Bronze-colored metalwork sets the Explorer Carbine apart from the typical blued lever gun. Henry pairs the finish with a walnut stock, a 16.5-inch barrel, and a .360 Buckhammer chamber, making it a compact rifle for woods hunting.

The four-round magazine meets the capacity limits found in many hunting seasons, and the short barrel is made for close cover. In a tree stand or ground blind, the carbine stays out of the way. When a deer steps through the brush, it comes up quickly and gives you time to find the sight.

The .360 Buckhammer is a straight-wall cartridge designed with modern lever guns in mind, which helps in states that restrict hunting rifles to straight-wall chambers. Keep in mind that ammunition may not be in stock everywhere, so check the local shelves before the season.

The bronze finish resists wear, but a light wipe with an oiled rag after hunts keeps it in good order. Check the screws and sights now and then. It ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check is completed there before pickup.