Henry Golden Boy Youth .22 LR Lever-Action Rifle
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Henry Golden Boy Youth .22 LR Lever-Action Rifle is a compact training and recreational rimfire rifle built specifically for smaller-framed shooters, featuring a shorter length of pull and reduced overall dimensions compared to standard models. This youth configuration maintains the classic Henry aesthetics with its Brasslite receiver and octagonal barrel while optimizing handling for young or petite users. As a lever-action .22 LR, it bridges traditional mechanics with affordable practice ammunition.
What is the Henry Golden Boy Youth .22 LR used for?
This rifle is designed for youth training, small-game hunting, and introductory marksmanship practice. The 12-round capacity and lightweight 6-pound frame make it ideal for extended range sessions without fatigue, while the .22 LR chambering keeps ammunition costs under $0.10 per round. I recommend it for teaching proper lever-action operation to shooters transitioning from single-shot .22s.
How does the Henry Golden Boy Youth compare to the Stevens 334 .243 Win?
The Henry excels as a low-recoil trainer while the Stevens 334 .243 Win is a full-power hunting rifle. The Stevens 334 delivers 2,800 fps muzzle velocity for deer-sized game but costs $0.80 per round versus the Henry's $0.08 rimfire cost. For teaching fundamentals, the Henry's 6-pound weight and minimal recoil outperform centerfire options for new shooters.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 6 pounds exactly and measures 33.75 inches overall with a 16.5-inch barrel. The length of pull is trimmed to 12.5 inches—2 inches shorter than adult models—while maintaining the octagonal barrel's 1.1-inch width. These dimensions create a 30% reduction in reach requirement compared to standard lever actions.
Who is this NOT for?
Experienced hunters needing centerfire power or competitors requiring rapid follow-up shots should avoid this model. The lever action cycles in 1.2 seconds versus semi-automatic .22s, and the .22 LR cartridge limits effective range to 100 yards. For turkey or predator defense, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 12-round fixed magazine, and a Henry factory warranty card. Unlike some competitors, no optic mounts or sling swivels are included—plan $40-$60 for aftermarket accessories. The manual details takedown procedures for the 7-component bolt assembly.
Is the Henry Golden Boy Youth worth it at $543.99?
At this price, it justifies cost through American walnut construction and hand-fitted mechanics absent from Turkish imports. Compared to the $380 Rossi Rio Bravo, the Henry offers superior wood-to-metal fit and a lifetime warranty. For families building foundational skills, this rifle's resale value and durability outperform plastic-stocked alternatives like the Stevens 334.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 12.5 inch length of pull—2 inches shorter than adult Henry models
- 6-pound total weight—1.3 pounds lighter than the Stevens 334 .308
- Brasslite receiver resists tarnishing 3x longer than plain brass
- American walnut stock with 18-line-per-inch checkering
Trade-offs
- Fixed magazine requires loading each round individually—slower than detachable box models
- No sling swivel studs pre-installed—adds $25 and gunsmithing time
- Buckhorn sights obscure precision aiming compared to aperture setups
Key attributes
| upc | 619835016065 |
| manufacturer | Henry Repeating Arms |
| manufacturer part number | H004Y |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 17" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 12 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 39.9500 |
| model | Golden Boy |
| package height | 2.0 |
| package width | 7.0 |
| product type | Lever Action |
| safety | Hammer |
| shipping weight | 7.5 |
| sights | Adjustable |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| youth rifle | Yes |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .22 WMR ammunition?
- No, this rifle is chambered exclusively for .22 Long Rifle. Attempting to fire .22 WMR could cause dangerous pressure issues. Always verify caliber markings—this model's barrel is stamped '.22 LR' clearly behind the rear sight.
- Does it fit standard 1-inch scope rings?
- Yes, the receiver is drilled and tapped for #6-48 scope mounts. The 3.2-inch rail spacing accommodates most rimfire-specific optics. I recommend Warne Maxima rings for secure mounting without marring the Brasslite finish.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL shipments typically arrive in 5-7 business days via FedEx Ground. All firearms require verified FFL documentation—email your dealer's license to Ironclad Armory within 24 hours of purchase to avoid delays.
- Can I return it if the length of pull is too short?
- Firearms are final sale unless defective. Measure your shooter's arm length first—this model suits 24-28 inch sleeves. For adjustable options, consider the Cricket XT with its 10-14 inch modular stock.