There is nothing quite like a brass-framed lever rifle in the hands of a kid on a Saturday morning, and the Henry Golden Boy is the one most folks picture. This H004M is chambered in .22 Magnum and carries a 20.5 inch barrel.

The .22 WMR adds range and punch over the .22 LR without adding much recoil. That makes it a good small-game and varmint rifle: rabbits, squirrels, groundhogs and the fox that keeps eyeing your hens. The long barrel gives a steady sight picture and a smooth swing. Take your time loading and unloading until the routine is second nature.

Brass receivers are the Golden Boy's signature. They age well and stay bright when you wipe them down, and the wood stock completes a classic look. Henry's lever work is smooth, and the tube magazine holds a good supply of rounds for a day in the field.

A rifle like this is a keeper. Hand it down to the next shooter and it will still run. It ships to your FFL dealer, who completes the background check before you take possession.