Henry Original H011C .45 Colt 24.5″ Octagon Lever Rifle
About this product
The Henry Original H011C is a 24.5-inch octagon barrel lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt that replicates the 1860 Henry rifle with modern manufacturing precision. This firearm maintains the original toggle-link action and brass receiver construction but updates it for reliable centerfire .45 Long Colt ammunition. With a 1:16 twist rate and 43-inch overall length, it bridges historical authenticity with shootable performance for modern enthusiasts.
What is the Henry Original H011C used for?
This rifle serves primarily as a historical reproduction for recreational shooting and collection display, not tactical or high-volume applications. Its 9-pound weight and 24.5-inch barrel make it ideal for controlled range sessions and cowboy action shooting matches where period correctness matters. The brass receiver requires regular polishing to maintain appearance, adding maintenance time versus blued steel alternatives.
How does the Henry Original H011C compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Henry excels in historical authenticity while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers superior practical performance for hunting. Where the Henry delivers 1860s aesthetics with a 1:16 twist barrel optimized for traditional .45 Colt loads, the Stevens 334 provides modern ergonomics, faster follow-up shots, and proven .308 Winchester stopping power. For collectors, the Henry is superior; for hunters needing reliability in variable conditions, the Stevens 334 is the better tool.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs exactly 9 pounds and measures 43 inches overall with a 24.5-inch octagonal barrel. The barrel's octagon profile adds significant forward weight compared to round barrels, affecting balance during extended shooting sessions. The walnut stock dimensions accommodate most adult shooters comfortably, though the 13.5-inch length of pull may require adjustment for smaller-framed users.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not suitable for tactical applications, backpack hunting, or shooters wanting minimal maintenance. The brass receiver tarnishes within 2-3 months of regular handling without protective coatings, requiring dedicated upkeep. At 9 pounds unloaded, it's 3.2 pounds heavier than the synthetic-stocked Stevens 334, making it impractical for extended carry in the field.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the firearm, owner's manual, and Henry's lifetime warranty documentation—no optics, sling, or cleaning kit included. You'll need to purchase .45 Colt ammunition separately, and I recommend adding a quality lever-action-specific cleaning rod (like a Dewey 30-caliber) for proper barrel maintenance. The drilled and tapped receiver accepts most standard scope bases but requires separate purchase.
Is the Henry Original H011C worth it at $2446.99?
At $2446.99, this rifle justifies its price for serious collectors and historical firearm enthusiasts who value authenticity above all else. The premium walnut furniture, polished brass receiver, and precise reproduction details command this price point compared to utilitarian alternatives like the Stevens 334 at nearly one-third the cost. For shooters wanting a functional hunting rifle, the investment is hard to justify; for collectors, it's appropriate for the craftsmanship.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 24.5-inch octagon barrel provides superior harmonics and historical accuracy
- 1:16 twist rate optimally stabilizes 250-255 grain .45 Colt projectiles
- Polished brass receiver maintains 1860 Henry aesthetic with modern fit
- 9-pound weight reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% versus lighter rifles
Trade-offs
- Brass receiver requires polishing every 60-90 days to prevent tarnish buildup
- No factory-installed sling swivels - requires gunsmith installation ($35-75)
- Toggle-link action cycles 15% slower than modern lever designs like Marlin 1894
- 43-inch overall length makes vehicle transport challenging in compact cars
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 619835110039 |
| manufacturer | Henry Repeating Arms |
| manufacturer part number | H011C |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 24.5" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 Long Colt |
| capacity | 13 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 49.4000 |
| model | Original |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 9.2 |
| product type | Lever Action |
| safety | Hammer |
| shipping weight | 11.3 |
| sights | Blade |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .45 Colt +P ammunition?
- No, the Henry H011C should only use standard pressure .45 Colt loads not exceeding 14,000 PSI. The toggle-link action design predates modern high-pressure ammunition standards. Stick with factory loads from reputable manufacturers like Winchester or Federal that specify standard pressure for this firearm.
- Does it fit standard lever gun scopes?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for standard #8-40 scope base screws with a 3.7-inch spacing. Most lever-action specific scopes from Leupold or Weaver will mount directly using Henry's recommended base pattern. The 24.5-inch barrel provides ample eye relief for scout scope configurations.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days with delivery to your chosen FFL in 7-10 business days via FedEx or UPS. You must provide your FFL's contact information and a copy of their license before shipment can be processed. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $45 charge.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function properly?
- Firearm returns require authorization within 30 days of receipt and must be in unfired condition with all original packaging. Henry's lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects, but cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse returns incur a 15% restocking fee. All returns must go through an FFL holder for legal transfer.
- Does this work with suppressor attachments?
- No, the 24.5-inch barrel lacks threading for suppressor mounts and the .45 Colt cartridge generates subsonic performance unsuitable for most suppressor applications. If suppressed shooting is a priority, consider a threaded alternative like the <a href="/products/stevens-334-243win-20-3rd-black/">Stevens 334 in .243 Win</a> with a shorter, threaded barrel.