The Henry Big Boy Steel Side Gate in .44 Magnum delivers the iconic lever-action experience in a lighter, more modern package — purpose-built for hunters and shooters who demand reliability and refined craftsmanship in the field.
- Weighs 1.68 lbs. less than the brass-framed Big Boy for easier carry
- Side gate loading for fast, convenient top-off without removing cartridges
- Genuine American walnut stock with fine checkering for a secure grip
- Range-adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight and brass bead front sight
- Available with 20" round barrel or compact 16.5" barrel with large-loop lever
- Chambers both .44 Magnum and .44 Special for versatile ammunition options
Who This Is For
The Henry Big Boy Steel Side Gate .44 Mag is ideal for deer hunters, brush country guides, and lever-action enthusiasts who want a lightweight, fast-handling rifle with old-school style and modern upgrades. Whether you're pushing through thick timber or hunting in cold weather with gloves, this carbine delivers the performance and handling you need without sacrificing classic American aesthetics.
Specifications
| Brand | Henry Repeating Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | Big Boy Steel Side Gate |
| Caliber | .44 Magnum / .44 Special |
| Action | Lever Action |
| Barrel Length | 20" (standard) / 16.5" (carbine) |
| Stock | Genuine American Walnut |
| Sights | Semi-Buckhorn Rear / Brass Bead Front |
| Loading | Side Gate & Tubular Magazine |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Category | Lever Action Rifle |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Henry Big Boy Steel Side Gate shoot both .44 Magnum and .44 Special?
Yes. The Big Boy Steel Side Gate is chambered to accept both .44 Magnum and .44 Special cartridges interchangeably, giving you flexibility at the range or in the field. This makes it easy to practice with lighter .44 Special loads and hunt with the full power of .44 Magnum ammunition.
What is the advantage of the side gate loading system?
The side gate allows you to load cartridges directly into the magazine tube through a gate on the side of the receiver — just like classic cowboy-era lever guns. This means you can top off your magazine without removing the rounds already loaded, making it faster and more convenient in the field compared to loading exclusively from the front of the tube.
Which barrel length should I choose — the 20" or the 16.5" carbine?
If you're hunting in dense brush or plan to use the rifle in tight quarters, the 16.5" carbine model with its large-loop lever is a great choice — it's more maneuverable and especially handy for gloved cold-weather use. The 20" standard barrel offers a slightly longer sight radius and can wring a bit more velocity out of your .44 Magnum loads, making it a better fit for open-country hunting or longer-range shooting.