's flat trajectory is advantageous. The .22 WMR also offers improved range over the .22 LR.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Henry Golden Boy
The Henry Golden Boy rifle offers a fantastic platform in various calibers. By carefully considering your intended use, recoil sensitivity, ammunition cost, and desired range, you can confidently select the perfect Henry Golden Boy caliber to meet your individual shooting needs. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and adhere to all local regulations.
