The Henry Big Boy Brass Large Loop Side Gate .44 Mag 20in is a lever-action sporting rifle that blends old-school style with modern shootability. Chambered for .44 Magnum/.44 Special, it features a 20-inch octagon blued barrel and a polished hardened brass receiver that looks like it just stepped out of a Western. The straight-grip American walnut stock and forearm are finished to perfectly match the brass and blued steel. With a side loading gate and that big loop lever, this rifle is ready for range days, sport shooting, or just admiring in your collection.
| Manufacturer | Henry Repeating Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Big Boy Brass Large Loop Side Gate |
| Material | Polished hardened brass receiver, blued steel barrel, American walnut stock |
| Compatibility | .44 Magnum / .44 Special ammunition |
| Finish | Brass receiver, blued barrel, satin walnut finish |
| Weight | 8.68 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Side Loading Gate: Why it matters: You can top off the magazine without breaking your shooting rhythm — no need to remove the tube or fiddle with a loading port. Just drop rounds in on the fly.
- Large Loop Lever: Why it matters: Gloved hands or cold fingers? No problem. The oversized loop gives you plenty of room to cycle the action fast, especially if you’re running .44 Magnum loads.
- Polished Brass Receiver: Why it matters: That vintage look isn’t just for show — brass is naturally corrosion-resistant and gives the rifle a distinct, head-turning finish that stands out on any rack.
- Octagon Barrel: Why it matters: The 20-inch octagon barrel adds weight up front for steadier off-hand shooting and better heat dissipation during strings of fire. Plus, it looks classic as hell.
- Straight-Grip Walnut Stock: Why it matters: The straight grip keeps your hand in a natural position for fast lever throws, while the American walnut provides a rock-solid foundation with just enough flex to soak up recoil.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for recreational shooters who want a .44 Magnum lever gun that’s as fun to shoot as it is to look at. First-time buyers stepping into a lever action will appreciate the smooth action and easy loading. It’s also a solid pick for collectors who want a piece that mixes heritage with modern conveniences like the side gate.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Beautiful brass receiver, smooth side gate loading, large loop works great with gloves, .44 Mag packs a punch for plinking or hunting, octagon barrel looks and shoots great.
- Cons: The polished brass receiver shows fingerprints and smudges easily — you’ll want to keep a soft cloth handy if you’re particular about shine. Also, the straight grip might feel a bit slim for shooters with larger hands.
Comparison
| Feature | Henry Big Boy Brass Large Loop | Marlin 1894 SBL | Rossi R92 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .44 Mag/.44 Spl | .44 Mag/.44 Spl | .44 Mag/.44 Spl |
| Barrel Length | 20″ octagon | 16.25″ stainless | 20″ round |
| Receiver Material | Polished brass | Stainless steel | Blued steel |
| Stock | Walnut straight grip | Laminate with pistol grip | Hardwood pistol grip |
| Loading | Side gate + tube | Side gate + tube | Side gate only |
| Weight | 8.68 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
| Price | ~$1,017 | ~$1,200 | ~$600 |
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on the Henry Big Boy Brass Large Loop Side Gate .44 Mag 20in?
Per Henry specs, the 20-inch octagon barrel has a 1:20 twist rate, which stabilizes both .44 Magnum and .44 Special loads effectively for typical lever-action distances.
Can I shoot .44 Special through this rifle?
Yes. The Henry Big Boy is chambered for .44 Magnum / .44 Special, so you can safely shoot .44 Special for lighter recoil and cheaper practice. Just make sure to clean the chamber after shooting .44 Special to prevent carbon buildup.
Does the side gate allow loading without removing the magazine tube?
Absolutely. That’s the whole point of the side loading gate — you can drop rounds in one at a time while the tube stays in place. It’s a huge upgrade over older tube-load-only designs.
Is the large loop lever compatible with aftermarket parts?
The large loop is factory-installed and sized for gloved hands. If you’re looking to swap levers, aftermarket options from brands like Ranger Point Precision or Skinner Sights are available, but the factory loop is already optimized for fast cycling.
How does the brass receiver hold up over time?
Brass develops a natural patina with use, which many shooters actually prefer. If you want to keep it shiny, a little brass polish and a microfiber cloth will do the trick. It’s more durable than you’d think — just avoid dropping it on concrete.
Why Buy From Us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
According to industry data, lever-action rifles account for roughly 8% of the total U.S. rifle market, with Henry holding a significant share in the cowboy-action and recreational shooting segment.
Browse more in our Lever Action Rifles or check out Henry Rifles and .44 Magnum Rifles.
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