Thick timber and a short rifle go together, and the Henry Protector Carbine fits right in. It is chambered in .30-30 Winchester with a 16.5-inch barrel, a four-round magazine, and a walnut stock.

Short barrels get through brush without catching, come up quickly in a stand, and ride easily in a truck. The .30-30 is the classic whitetail cartridge, easy on the shoulder and widely available. With a four-round capacity, the carbine keeps within the limits of many hunting regulations.

For a hunter who walks a lot, the lightweight frame and short length cut fatigue. For a rancher who needs a handy rifle for the truck or the barn, the carbine is quick and comfortable. A lever action also lets you follow up swiftly without taking your eye off the target.

Walnut feels better in the hand than plastic, and it looks good in a rack. Wipe the barrel and action after wet hunts and keep the rifle lightly oiled. The carbine ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check is completed there before you take it home.