Henry Single Shot Shotgun Review: Is This Classic Design Right for You?

Looking for a reliable, simple, and classic shotgun? The Henry Single Shot Shotgun has garnered attention for its straightforward design and robust performance. This in-depth review dives into every facet of this firearm, addressing the key questions potential buyers have: How does it perform in the field? What are its strengths and weaknesses? And is it the right choice for your needs? We’ll explore the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, offering an expert perspective to help you make an informed decision. This isn’t just another product summary; it’s a comprehensive analysis based on simulated field use and expert comparisons.

Understanding the Appeal of Single Shot Shotguns

Single-shot shotguns represent a return to simplicity and a focus on marksmanship. Unlike their multi-shot counterparts, these firearms require deliberate loading and firing for each round. This design philosophy offers distinct advantages, including enhanced safety, reduced weight, and a lower price point. The Henry Single Shot Shotgun embodies these principles, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern manufacturing.

The appeal of a single-shot shotgun extends beyond mere functionality. It’s a tool that connects the user to the history of hunting and shooting sports. It demands patience, precision, and a deep respect for the firearm. For many, it’s a gateway into the world of shooting, offering a safe and controlled learning experience. Others appreciate its lightweight design for extended treks in the field. The Henry Single Shot Shotgun, in particular, has carved out a niche for its quality construction and American-made heritage.

Henry Repeating Arms: A Legacy of American Firearm Manufacturing

Henry Repeating Arms is a name synonymous with American firearm manufacturing. Founded in 1996, the company has quickly established itself as a leader in the industry, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Their lever-action rifles are particularly iconic, but their single-shot shotguns have also gained a devoted following. Henry’s dedication to producing firearms in the United States using high-quality materials sets them apart. This commitment resonates with consumers who value American craftsmanship and reliability.

Henry’s success stems from a blend of traditional manufacturing techniques and modern technology. They meticulously craft each firearm, ensuring that every component meets their exacting standards. This attention to detail translates into a product that is both durable and accurate. Furthermore, Henry’s customer service is widely praised, providing owners with support and assistance whenever needed. This combination of quality and service has solidified Henry’s reputation as a trusted firearm manufacturer.

Key Features of the Henry Single Shot Shotgun

The Henry Single Shot Shotgun boasts several features that contribute to its performance and appeal:

• Break-Action Design: The break-action mechanism is simple, reliable, and easy to operate. It allows for quick loading and unloading, making it ideal for both novice and experienced shooters.
• Steel Receiver: The steel receiver provides exceptional strength and durability, ensuring that the shotgun can withstand years of use. It also adds to the overall weight, which helps to reduce recoil.
• American Walnut Stock: The American walnut stock is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides a comfortable and secure grip. The wood is carefully selected and finished to enhance its natural beauty.
• Fully Rifled Barrel (select models): Some models feature a fully rifled barrel, which enhances accuracy when shooting slugs. This makes the shotgun a versatile option for both hunting and target shooting.
• Transfer Bar Safety: The transfer bar safety prevents the shotgun from firing unless the trigger is fully pulled. This added layer of safety provides peace of mind, especially for new shooters.
• Swivel Studs: The swivel studs allow for easy attachment of a sling, making the shotgun more comfortable to carry in the field.
• Variety of Gauges: Available in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore, catering to different preferences and applications.

Delving Deeper: Feature-by-Feature Analysis

Let’s examine each of these features in more detail:

Break-Action Mechanism: Simplicity and Reliability

The break-action design is the cornerstone of the Henry Single Shot Shotgun. To load, you simply depress the lever, which causes the barrel to pivot downwards, exposing the chamber. Insert a shell, close the action, and you’re ready to fire. Unloading is just as easy. This simplicity translates to exceptional reliability, as there are fewer moving parts that can malfunction. The break-action is also inherently safe, as it visually confirms whether the chamber is loaded or empty. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners who are learning the fundamentals of firearm safety.

Steel Receiver: Built to Last

The steel receiver is the heart of the Henry Single Shot Shotgun. It provides the structural integrity needed to withstand the pressures generated during firing. Steel is significantly stronger and more durable than aluminum or other materials commonly used in shotgun receivers. This ensures that the shotgun will maintain its performance and reliability over years of use. The added weight of the steel receiver also helps to absorb recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable to shoot, especially with heavier loads.

American Walnut Stock: Comfort and Aesthetics

The American walnut stock is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Walnut is a dense, durable hardwood that provides a comfortable and secure grip. The natural grain of the wood adds a touch of elegance to the shotgun. Henry carefully selects and finishes each stock to enhance its beauty and durability. The stock is also ergonomically designed to fit a wide range of shooters, ensuring a comfortable and natural shooting position.

Fully Rifled Barrel: Enhanced Accuracy with Slugs

Select models of the Henry Single Shot Shotgun feature a fully rifled barrel. Rifling consists of spiral grooves cut into the inside of the barrel. These grooves impart a spin on the projectile as it travels down the barrel, which stabilizes it and improves accuracy. A rifled barrel is particularly effective when shooting slugs, which are single projectiles designed for hunting deer and other large game. The rifling ensures that the slug travels straight and true, increasing the shooter’s chances of a successful shot.

Transfer Bar Safety: An Extra Layer of Protection

The transfer bar safety is a crucial safety feature that prevents the shotgun from firing unless the trigger is fully pulled. The transfer bar is a small piece of metal that sits between the hammer and the firing pin. When the trigger is not pulled, the transfer bar is out of alignment, preventing the hammer from striking the firing pin. Only when the trigger is fully pulled does the transfer bar move into alignment, allowing the hammer to strike the firing pin and discharge the shotgun. This prevents accidental discharges, providing an extra layer of safety.

Swivel Studs: Convenient Sling Attachment

The swivel studs allow for easy attachment of a sling. A sling is a strap that attaches to the shotgun and allows the shooter to carry it comfortably over their shoulder. This is particularly useful when hunting or hiking, as it frees up the shooter’s hands. The swivel studs are securely attached to the stock and forend, ensuring that the sling will not detach unexpectedly.

Variety of Gauges: Catering to Different Needs

The Henry Single Shot Shotgun is available in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore. Each gauge offers a different balance of power, recoil, and shot capacity. The 12 gauge is the most powerful and versatile option, suitable for hunting a wide range of game. The 20 gauge offers a good balance of power and recoil, making it a popular choice for smaller shooters. The .410 bore is the least powerful option, but it has very little recoil, making it ideal for beginners and small game hunting.

The Advantages of Choosing a Henry Single Shot Shotgun

The Henry Single Shot Shotgun offers several compelling advantages:

• Simplicity: The simple design makes it easy to learn and operate, ideal for beginners.
• Safety: The break-action and transfer bar safety provide added peace of mind.
• Reliability: The robust construction ensures years of dependable performance.
• Accuracy: The rifled barrel (on select models) enhances accuracy with slugs.
• Lightweight: Easier to carry than multi-shot shotguns, especially on long hunts.
• Affordable: Generally less expensive than comparable multi-shot shotguns.
• American-Made: Proudly manufactured in the United States.

Users consistently report that the Henry Single Shot Shotgun is a reliable and accurate firearm. Its simplicity makes it easy to maintain, and its lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry in the field. Many appreciate the added safety features, particularly the transfer bar safety, which provides peace of mind. The American-made quality is also a major selling point for many consumers.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

While the Henry Single Shot Shotgun offers many advantages, it’s essential to consider its potential drawbacks:

• Single Shot Capacity: Requires manual reloading after each shot, which can be a disadvantage in some hunting situations.
• Recoil: Recoil can be significant, especially with heavier loads in the 12 gauge model.
• Limited Range: Not ideal for long-range shooting, as it is primarily designed for close-range applications.
• Slower Follow-Up Shots: Compared to multi-shot shotguns, follow-up shots are slower due to the need to manually reload.

It’s important to acknowledge that the single-shot design inherently limits the speed of follow-up shots. While the break-action is quick to operate, it still requires manual reloading, which can be a disadvantage in situations where multiple shots are needed in quick succession. The recoil, especially in the 12-gauge model, can also be a factor for some shooters, particularly those who are recoil-sensitive. However, these limitations are often outweighed by the advantages of simplicity, safety, and affordability.

Who is the Henry Single Shot Shotgun Best Suited For?

The Henry Single Shot Shotgun is an excellent choice for:

• Beginner Shooters: The simple design and added safety features make it an ideal learning tool.
• Small Game Hunters: The .410 bore model is perfect for hunting rabbits, squirrels, and other small game.
• Hunters Seeking a Lightweight Option: Its lighter weight makes it easier to carry on long hunts.
• Those on a Budget: It’s generally more affordable than comparable multi-shot shotguns.
• Enthusiasts of Classic Firearms: The timeless design and American-made quality appeal to those who appreciate classic firearms.

This shotgun is particularly well-suited for individuals who prioritize simplicity, safety, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for new shooters who are learning the fundamentals of firearm safety and marksmanship. It’s also a great option for hunters who prefer a lightweight and easy-to-carry shotgun for small game hunting. However, it may not be the best choice for those who require a high-capacity shotgun for hunting larger game or for self-defense purposes.

Alternatives to the Henry Single Shot Shotgun

While the Henry Single Shot Shotgun is a great option, there are other alternatives to consider:

• Stevens 301: A similar single-shot shotgun that offers a more budget-friendly option.
• Mossberg 500: A popular pump-action shotgun that offers greater capacity and versatility.

The Stevens 301 is a comparable single-shot shotgun that offers a similar design and functionality at a lower price point. However, it may not have the same level of quality and craftsmanship as the Henry. The Mossberg 500 is a pump-action shotgun that offers greater capacity and versatility. It’s a good option for those who need a shotgun for hunting larger game or for self-defense purposes.

Expert Opinion: A Reliable and Versatile Single-Shot

The Henry Single Shot Shotgun stands out as a well-built, reliable, and versatile firearm. Its simple design, combined with its robust construction, makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced shooters. While its single-shot capacity may not be ideal for all situations, its advantages in terms of safety, affordability, and portability make it a compelling option. For those seeking a classic American-made shotgun that embodies simplicity and reliability, the Henry Single Shot Shotgun is an excellent choice.

Final Thoughts on the Henry Single Shot

The Henry Single Shot Shotgun represents a blend of classic design and modern manufacturing, offering a unique shooting experience. Its simplicity, reliability, and American-made quality make it a compelling option for a variety of users. Whether you’re a new shooter looking for a safe and easy-to-learn firearm or an experienced hunter seeking a lightweight and portable option, the Henry Single Shot Shotgun is worth considering. Share your experiences with the Henry Single Shot Shotgun in the comments below and let us know what you think.