Henry SPD Predator Rifle: Precision Varmint and Target Platform for Illinois Shooters

The Henry SPD Predator represents a significant evolution in the lever-action platform, engineered specifically for shooters who demand accuracy, reliability, and versatility in the field. Chambered in the ubiquitous .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO, this rifle bridges the gap between traditional Henry craftsmanship and modern tactical ballistics. Designed for predator hunting, varmint control, and precision target shooting, the Henry SPD Predator delivers consistent sub-MOA performance right out of the box. Whether you are engaging coyotes across an Illinois cornfield or punching paper at a 200-yard range, this rifle provides the flat trajectory and terminal performance required for ethical, effective shooting.

Overview

The Henry SPD Predator is a side-gate loading lever-action rifle built on Henry Repeating Arms proven platform, but with distinct upgrades for long-range precision and rapid follow-up shots. The rifle features a 20-inch stainless steel barrel with a 1:8 twist rate, optimized to stabilize heavier .223 and 5.56 projectiles from 55 to 77 grains. The barrel is threaded 1/2×28 for suppressor or muzzle brake attachment, a critical feature for Illinois shooters who legally own sound suppressors under state law. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounting, and the rifle ships with a factory-installed Picatinny rail for immediate optic installation. The hardwood stock is finished with a textured grip and a ventilated rubber recoil pad, ensuring a secure hold in wet or cold conditions. The Henry SPD Predator weighs approximately 7.5 pounds unloaded, making it a practical choice for all-day carry in the field.

Features & Specs

Every specification on the Henry SPD Predator is selected for functional performance. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion from Illinois humidity and field exposure. The side-gate loading mechanism allows you to top off the magazine without opening the action or removing the tube magazine plug, a distinct advantage when cycling through multiple targets. The trigger is a two-stage design with a crisp, clean break at approximately 4.5 pounds, tested at the factory for consistency.

• Caliber: .223 Remington / 5.56 NATO (chamber accepts both SAAMI-spec cartridges)
• Barrel: 20-inch stainless steel, 1:8 twist, threaded 1/2×28 with factory thread protector
• Capacity: 6 rounds in the tube magazine (plus one in the chamber)
• Sights: Adjustable rear buckhorn sight and brass bead front sight, with factory Picatinny rail included
• Stock: American walnut with satin finish, straight-grip design, and ventilated rubber recoil pad
• Overall length: 38.5 inches; weight: 7.5 pounds

The Henry SPD Predator utilizes a brass elevator and a smooth cycling action that has been hand-fitted and polished at the factory. The lever throw is short and fluid, enabling rapid follow-up shots while maintaining sight alignment. The receiver is machined from solid steel and features a matte nickel finish that reduces glare in bright conditions.

• Action: Lever-action with side-gate loading and removable magazine tube plug
• Trigger: Two-stage adjustable trigger, factory set to 4.5 pounds
• Safety: Half-cock hammer safety with integral transfer bar
• Finish: Stainless steel barrel and receiver; nickel-plated lever and hammer

Who It’s For

The Henry SPD Predator is engineered for the Illinois shooter who requires a rifle that performs across multiple disciplines. It is an ideal choice for predator hunters targeting coyotes and foxes in the open farmlands of central and northern Illinois, where the .223 Remington provides sufficient energy for clean kills at ranges out to 300 yards. The rifle also excels for varmint hunters dealing with groundhogs, prairie dogs, and other small pests, where the 1:8 twist stabilizes lighter frangible rounds for explosive expansion. Target shooters who appreciate the lever-action platform for Cowboy Action, SASS, or informal plinking will find the SPD Predator accurate and satisfying to run. Its stainless steel construction and threaded barrel make it a practical option for Illinois shooters who hunt or train in rain, snow, or mud.

• Predator and varmint hunters requiring flat-shooting, high-velocity cartridges
• Target shooters who want a lever-action capable of sub-MOA accuracy
• Shooters who value stainless steel durability for all-weather field use
• Illinois residents seeking a compliant, non-semiautomatic alternative for high-volume shooting

Shipping & FFL

This Henry SPD Predator rifle is a modern firearm and must be transferred through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer. We ship to all licensed FFL holders in Illinois who are willing to accept transfers from out-of-state retailers. Please confirm with your chosen FFL that they accept shipments from us before placing your order. A valid state-issued Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) card is required for all Illinois residents at the time of transfer. All applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding the purchase and possession of firearms must be followed. The threaded barrel and magazine capacity are compliant with current Illinois state statutes; however, it is your responsibility to verify compliance with any municipal ordinances in your jurisdiction. We ship via UPS Next Day Air or FedEx Priority Overnight to insured FFLs only. A signature is required upon delivery.