If you’re after a .22 LR that feels like it came straight out of a classic Western but shoots like a modern tack-driver, the Henry Small Game Rifle with its octagon barrel and walnut stock is your huckleberry. This lever-action rimfire is built for practical accuracy on the range and in the field, pairing a crisp Skinner peep sight with a brass bead front for a sight picture that just works. At $498.91, it’s a solid buy for anyone who wants reliable, glove-friendly handling without the fuss.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Henry Repeating Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Small Game Rifle |
| Material | American walnut stock, blued steel receiver and barrel |
| Compatibility | .22 LR (long rifle) ammunition only |
| Finish | Blued steel |
| Weight | Approximately 6.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Octagon Barrel — Why it matters: The 20-inch octagon profile adds heft up front for steadier offhand shots and better heat dissipation during long range sessions. That extra weight soaks up the tiny .22 LR recoil, keeping your sight picture stable.
- American Walnut Stock — Why it matters: Walnut isn’t just pretty—it’s dense and oil-finished, which means it resists moisture and dings better than cheaper woods. The straight-grip design gives you a natural, repeatable hand position for fast follow-ups.
- Large-Loop Lever — Why it matters: That oversize loop lets you work the action with gloved fingers without pinching. For cold-weather squirrel hunts or range days where you’re wearing mitts, it’s a game-saver.
- Skinner Sights — Why it matters: The adjustable peep rear and tall brass bead front give a clear, consistent sight picture. The peep aperture sharpens your focus on the target, and the brass bead catches light for quick acquisition in low-light woods.
- Blued Steel Finish — Why it matters: Bluing isn’t flashy, but it’s tough. It resists rust and scratches better than painted finishes, and it’s easy to touch up if you do ding it in the field.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for recreational shooters who want a lever-action that’s fun to plink with but accurate enough for small game like squirrels and rabbits. First-time buyers will appreciate the simple, safe lever action and the forgiving .22 LR recoil. If you’re a hunter who prefers iron sights and a classic feel, you’ll love the Skinner peep setup—no batteries, no clutter, just hits.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Smooth lever action, excellent Skinner sights, classic walnut and blued steel look, large loop works with gloves, accurate out of the box.
- Cons: The octagon barrel makes it a bit front-heavy compared to round-barrel .22s. If you’re used to a super light squirrel rifle, this one takes a little getting used to for offhand shooting.
Comparison: Henry Small Game Rifle vs. Competitors
| Feature | Henry Small Game Rifle | Zev Technologies Z22 (Lever Action) | Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf 22 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel | 20-inch octagon, blued | 18-inch round, stainless | 16.5-inch round, blued |
| Stock | American walnut | Laminate synthetic | Hardwood |
| Sights | Skinner peep + brass bead | Fiber optic front, no rear | Open notch + blade |
| Weight | ~6.5 lbs | ~5.8 lbs | ~5.2 lbs |
| Price | $498.91 | $549.99 | $429.99 |
| Best For | Traditional feel, precision iron sights | Lightweight, weather-resistant | Budget-friendly, lightweight |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Henry Small Game Rifle accurate for hunting?
Yes. The octagon barrel adds stability, and the Skinner peep sight lets you dial in elevation and windage. With quality .22 LR ammunition, you can expect 1.5-inch groups at 50 yards, which is plenty for small game like squirrels and rabbits.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, but the Skinner sights are so good that most shooters keep them on. If you want a scope, you’ll need to buy a separate rail. The iron sights sit low enough that a low-power scope (like a 2-7x) works well.
Does the large-loop lever work with small hands?
Yes. The loop is oversized for gloved use, but it’s still easy to reach with bare hands. Kids and shooters with smaller hands can work the lever without stretching.
What kind of warranty does Henry offer?
Henry backs their rifles with a lifetime warranty. If something breaks due to manufacturing defects, they’ll fix or replace it. According to Henry specs, the warranty covers the original owner.
Is this rifle legal in all states?
Since it’s a lever-action .22 LR, it’s legal in all 50 states, including those with magazine capacity restrictions. Check local hunting regs for small game seasons.
Trust & Delivery
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Looking for more lever-action options? Check out our Lever Action Rifles and .22 LR Rifles categories.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.